New Taipei City Travel

Ancient Kyoto-style century-old temple is hidden in Xizhi?! Gongbei Temple in Xizhi is well-known for maple appreciation during fall. Besides the beautiful maples’ red, Gongbei Temple that was built in 1906 is now more than a century old, and the stone-paved double arch bridge outside the Temple is equally classic and elegant. Paradise does not end here, following Xiwan Road and continue into the woods, there hides a lake surrounded by the mountains – it is Xinshan Dream Lake! The name “Dream Lake” originates from the frequent foggy sight during winter, which gives it a misty and fantastical ambiance, making it a popular attraction for many newlyweds’ wedding photo shoot! Following the hiking trail up into Xinshan and having a bird’s-eye view of Dream Lake, tourists will feel the tranquility and be freshened up from the summer heat. On the return trip back to downtown Xizhi, visitors are recommended to visit Xizhi Old Street on their way home. It is where Xizhi began its development and where many historic sites have been preserved. In this neighborhood, there are the old Babao Glass Noodle shop of more than 30 years and the legendary 6-decade-old savory porridge shop; and the evening market by the train station offers a wide array of hearty tasty eats. As the sky grows dark, the twinkling star lights over the Keelung River, and the winding S-shaped Starlight Bridge also shines like the stars in a galaxy after it is lit up at night. There is no better ending for your day as you take a walk after enjoying the street eats while enjoying the starry light!

Traditional long street houses can still be seen here, each house mainly in the form of the classic two-storey building, where the ground floor generally has a variety of stores. Some are even Japanese Ruling Era style fabric stores and dessert ice stores. Each alley can see trains passing by, the most distinguishing characteristic of Pingxi Old Street. Pingxi Old Street is filled with a classic Japanese atmosphere, and the Chinese and English road signs are also have Japanese characters, making one feel as if they were in Japan. You can explore the area to find the architectures filled with most human touch and ancient ambience amongst the old street and alleys. You can also wander freely to watch the trains passing by the bridge above your head, or take a break at nearby B&B before renting a bicycle to set out on a leisurely tour. You must further climb up the nearby Xiaozi Mountain (Filial Mountain), as its lush green mountain forest sceneries will certainly add more wonderful memories to your Pingxi tour.