Bajili Ecological Wonderland: Cycle Through Mangroves, Spot Water Spinach Trees & Admire Beautiful Migratory Birds

Winter Travel Fun: Bajili Boasts Rich and Diverse Ecology! Combining outdoor activities with natural ecological environments is a new trend in travel today! Bajili District’s Wazihwei Nature Reserve, abundant in ecological resources, has become a popular spot for environmental education and eco-tourism in recent years. Its high biodiversity allows visitors to observe a wide variety of species all year round, such as mangrove trees (Kandelia obovata), fiddler crabs, mudskippers, and various resident and migratory birds. The area features cycling paths, wooden boardwalks, and bird-watching pavilions along the coast, making it convenient for the public to explore on their own. Visitors are also welcome to book professional ecological guided tours through the Agriculture Bureau and discover nature’s secrets with family and friends!

Kandelia obovata trees at Wazihwei, Bajili. (Provided by New Taipei City Agriculture Bureau)

The Wazihwei Nature Reserve in Bajili District, New Taipei City, is a flat tidal estuarine ecosystem covering 30 hectares. Located at the last bend of the Tamsui River, its unique “oyster pond” (o_ lake) terrain has earned it the name “Wazihwei” (meaning “tail of the bend”). Thanks to daily tidal movements, the area is rich in organic matter, creating a highly productive wetland ecosystem.

In 1994 (the 83rd year of the Republic of China), the Council of Agriculture designated this area as the “Wazihwei Nature Reserve” under the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act. The main conservation targets are the Kandelia obovata trees and the associated flora and fauna. The Kandelia obovata is the most valuable plant resource in the reserve, with significant research value. Other biological resources include drought- and salt-tolerant plants such as reeds, hibiscus tiliaceus, and Pandanus odorifer, as well as animals like birds, crabs, fish, and benthic organisms. Among the birds, there is a rich diversity of resident birds, migratory birds, and wintering birds, including protected species such as the Chinese egret, osprey, and black-winged kite. These attract many professionals to come specifically for birdwatching every year.

Volunteer-guided tour. (Provided by New Taipei City Agriculture Bureau)

The viewing platform at the top of the oyster pond at Wazihwei offers an excellent vantage point to admire the scenery at the mouth of the Tamsui River. The surrounding riverbank roads within the reserve also feature wooden boardwalks designed for separate pedestrian and cycling paths, allowing visitors to freely choose how to explore. Whether cycling or strolling, everyone can safely enjoy the area. Along the way, there are not only educational signs but also multiple bird-watching pavilions where visitors can rest and observe birds. For those seeking a deeper eco-tourism experience and professional interpretation, volunteer-guided services can be requested through the Agriculture Bureau.

The Agriculture Bureau stated that recent surveys and monitoring within the reserve have shown that the Wazihwei Nature Reserve has a stable ecological environment and high biodiversity. Although the area experienced fallen mangroves due to typhoons in the previous year, young seedlings have now begun to regenerate naturally. Research results also indicate that wintering birds account for 51% of the total bird species observed in Wazihwei. It’s a great idea to plan a winter visit, bringing your camera and binoculars to capture the diverse avian life.

However, visitors should note that they must not enter the tidal flats at will. If entering the reserve for special purposes such as educational research and close-up investigation, prior application to the New Taipei City Agriculture Bureau is required. Preserving these precious wetland resources requires everyone’s cooperation. Welcome to visit the Wazihwei Nature Reserve for an unforgettable eco-adventure.

Chinese egret — Photo by Zhou Chuanxia. (Provided by New Taipei City Agriculture Bureau)