Stunning backdrops perfect for photos – Six must-visit attractions in Taoyuan

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

In recent years, Taoyuan has become one of Taiwan’s popular tourist destinations, with continuously updated events such as flower seas, landscape displays, and installation art festivals, attracting visitors from all over the island. Below are six highly photogenic spots in Taoyuan, each offering a unique view. It’s recommended that travelers consider a trip to Taoyuan.

1. Xinyi Weather Station
Xinyi Weather Station is a popular IG photo spot. It was the exhibition venue for the Taoyuan City Agricultural Expo. Although the expo has ended, the landscape installations remain. The area features many great photo opportunities, including the iconic “Solar Energy Tree of Life” that blooms upward. Other highlights include the photovoltaic corridor made of solar panels, as well as structures like a whale, containers, and bamboo weavings — all highly Instagrammable.
 
2. Baishajia Lighthouse
Baishajia Lighthouse is located on the Guanyin coastline. Standing about 37 meters tall, it is the second tallest in Taiwan after Kenting’s Eluanbi Lighthouse. It is the only lighthouse in Taiwan built with red bricks and stones, unlike others made of concrete. The circular pathway beside the lighthouse features a blue-and-white clock tower, offering a romantic Mediterranean vibe.

3. Taoyuan Land Art
Although the Taoyuan Land Art Festival has ended, the artworks remain. Strolling through the green tunnel of the baiqianmu trees in Guanyin, you can discover many fantastic art installations perfect for photos.

4. Daping Red Bridge
Voted as one of Taiwan’s top 100 historic buildings, Daping Red Bridge was built in 1923 in Sanjing Village, Longtan District. It earned its name because it was entirely constructed with red bricks and is now recognized as a Taoyuan Municipal Historic Site. The area around the bridge has been developed into a waterside park, making it a great leisure destination.

5. Caota Sand Dunes
The Caota Sand Dunes are located along the Guanyin coastline in Taoyuan, stretching over 8 kilometers. This hidden gem is not widely known. The yellow sand forms wavy patterns in the wind, creating a surreal, movie-like landscape. From the high points along the trails, you can gaze at the vast, breathtaking sea views reminiscent of Kenting’s Fengchui Sha or Jiupeng Desert. A row of more than ten giant wind turbines slowly turns in the breeze, forming a stunning scenic picture.