Show off your bike and win cash prizes — Dapu Crazy Bike Festival kicks off on Dec. 9

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

Section 3 of Provincial Highway 1 in Dapu, known as the backyard of the Siraya National Scenic Area, runs alongside Taiwan’s largest Zengwen Reservoir. With picturesque lakes and mountains set against fresh, pleasant air, it has become one of the most popular cycling routes in central and southern Taiwan. The area will host Taiwan’s most creative cycling event — “Dapu Crazy Bike Festival” — on December 9. Aside from providing a stage for cyclists to show off their bikes, the event also offers a chance to win creative “kuso” prize money totaling NT$80,000. There will also be local challenges, lakeside concerts, and more.

The Siraya Management Office and Dapu Township Office have transformed existing cycling routes into the “Dapu Crazy Bike Festival,” offering cyclists across Taiwan a platform to showcase their creativity. With a bit of imagination, participants can take home cash prizes, gifts, and accommodation vouchers. Even non-cyclists are welcome — just follow the scenic route planned by the Siraya Management Office to hear local legends of Dapu, gaze at Bai Ma Ting (White Horse Pavilion) along the mountain ridges, learn the story of Xie Gong Yuan, and discover the love story of Red Garden. Complete the challenges to win a limited-edition plush keychain.

In addition to challenge games, from 14:00 and 14:30 on December 9, and 10:00, 10:30, 14:00, and 14:30 on December 10 (six time slots in total), guides from the Dapu Tourism Association will lead participants on bike rides and walks to explore, enjoy, and get to know Dapu. Aside from cycling events, the festival site will also feature Dapu agricultural specialty product exhibitions, driftwood DIY activities, as well as paragliding and fishing competitions. For details and registration, please check online.

Website of the Siraya National Scenic Area Management Office: www.siraya-nsa.gov.tw.