By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
The 3-day New Year’s holiday in 2018 is here—have you decided where to go? The Tainan City Tourism Bureau has put together an amazing guide for the break. Whether you’re looking to party at a countdown concert, greet the first light of dawn, soak in hot springs, sample local cuisine, stroll through the city’s old streets and alleys, or explore scenic mountain and seaside spots, Tainan has it all. To celebrate the arrival of 2018, Tainan not only hosts a spectacular “3-Part New Year Countdown” with activities to keep visitors entertained, but also offers rich natural ecology, charming rural vibes, and the brand-new Anping cruise experience—delivering a memorable start to the new year.
The 3-day New Year’s holiday in 2018 is here—have you decided where to go? The Tainan City Tourism Bureau has put together an amazing guide for the break. Whether you’re looking to party at a countdown concert, greet the first light of dawn, soak in hot springs, sample local cuisine, stroll through the city’s old streets and alleys, or explore scenic mountain and seaside spots, Tainan has it all. To celebrate the arrival of 2018, Tainan not only hosts a spectacular “3-Part New Year Countdown” with activities to keep visitors entertained, but also offers rich natural ecology, charming rural vibes, and the brand-new Anping cruise experience—delivering a memorable start to the new year.
Watching the sunset at Beimen. (Photo/Tainan City Government Tourism Bureau)
The “2017-18 Tainan New Year’s Trilogy” includes: Part 1, bidding farewell to 2017 with a white sunset at Beimen’s Jingzijiao Tile-Plate Salt Fields; Part 2, an unforgettable countdown party at the High-Speed Rail Tainan Station Square that goes on all night; and Part 3, welcoming the 2018 sunrise at Erliao in Zhen’an. Erliao is one of the lowest-altitude spots in Taiwan to view a sunrise over sea of clouds—and its otherworldly badland landscape, barren yet breathtaking, leaves a strong impression. Depending on weather and time of day, the scenery shifts like an ink-wash painting. After descending from Erliao, you can also join the “Tiger Head Pond New Year’s Day Flag-Raising and Hiking” event nearby. Those who complete a lap around Tiger Head Pond’s lake loop can enter a lucky draw to win prizes such as round-trip flights between Tainan and Osaka. Everyone is welcome to join in this early morning activity—entry is free before 10 AM, so kick off the new year with a healthy, energizing walk and create wonderful memories together.
Welcoming the 2018 sunrise at Erliao. (Photo/Tainan City Government Tourism Bureau)
Winter is also the best season for hot spring soaking. Recommended for travelers seeking tranquility, Guanziling Hot Spring Scenic Area lets you quietly take in historical traces or wander the old hot spring street before unwinding in a cozy hot spring inn and enjoying the soothing, “heartwarming” embrace of mineral-rich mud baths to soothe your tiredness and soak in the romantic vibe of this century-old hot spring town. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to savor delicious clay pot chicken and local wild vegetable dishes, then head to the 175 Dongshan Coffee Avenue to taste the rich, aromatic Dongshan coffee for a uniquely delightful experience.
Guanziling mud bath hot spring. (Photo/Tainan City Government Tourism Bureau)
In Tainan, you can also explore the recent trend of revitalized heritage buildings. The city is dotted with uniquely styled and atmospheric old structures. Opposite the Tainan Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Xinyi Branch, the “Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park” was once a complex of judicial dormitories—now fully renovated into a cultural and creative hub integrated into urban life, with a variety of creative shops turning it into a new landmark for Tainan’s cultural scene. Another hotspot is the trendy alleyway street, Zhengxing Street, where hidden gems include creative eateries, cafes, teahouses, ice cream shops, and container-based concept stores, offering diverse experiences. Connected to the nearby Guohua Street food district, it forms an even more charming walking area. Take a stroll through Tainan this New Year’s holiday, and use the latest illustrated feature map brochure “Old House Time Machine,” created by the Tourism Bureau, to discover the stories and creative rebirths of Tainan’s historic buildings.
Zhengxing Street shopping district. (Photo/Tainan City Government Tourism Bureau)
For those who enjoy getting close to nature, Tainan’s various scenic areas are perfect choices. The ticket-free, 24-hour “Deyuanpi Dutch Village” features large wooden windmills from the Netherlands standing on its lawns, with a massive pair of Dutch wooden clogs placed out front as its most iconic symbol. White fences stretch across the space, while sparkling water glimmers in the distance—the idyllic scenery makes its camping area always in high demand. This natural, rustic, and exotic pondside destination is ideal for families to come together for walks, cycling, camping, and picnics.
Deyuanpi Dutch Village. (Photo/Tainan City Government Tourism Bureau)
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