Urban Etude: Top 10 Most Beautiful Cycling Routes in Taipei and New Taipei

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 

Whether you're cycling just for commuting or simply want to enjoy a leisurely ride at your own pace on the weekend, biking has become one of the most popular activities for everyone. It's not only environmentally friendly but also allows you to freely weave through alleys, fields, and countryside to discover your very own beautiful scenery — there’s nothing better. Below is a list of the top ten most popular cycling paths in Taipei and New Taipei. Seize a break in your daily life and set off on your own urban etude anytime you like!

● Old Caoling Tunnel (from Gongliao Yanliao to Fulong Coastal Area)

The recently shortlisted “Old Caoling Tunnel,” which is up for the 2015 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards — often dubbed the Nobel Prize of tourism — was originally a railway tunnel from the Japanese colonial period. Due to railway electrification and the inadequacy of single-track usage, it was transformed by the Northeast Coast and Yilan National Scenic Area Administration and officially opened in 2009. The former railway tunnel has now become a cycling tunnel. When cycling here, you can occasionally hear the rumble of trains, adding a touch of retro charm.

● Bali Left Bank Bicycle Path

Come to the Bali Left Bank Bicycle Path, where you can cycle along the riverside, enjoying the beautiful waterside views. Along the way, you'll also spot lush green lawns and small gardens that are so relaxing they can temporarily make you forget the troubles of daily life.

● Erchong Ring Bicycle Path

Located in Sanchong District, New Taipei City, the Erchong Flood Diversion Channel was originally used for flood discharge from the Shimen Reservoir. It is home to the largest riverside park in New Taipei — the Greater Taipei Metropolitan Park. The route also passes by attractions like the Sunshine Canal and Breeze Canal, making it a great leisure destination for cycling enthusiasts.

 
● Xindian River Bicycle Path
The Xindian River Bicycle Path features smooth surfaces and a relaxed pace. Cyclists can ride along the Xindian River and explore the scenic Bi Tan Suspension Bridge area. For those with more energy, you can continue on to the left or right bank bicycle paths of the Dahan River, all the way to Yingge and beyond.

● Guandu Nature Park Bicycle Path

The Guandu Bicycle Path is one of the earliest dedicated cycling routes. Its western endpoint is at Guandu Temple, then it heads east along the Guandu Flood Prevention Levee to the Baxian Fude Temple. After a 90-degree turn north, it crosses the Guandu Plain until it reaches the southern side of the Beitou Zhongyang North Road MRT tracks. Visitors who don't have their own bikes can start at Guandu Temple and rent bicycles or tandem bikes directly.