New Taipei City
New Taipei City, surrounding the capital Taipei, offers a fascinating mix of historical charm, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural traditions. From mountain villages to coastal wonders, this region invites visitors to step into Taiwan’s past while enjoying its stunning natural beauty. Each destination tells a unique story, making New Taipei City an unmissable travel experience.
01
Jiufen（九份）
Perched on the hills of northeastern Taiwan, Jiufen is a nostalgic town famous for its winding alleyways, red lantern-lit teahouses, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Its old street, lined with food stalls and souvenir shops, was a filming location for many Taiwanese movies and is said to have inspired the aesthetics of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. Visitors must not leave without trying its iconic taro ball dessert, a sweet and chewy treat that perfectly captures Jiufen’s traditional flavors.
02
Shifen（十分）
Nestled in the lush mountains, Shifen is best known for its railway street and sky lantern tradition. Visitors write their wishes on colorful lanterns before releasing them into the sky, carrying their hopes and dreams with them. Just a short walk from the bustling street is Jing’an Bridge（靜安橋）, a peaceful suspension bridge that offers a stunning view of the surrounding greenery and the gentle river below.
03
Golden Waterfall（黃金瀑布）
One of Taiwan’s most unique natural wonders, Golden Waterfall cascades down a hillside with a striking golden hue. The color comes from the heavy mineral deposits in the area, a remnant of the region’s mining history. The contrast between the golden water and the lush green surroundings makes it a mesmerizing sight for visitors.
04
Remains of the Thirteen Levels & Yin-Yang Sea
（十三層遺址 &陰陽海）
Standing as a ghostly reminder of Taiwan’s once-booming mining industry, the Remains of the Thirteen Levels（十三層遺址） was once the largest copper refinery in Northeast Asia. Now abandoned and covered in moss, this colossal structure tells the story of Taiwan’s industrial past. Just in front of it lies the Yin-Yang Sea（陰陽海）, where a striking mix of golden-brown and deep blue waters meet due to the natural oxidation of minerals from the nearby mountains, creating a surreal coastal scene.
05
Shen’ao Fishing Harbor（深澳漁港）
For seafood lovers, Shen’ao Fishing Harbor is a hidden gem known for its fresh-off-the-boat seafood. One of its must-try local dishes is small squid vermicelli（小捲米粉）, made with freshly caught squid, delicate rice noodles, and a flavorful broth. The harbor itself is a charming spot to watch fishermen bring in their daily catch while enjoying a delicious, authentic meal.
06
Yehliu Geopark（野柳地質公園）
Shaped by the forces of wind and sea, Yehliu Geopark is a natural wonder featuring unique rock formations sculpted over thousands of years. The most famous of these is the Queen’s Head（女王頭）, a rock resembling a queen’s profile, but many other formations like the Mushroom Rocks and Honeycomb Rocks add to the park’s surreal beauty. Walking along the coastal paths, visitors can marvel at the incredible work of nature while feeling the ocean breeze.
07
Tamsui（淡水）
At the mouth of the Tamsui River, Tamsui（淡水） is a beloved spot to watch breathtaking sunsets over the water. This charming town blends history with modern leisure, featuring old forts, riverside cafés, and lively markets. A visit is incomplete without trying A-gei（阿給）, a local specialty of stuffed tofu filled with glass noodles and sealed with fish paste, offering a unique taste of Tamsui’s food culture.
Another historical gem in Tamsui is Fort San Domingo（紅毛城）, a well-preserved fortress built by the Spanish in 1629 and later occupied by the Dutch, the Qing Dynasty, and the British. This red-brick structure offers stunning views of the river while telling the story of Taiwan’s colonial past through its architecture and exhibitions. Walking through Fort San Domingo（紅毛城）, visitors can explore Taiwan’s multi-layered history and appreciate its strategic significance in maritime trade.
New Taipei City is a place where history, nature, and culture intertwine, offering something for every traveler. From the nostalgic streets of Jiufen and Shifen to the dramatic landscapes of Golden Waterfall and Yehliu, every corner of this region tells a story. Whether you're indulging in fresh seafood at Shen’ao Fishing Harbor or watching the sunset in Tamsui, a journey through New Taipei City is a journey through the heart of Taiwan’s beauty and heritage.