Women’s Learning
Where else to go besides New Taipei Christmas Town? We’ve scouted out 2018’s 7 hottest Christmas spots across Taiwan: Yilan Dreamy Christmas Village, Liuchuan Water Christmas Tree…
Once a year, as night falls, the Christmas lights that twinkle to life herald the arrival of the festive season. Although not every household in Taiwan puts up a Christmas tree like they do abroad, the holiday spirit still fills the streets with a cozy Christmas vibe. The chilly weather is perfect for strolling hand-in-hand with your loved one through these stunning, enchanting decorations. And if you’re flying solo, taking photos with your girls for the ‘gram is just as great a plan. Today, our editors have rounded up the best Christmas spots around Taiwan so you can snap to your heart’s content and enjoy a romantic Christmas night.
Every December, the Xinyi District transforms into a dazzling wonderland of colorful lights in anticipation of Christmas. Malls pull out all the stops to create festive atmospheres. Among them, the expansive “Love Sharing” exhibition area at Taipei Uni-President Department Store always draws huge crowds for photo ops.
Image source: Facebook page of Taipei Uni-President Department Store
This year, aside from the ever-popular light tunnel, Taipei Uni-President Department Store has adopted Milan as its theme—featuring window patterns inspired by Milan Cathedral—and added installations like crystal sleighs and spinning teacups. Not only are these spots super Insta-worthy, but anyone who makes a purchase or posts a photo with the Christmas setup on Facebook can ride the attractions for free. With such a magical scene, what are you waiting for?
Image source: Facebook page of Taipei Uni-President Department Store
When talking about Xinyi District, you can’t miss BELLAVITA—the luxury department store that always rolls out fresh, creative holiday displays. Its decorations never fail to spark a wave of check-ins. Unlike conventional Christmas lights, BELLAVITA aims to stand out. After a Nordic-style village in 2016 and a Christmas market in 2017, this year’s highlight is a pure white glass house that recreates a Scandinavian glacier landscape. This serene, wintry ambiance is also incredibly dreamy.
Image source: Facebook page of BELLAVITA
The pink Christmas tree that took the internet by storm last year is back in full glory at Huatai Premium Outlets. Standing tall at 15 meters, this eye-catching tree is a real showstopper. Surrounding the tree, there’s also a bustling food market where you can grab a bite after shopping at the outlets. As the clock strikes evening, prepare to be immersed in a snow-filled, romantic Christmas atmosphere.
Image source: Facebook page of Huatai Premium Outlets
In addition to the pink Christmas tree, another highlight at the First Plaza area is a humorous set-up featuring one Santa character playing six different roles, showing the hustle and bustle of Christmas Eve. From wrapping gifts to taking a bath before heading out, the display may be small, but its playful scenes are perfect for groups to “gatecrash” Santa’s home together.
Image source: Facebook page of Huatai Premium Outlets
Yes, not only does New Taipei have a Christmas Town—this year, Yilan County Government has gone all out to build an incredibly dreamy Christmas Village in the nearby Central Park. With rows of bright silver triangular light tunnels, Christmas trees that change colors with the lights, plus must-photo spots like a carousel and glowing moon swings, it’s instantly become one of the hottest new Christmas check-in spots in 2018. With vast grounds and fewer crowds than Banqiao, it’s perfect for a relaxing two-day, one-night Christmas mini-trip during the holidays.
Image source: [email protected] Chen
Since the revitalization of Liuchuan River, in addition to frequently featuring art installations for photo ops, it becomes even more magical during Christmas. This year, the lights were finally turned on last week—you can head there right away if you’re planning to go. Beyond the star attraction, the water Christmas tree, yellow and white string lights also adorn the surrounding trees and lawns, reflecting off the water to create an even more enchanting glow.
Image source: Facebook pages of Taichung Christmas Tree and Flowery Christmas on the River
Walking hand-in-hand with someone you love, enjoying a meal and then strolling along the river pathway in the cool winter breeze is simply super romantic. It’s said that the nearby Green River is also quite lovely—if you have time, you might want to check that out too.
Image source: Facebook pages of Taichung Christmas Tree and Flowery Christmas on the River
Friends down south, don’t be disheartened. Aside from Christmas decorations at Kaohsiung Uni-President Department Store, Taroko Siaogangshan Skywalk is also a must-visit. This year’s setup features a giant gingerbread house, a starlit avenue made of three big stars, and more. Even better—snowfall begins daily at 5 PM. While it hardly ever snows in hot Kaohsiung, the artificial snow lets you get your wintery fix. Sure, we all know it’s not real—but when those snowflakes start falling, it’s still impossible not to get excited.
Image source: Facebook page of Taroko Siaogangshan Skywalk
Last but not least, we’re introducing a lesser-known but ultra-photogenic Christmas installation in Pingtung. For three whole months, Pingtung Park will transform into a pink wonderland, complete with pink reindeer, pink candy canes, and a massive pink dome—guaranteed to elicit plenty of adorable squeals.
It’s a totally fairy-tale-like scene, perfect for couples in love, families, or groups of sisters to enjoy. What’s more, the Pingtung Park installations will remain open until March 3rd of next year to coincide with the lantern festival—so even after Christmas, you can plan a visit all the way through March.
Image source: Pingtung County Government
After seeing all these beautiful, magical Christmas installations, which one is your favorite? Make plans during the upcoming weekends or New Year’s holiday for a festive “Christmas Tree Hunt” adventure filled with holiday cheer.
Authorized reprint from [Women’s Learning]Original article: [Tesou2018Quantai7Churemenshengdanjingdian:Yilanmenghuanyedancun,Liuchuanshuizhongshengdanshu…]
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