In Japan, cherry blossoms typically begin blooming in March, starting from southern regions such as Kagoshima and Izu, and gradually make their way northward until reaching Hokkaido by the end of May. This phenomenon is referred to as Japan’s “cherry blossom frontline.” Now, Taipei’s “cherry blossom frontline” is quietly unfolding in the bike station area of Tie Ma Yi Zhan (Bike Station) in Shilin’s Xishan region.
Cycling while admiring cherry blossoms is a seasonal cycling experience. (Image source / Taipei City Government Public Works Department, Earth Engineering Office)
The newly completed bike station by Taipei City Government Public Works Department’s Earth Engineering Office has around 50% of its cherry blossoms in full bloom due to its mountainous terrain, wind-exposed location, and climatic factors, making it an area where cherry blossoms are blooming earlier than the rest of Taipei. With the Lunar New Year holiday approaching, choosing to cycle and enjoy the cherry blossoms could also be a unique and fresh way to celebrate the Year of the Horse.
Huang Liyuan, head of the Earth Engineering Office, stated that this bike station is Taipei City’s first rest stop specifically designed for mountain cyclists. It is located along Section 3, Zhishan Road, Lane 71, on the steepest section leading toward Pingdingshi. During the design phase, the presence of nearby cherry blossom woods was taken into consideration to offer cyclists a chance to enjoy the blossoms. Currently, the pink-hued cherry blossoms sway gently in the breeze along the Pingjing Street route, turning cycling into a visual delight.
One recommended route is to cycle from Mingde Amusement Park along Section 3, Zhishan Road, Lane 71, all the way to Lengshuikeng. Along this path, you will pass by the “Bike Station.” Although the route is long, it offers diverse scenery—you can appreciate cherry blossoms, maple leaves, and stream landscapes depending on the season. Additionally, you can catch a glimpse of the unique satellite radar station view along Lane 131, Jing Shan Road, and take a break at a nearby café.
Taipei’s “cherry blossom front” has arrived. (Image source / Taipei City Government Public Works Department, Earth Engineering Office)
Chen Jianfan, head of the Slope Land Remediation Section at the Earth Engineering Office, mentioned that the Xishan community where the bike station is located is surrounded by numerous attractions. These include Taipei’s largest “Nei Shuang Xi Nature Center” forest park, Pingding Ancient Canal, Pingxi, and Fenggear Zui hiking trails, which are popular among cyclists who regularly ride through the mountains. The bike station offers a wide panoramic view, with refreshing mountain breezes and views of the Shilin and Neihu areas. It’s a truly refreshing sight. During the Lunar New Year, netizens are encouraged to cycle up Yangmingshan to view the cherry blossoms and stop by the bike station midway for a rest and scenic enjoyment. Not only is it great exercise, but it also provides a new and different cherry blossom viewing experience.
● Extended Reading:
Pingxi Sky Lanterns, Railway Mini Trips — Top 5 Themed Travel Recommendations for Exploring New Taipei During the Lunar New Year
www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=9551