The villagers are going wild too! The most hilarious bike costume event kicks off in Chiayi with comedic flair

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

An annual event that mobilizes the entire village to dress up and go wild is about to take place again in Dapu Township, Chiayi. Known as one of Taiwan’s most down-to-earth rural areas, it hosts the quirkiest event — “Dapu Bike Madness.” Locals use unimaginable props to decorate their bikes. Whether funny, creative, or cute, anything eye-catching could win you a cash prize of NT$80,000.

Nestled near the Zengwen Reservoir, the small township of Dapu in Chiayi, which successfully hosted the “Dapu Bike Madness” event last year, will hold this year’s edition starting at 10:00 AM on December 10 at the plaza in front of Lovers’ Park in Dapu Township. Highway 3 in Dapu is considered the backyard garden of the Siraya National Scenic Area. Stretching along Taiwan’s largest Zengwen Reservoir, the route offers stunning lakeside scenery and fresh air, making it one of the most popular biking destinations in central and southern Taiwan. The Siraya National Scenic Area Administration and Dapu Township Office have transformed the existing biking trail into the “Dapu Bike Madness” event, providing a creative platform for cyclists across Taiwan. Show off your creativity, and you could win cash and prizes.

Liu Yuanlong, director of the Siraya National Scenic Area Administration, said that the first collaboration with Dapu Township Office last year received an enthusiastic response from cyclists and visitors. This year’s judging criteria will focus on themed costumes that reflect Dapu’s local character, encouraging participants to design eco-friendly and regionally inspired bike outfits, while also promoting the concept of green, low-carbon tourism. Registration is now open, and details including the application form can be found online.

Siraya National Scenic Area website: www.siraya-nsa.gov.tw