New Taipei Selected as One of the Best Summer Travel Destinations in 2016 for Its Spectacular North Coast Attractions

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

New Taipei City’s North Coast and Yehliu Geopark have been selected by “National Geographic” (National Geographic) as an editor’s recommended “2016 Best Summer Travel Destination.” The main reason for the selection is the uniquely fascinating rock formations at Yehliu Geopark. Under the weathering and sea erosion shaped by seawater and strong winds, features such as the Queen’s Head, Fairy’s Shoe, Tofu Rock, Sea Caves, and Candlestick Rocks make the Yehliu scenic area a diverse natural classroom. In addition, Fugui Cape Park and Taiwan’s northernmost Fugui Cape Lighthouse are also well worth visiting.

Besides Yehliu Scenic Area, a famous tourist spot in Northern Taiwan, the North Coast is also a great place to explore. The North Coast includes the eastern part of New Taipei City and the Guanyinshan National Scenic Area, generally referring to the coastal highway stretching from Tamsui to Yehliu. It spans Wanli, Yehliu, Jinshan, Shimen, Santai, and Tamsui. The coastline’s golden beaches, azure waters, and majestic mountain views form a picturesque strip of scenery. You can plan a day trip or stay for several days. White Sand Bay, shallow Water Bay, and Jade Bay are considered paradise for young people who want to enjoy water activities. In the evening, visit the Jinshan Old Street to sample local specialties such as agar jelly, grilled sweet potatoes, and Jinshan duck. For more culinary options, take a bus to Keelung Miaokou Night Market for a hearty meal.

After completing your North Coast itinerary, you can also visit Fisherman’s Wharf and experience the five senses at the Fisherman’s Stage — watch the sunset, feel the sea breeze, listen to music, drink beer, and eat grilled fish. This year, Fisherman’s Wharf is quite different. The New Taipei City Government Tourism Bureau has created a performance stage for Taiwan’s original music, providing bands with a fixed space to share their creations. At the same time, it is developing Fisherman’s Wharf into Taiwan’s first base for independent band music.

North Coast Travel Transportation Information: Getting to the North Coast is very convenient via public transport. Take a shuttle bus from the airport to Taoyuan High-Speed Rail Station, then take a 20-minute high-speed rail ride to Taipei Station and transfer to the MRT heading north to Tamsui Station. Tamsui Station is the gateway to the North Coast. Right outside the station, you’ll find the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle – Crown North Coast Line bus, where you can purchase a one-day unlimited pass between Tamsui Station and Guanyin Fishing Harbor. The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle buses travel along the scenic routes of the North Coast and stop at many tourist attractions along the way as well as visitor centers on Provincial Highway 2.
 

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