Escape to the mountains’ natural air-conditioning: 4 “hidden waterfall spots in New Taipei City”

▲ The serene natural surroundings of Wanggu Waterfall are utterly captivating (Photo / netizen)yu_81121(Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

By Peng Huaiyu / Reported and compiled

As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, many people dread the hot, humid summer—but fortunately, Taiwan’s convenient transport means numerous natural wonders are just an hour’s drive from the city. ETtoday EBC has rounded up four waterfall and stream hideaways in New Taipei City where you can temporarily escape the scorching heat, hide away in nature’s natural air-conditioned studio, and snap some atmospheric photos. It’s truly a delightful experience!

▲ Exploring Wanggu Waterfall feels like becoming a fairy, with one atmospheric photo after another (Photo / netizen)ruru1419(Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

1. Wanggu Waterfall
“Wanggu Waterfall” is located not far from Wanggu Station. The white cascade pouring down from the rocky cliff complements the emerald-green pool below, with crystal-clear waters that don’t require a trip all the way to Mugu Muyu to enjoy such beauty.

On a clear day, you can even see sunlight streaming through the stream onto the water’s surface, set against a backdrop of mountain ridges—like a traditional Chinese landscape painting. Netizens say it makes you feel like an instant hermit or fairy, with one atmospheric photo after another. You can also visit the former coal-mining town of Lingjiao Station and the historic remnants of Qinghe Suspension Bridge for a short excursion filled with both cultural and natural highlights.

Location: No. 26, Qinghe Bridge, Pingxi District, New Taipei City (next to Wanggu Station)

▲ Golden rays illuminate the riverbed, creating a dreamy glow (Photo / netizen)a123720(Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

2. Longquan Stream
Located in Tucheng, “Longquan Stream” is said to be the best spot for photographers to capture “stream-side slanted sunlight.” Lush green forests and murmuring streams weave together a picturesque scene reminiscent of an oil painting. Sunlight filtered through leaves showers the riverbed in golden rays, creating a dreamy halo, which, along with the surrounding mist and moisture, appears like a scene from a fairyland—even those unfamiliar with photography can take in the moment with their eyes.

The next time this spectacle can be seen is mid-to-late August, and it’s recommended to arrive before 7 AM, preferably after rain the previous day.

Location: Longquan Road, Tucheng District, New Taipei City, near utility poles numbered 82058–82060. The path leading downhill is near the bridge—be cautious as the road is very narrow.

▲ “Galaxy Cave” Waterfall continuously drips like a beaded curtain (Photo / netizen)guangzhi(Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

3. Galaxy Cave Waterfall
Situated halfway up the mountain at the border of Xindian and Muzha, at an altitude of 240 meters, “Galaxy Cave” Waterfall has a drop of 40 meters. Fed by the Meiziliao Stream upstream, its waterfall continuously cascades like a beaded curtain year-round. Visiting in spring or summer offers a refreshing, cooling sensation—as if you’ve entered a hidden paradise.

Discovered in the first year of the Republic of China, Galaxy Cave Waterfall is not only great for sightseeing but also boasts sweet-tasting spring water that’s safe to drink and reportedly perfect for brewing tea. Strolling through the forest filled with negative ions feels like visiting a spiritually enriching fairyland—an incredibly rewarding slow-travel journey along an ancient trail.

Location: Approximately 14.5 km along the Xinyi Highway in Xindian, on the mountainside

▲ Yunshen Waterfall. (Photo / Reporter Peng Huaiyu)

4. Yunshen Waterfall
“Yunshen Waterfall” in Xiongkong, Sanxia, New Taipei City, served as the filming location for Cheer Chen’s ad for Senka Medicated Skincare Tea in 2011. Less famous than Man Yue Yuan, it lets you avoid the crowds and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the mountains—a hidden gem recommended among waterfall enthusiasts as a summer retreat.

Plentiful waters cascade down from above into a crystal-clear pool. Close up, the mist from the waterfall greets you with cool, refreshing relief, while the sound of the rushing waters adds to the experience, naturally drawing you into a meditative state within this treasure trove of nature.

Location: Yunshen Waterfall, Sanxia District, New Taipei City
Notes: The trail is narrow and lacks guardrails—stay alert and watch out for falling rocks. Additionally, the service road leading to the waterfall is very narrow with difficult passing, so it’s best to avoid visiting on holidays.