One-Day Tour of Scenic Northern Coastline and Exquisite Cuisine

Text & Photography / David Chen, MOOK Travel Life Network

The northern coastline region may not have the convenience of the MRT or direct access to highways, but along Highway No. 2, the stunning seascape stretching to the horizon, coupled withthesea breeze, offers a refined sense of slow living. Scenic spots along Highway No. 2, such as the Ju Ming Museum, Shih tou Shan Park, and shallow Bay, allow busy urbanites to enjoy a day filled with mountain and sea harmony in alifestylegetaway. The area’s famous snacks and international cuisines add irresistible flavors to this relaxing one-day trip.

Route: Shih Tou Shan Smoke-Free Trail → Jinshan Sweet Potato Ball Song → Ju Ming Museum → Shimen Scenic Area & Liu Family Zongzi → Shallow Bay → La Duiduo Italian Restaurant

Recommended Must-Visit Attraction: Shih Tou Shan Park

In summer, the northern coast is all about diving into the ocean and getting drenched for the ultimate thrill. But Shih Tou Shan Park in Jinshan offers aforesttrail where you can enjoy a forest bath while gazing at the sea view from Yehliu Cape. Along the path, cheerful little monk statues beam with joy. Though you might not get the thrill of cool water, strolling under the shade of trees with the ocean breeze filtering through the woods is equallyrefreshingfor the soul.

Dubbed the “Jinshan Shih Tou Shan Park Good Luck Trail,” this 267-meter-long path has a gentle slope. The wood chips scattered along the trail are made from driftwood from Typhoon Morakot, which not only reduces pressure on the kneesbutalso provides a soft, comfortable walking surface—making it easy even for seniors to enjoy a stroll in the woods.

Fun fact: Shih Tou Shan was originally named Jinshan Zhongzheng Park and was once a restricted military zone. Aside from military personnel, only former President Chiang Kai-shek had unrestricted access, which helped preserve much of its natural ecology and coastal scenery.

Good Luck Trail View Platform (You can drag your mouse to change the viewing angle):

Recommended Must-Try Food: Jinshan Sweet Potato Ball

When it comes to Jinshan’s Jinkouli Old Street, everyone immediately shouts “duck meat!” Indeed, the tender, elastic duck meat paired with shredded ginger and the shop’s special sauce is a feast for both the palate and the soul. But not far from the duck meat shops, the souvenir store “Sweet Potato Ball” crafts a variety of sweet potato products using traditional recipes. Their “Fried then Frozen Sweet Potato” is handmade, baked, then rapidly frozen to retain all the nutrients, offering a tender yet slightly chewy texture combined with crispy skin—the natural sweetness is truly unforgettable.