Capture smiling platforms and watch master blacksmiths at work – the Ping-Shuang mini-trip has a wonderfully retro vibe

▲ The classic-looking Cai Family Western-style House near Lingjiao Station. (Photo / Provided by New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau, the same below)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong / Taipei

During the May holiday period, many families are pondering where to go for a getaway. The New Taipei City Government’s Tourism and Travel Bureau recommends taking a “Ping-Shuang Mini-Trip” to Pingxi and Shuangxi during this cool and pleasant time of year.

As a water conservation area, Shuangxi boasts fresh air and retains the rare natural pastoral scenery and simple local charm of the Greater Taipei region. Since the opening of the Jifu Highway, the once lesser-known Shuangxi has become more accessible.

In the mountain town of Shuangxi, visitors can not only exploreShuangxi Stationbut also visit theLin Yihe Hallpharmacy, built in 1874, where they can admire the classic late Qing-era Western-style building and sample traditional treats like Eight Immortals Fruit, herbal-flavored olives, and plum juice. Century-old brands such asLian Caiyuan Pastry ShopandHaishan Pastry Shopare also great choices for souvenirs. For those wanting to experience the atmosphere of an early agricultural society, the old street’sShuangxi Blacksmith Shopoffers a glimpse of master blacksmiths hard at work.

▲ Shuangxi Blacksmith Shop, which still produces ironware today.

For travelers who enjoy coffee and afternoon tea, the New Taipei City Tourism and Travel Bureau also recommends nearby spots likeSillou Cafe,Pinglin Leisure Farm,Yayuan Glass Coffee House,all perfect for relaxing and enjoying a holiday.Ya Yuan Glass Coffee HouseThe hot-air balloon culture–famous Pingxi actually has many quiet towns worth visiting. In addition to using the Pingxi Branch Line to travel between the peaceful little stations of Lingjiao and Wanggu, visitors can also embark on walking tours via mountain trails. In Wanggu, travelers can see classic old brick houses, view the remnants of the

Pingxi, known for its sky lantern culture, actually has many tranquil towns nearby that are worth visiting. In addition to using the Pingxi Branch Line to travel between the peaceful little stations of Lingjiao and Wanggu, visitors can also embark on a walking journey via hiking trails. In Wanggu, you can see quaint old brick houses and admire those built in 1967.Qinghe Suspension Bridgebuilt in 1967, or hike along the Waterfall-Viewing Ancient Trail to admire theWanggu Waterfall Group, immersing themselves in a naturally quaint outdoor setting.

▲ The scenic and naturally comfortable Wanggu Waterfall.

After entering Lingjiao, visitors can stroll along the tranquil Lingjiao Old Street and also head tothe Coal Storage Site Ruins,Dalu Driveway,Lingjiao Ancient Bridge,Cai Family Western-Style Houseand other sites to enjoy the rustic charm steeped in history.Lingjiao Railway Stationis the only station on the Pingxi Branch Line featuring a 108-degree curved platform, resembling a smiling face, hence nicknamed the “Smiling Curve Platform.” Visitors can capture this adorable smiling platform as a joyful memory.

▲ Lingjiao Railway Station with its 108-degree curved, smile-like platform.

Information on the PingShuang Mini Tour
Shuangxi Station
Address: No. 1, Chaoyang Street, Xinqi Li, Shuangxi District, New Taipei City

Lin Yihe Hall Pharmacy
Address: No. 3, Chang’an Street, Shuangxi District, New Taipei City

Shuangxi Blacksmith Shop
Address: No. 7, Zhonghua Road, Shuangxi District, New Taipei City

Pinglin Leisure Farm
Address: No. 35, Waipinglin, Pinglin Li, Shuangxi District, New Taipei City

Wanggu Station
Address: Wanggu Li, Pingxi District, New Taipei City

Lingjiao Station
Address: No. 22, Lingjiao Street, Lingjiao Li, Pingxi District, New Taipei City

Cai Family Western-Style House
Address: Lingjiao Li, Pingxi District, New Taipei City