When you think of traveling to Taiwan, the vibrant capital, Taipei, often comes to mind. But just beyond the city limits lies a region of incredible diversity and beauty: New Taipei City.

For the seasoned traveler who has explored many corners of the globe, New Taipei offers a captivating blend of rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural experiences that feel both authentic and wonderfully surprising.

This guide is for you, the travel lover who seeks more than just the usual tourist spots.

We’ll journey through the winding alleys of Jiufen, feel the spray of the Shifen Waterfall, marvel at the otherworldly rock formations of Yehliu, and soak in the history of Tamsui.

Forget a rushed day trip; New Taipei City is a destination in its own right, deserving of your time and curiosity.

Let’s explore the wonders that await.

A Step Back in Time: The Scene of Jiufen Old Street

Prepare to be enchanted by Jiufen Old Street, a maze of narrow cobblestone lanes, red lanterns, and traditional teahouses clinging to a steep mountainside.

Once a prosperous gold mining town, Jiufen’s glory faded, leaving behind a nostalgic, atmospheric village that seems frozen in time.

As you wander through the bustling main alley, you’ll be greeted by the smells of delicious street food.

Be sure to try the taro ball soup, a local specialty that is both comforting and delicious.

Find a seat at the iconic A-Mei Tea House, sip on a cup of high-mountain oolong tea, and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Shifen Waterfall and the Pingxi Line

For a truly unforgettable experience, head to the Pingxi district, most famous for Shifen Old Street.

What makes this place so unique is that the railway track runs directly through the center of the village.

You can browse for souvenirs and snacks on either side of the track, only to be gently ushered aside when a train slowly rumbles through.

It’s a charmingly chaotic and incredibly photogenic scene.

A short walk from the old street will also lead you to the majestic Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Little Niagara of Taiwan.”

The powerful cascade and the lush green surroundings make it a refreshing and picturesque stop.

Nature’s Art Gallery: Yehliu Geopark

Along the northern coast, you’ll find Yehliu Geopark, a stunning landscape that feels like it belongs on another planet.

Over millions of years, the wind and sea have sculpted the sedimentary rocks into a variety of fascinating shapes.

The park is filled with “hoodoo stones,” which are mushroom-like formations, each with its own unique character.

The most famous formation is the Queen’s Head rock, which, from a certain angle, bears a striking resemblance to the profile of Queen Elizabeth.

Due to natural erosion, the “neck” of the queen is getting thinner each year, making a visit to see this natural wonder a timely experience.

Other interesting formations include the “Fairy Shoe,” “Candle Rocks,” and “Sea Candles.”

Walking through the park is like strolling through an open-air art gallery curated by nature itself.

It’s a testament to the power and beauty of the natural world.

Riverside Romance and History: Tamsui (Danshui)

For a more relaxed and romantic atmosphere, the riverside district of Tamsui is the perfect destination.

Located at the mouth of the Tamsui River, this charming port town is famous for its stunning sunsets, historic architecture, and lively waterfront.

Stroll along the boardwalk, rent a bicycle, or take a ferry across the river to Bali Left Bank for a different perspective.

Tamsui is rich in history, having been occupied by the Spanish, Dutch, and Japanese.

You can explore this past at Fort San Domingo, a well-preserved fortress with striking red brick walls.

Don’t forget to wander through Tamsui Old Street, where you can sample local delicacies like “iron eggs” (eggs stewed in soy sauce) and “ah-gei” (fried tofu stuffed with glass noodles).

As evening approaches, find a spot along the waterfront, grab a snack, and watch as the sun paints the sky in brilliant colors over the Taiwan Strait.

Practical Guide to Your New Taipei City Adventure

To help you plan your trip, here is some practical information, from getting around to where to stay and what to eat.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit New Taipei City is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

During these months, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower chances of rain, making it ideal for exploring both the coastal and mountainous areas.

Summer can be hot and humid with occasional typhoons, while winter is generally cool and can be rainy, especially in the northern coastal regions.

Arriving in Taiwan

From Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): As the main international gateway, TPE is well-connected.

The most convenient way to get to New Taipei City is by taking the Airport MRT.

The Express Train takes you to Taipei Main Station, from where you can easily transfer to the Taipei Metro (MRT) Blue Line or other bus/train services that connect to various districts of New Taipei City.

Taxis and pre-booked car services are also readily available.

From Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA): Located in the heart of Taipei City, Songshan Airport serves mostly domestic flights and some regional international flights.

From here, you can directly access the Taipei Metro (Brown Line) and connect to other lines to reach New Taipei City.

