Shrinking Ruins of the Thames River & Canal Scenic Area with a Seaside Horizon

By MOOK Travel’s Christopher, compiled and reported

The world-famous Thames River in England is a long and magnificent waterway that winds through cities, offering stunning views. Taiwan also boasts similarly beautiful canal scenery. Located in Xiangshan District, Hsinchu, the Gangnan Coastal Scenic Area features a section called the Gangnan Canal, which flows from Gangnan to Jincheng Lake. The area offers picturesque scenery along the way, and whether you visit during the day or at night, you can admire the dazzling light displays on both sides of the canal and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

The Gangnan Coastal Scenic Area was originally a seaside bathing beach, but after its closure, it transformed into a multifunctional leisure destination. The Gangnan Canal runs from north to south through the scenic area, closely bordering various facilities on its eastern side and adjacent to a sightseeing bicycle path on its western side. There are also four Chinese-style arched bridges spanning the canal, adding an elegant charm to the waterway’s landscape. Additionally, visitors can enjoy distant views of the Hsinchu City Environmental Protection Bureau building and the coastal seascape. Thanks to its well-developed facilities, the scenic area is the most suitable spot among the Eight Scenic Spots by the Sea for hosting various group activities.