For example, you can take the Brown Line to Zhongxiao Fuxing Station and transfer to the Blue Line towards Banqiao or Dingpu.

Recommended Hotels

While many of these hotels are technically in Taipei City, their prime locations offer excellent access to the transportation networks leading to New Taipei’s attractions.

(Note: Costs are general estimates and can vary greatly by season and booking in advance.)

Grand HiLai Taipei: A new luxury landmark offering exquisite dining and elegant rooms.

• URL: grand-hilai.com.twTEL: +886-2-2788-6868Cost: Luxury ($$$$$)

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei: World-renowned for its opulent style and impeccable service.

• URL: mandarinoriental.com/taipeiTEL: +886 2 2715 6888Cost: Luxury ($$$$$)

Regent Taipei: A classic luxury hotel with a fantastic location and a wide array of amenities.

• URL: ihg.com/regent/hotels/us/en/taipeiTEL: +886 2 2523 8000Cost: Luxury ($$$$)

Hotel Royal Beitou: Located in the Beitou hot spring district, perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay.

• URL: hotelroyal.com.tw/beitouTEL: +886-2-2896-9777Cost: Upper Mid-Range ($$$)

Top 5 Attractions in New Taipei City

Jiufen Old Street: Jiufen is a scenic former gold mining town perched on a mountain in northern Taiwan, famous for its atmospheric Old Street.

Its narrow, winding alleys are packed with traditional tea houses and food stalls, becoming especially beautiful when the red lanterns are lit at night.

It’s a very popular day trip from Taipei, offering charming historical architecture and stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.

Shifen Old Street & Waterfall: Shifen Waterfall, located in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, Taiwan, is often called “Taiwan’s Niagara Falls” due to its powerful, horseshoe shape.

It’s the widest waterfall in Taiwan, dropping from a height of about 20 meters.

The area around the falls is easily accessible and a popular tourist destination for its scenic beauty.

Yehliu Geopark: Yehliu Geopark is a surreal cape on Taiwan’s North Coast, famous for its unique rock formations.

Years of sea erosion and weathering have sculpted hoodoo stones with imaginative names like the iconic Queen’s Head and Fairy Shoe.

It’s a world-renowned natural wonder that feels like walking on an alien or Mars-like landscape.

Tamsui (Danshui): Tamsui is a popular coastal district near Taipei, famed for its breathtaking riverside sunsets over the Taiwan Strait.

Visitors flock to the Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf and Lover’s Bridge for the most spectacular views as the sun dips below the horizon.

The twilight hues perfectly complement the historical sites and lively atmosphere of the adjacent Old Street.

Wulai District: Wulai District is a mountain indigenous district near Taipei, famous for its clear, odorless hot springs and beautiful mountain scenery.

It is home to the Atayal tribe, and its Old Street features local aboriginal cuisine (like wild boar and bamboo rice) and crafts.

Attractions include the stunning Wulai Waterfall, a scenic forest railway, and hot spring resorts for a relaxing day trip.

A must-try local delicacy

Jiufen Taro Balls (Jiufen): Find any of the famous stalls serving this chewy, sweet dessert soup.

Tamsui Old Street Stalls (Tamsui): Graze on various snacks like grilled squid, iron eggs, and fish ball soup.

Din Tai Fung (Various Locations): While a chain, its world-famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) are a must-eat. Several branches are in or near New Taipei City.

Local Seafood Restaurants (near Yehliu/North Coast): Visit any of the local eateries near the coast for incredibly fresh, simply prepared seafood.

Top 4 Activities to Do in New Taipei City

1. Hike the Teapot Mountain Trail: Near Jiufen, this hike offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.
2. Ride the Pingxi Branch Rail Line: A scenic, nostalgic train journey that connects several charming small towns.
3. Watch the Sunset in Tamsui: Stroll the waterfront or take a ferry and enjoy one of Taiwan’s most famous sunset views.
4. Explore a Night Market: Visit one of New Taipei’s bustling night markets, like Nanya Night Market in Banqiao, for a feast of local flavors.

Official Information

• New Taipei City Travel: https://newtaipei.travel/en
• Taoyuan International Airport: https://www.taoyuan-airport.com/

Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits

New Taipei City is a destination that constantly unfolds, revealing new layers of beauty and history with every visit.

From the lantern-lit alleys of Jiufen to the powerful waterfalls of Shifen and the artistic coastline of Yehliu, it offers a travel experience that is rich, diverse, and deeply memorable.

It’s a place that reminds us that sometimes the greatest treasures are found just beyond the well-trodden path.

For the discerning traveler, New Taipei is not just a side trip; it’s an essential and rewarding part of any journey to Taiwan.

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