Linkou is not just about the OUTLET — five popular attractions are also super fun

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Located in Linkou District, New Taipei City, the area has become a popular shopping destination thanks to Mitsui Outlet Mall, and with the opening of the Airport MRT, it has emerged as a new suburban spot for city dwellers. In addition to Mitsui and Uni-President department stores, Linkou also offers many other worthwhile attractions. Here are five recommended spots that visitors should explore on their next trip to Linkou.

1. Majestic Grand Canyon — Linkou Buffalo Pit
The breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon in the U.S. is well known, and Linkou has its own similar spectacle to offer. Located beside Provincial Highway 61 (West Coast Expressway), Linkou Buffalo Pit, also known as Linkou Grand Canyon, features unique landforms and nearby privately grazed cattle herds, attracting many visitors and becoming a hidden gem for wedding photography and social media check-ins.

2. Fashion Meets Public Architecture — Xiafu Civic Activity Center
The Xiafu Civic Activity Center in Linkou was built using local community feedback funds and designed in collaboration with a Spanish architect and his IMO team. Drawing inspiration from the ridge ornaments of traditional temples, the design cleverly incorporates temple roof tiles and drip eaves angles into the building’s silhouette, combined with the architectural team’s expertise in Western lighting techniques. This completely redefines the traditional image of civic centers, offering a fresh take on a century-old concept.

3. Urban Slow Living — Xinliao Leisure Trail
The newly constructed Xinliao Leisure Trail stretches nearly 1 kilometer, connecting Laogongqi Trail and Ren’ai Observation Deck, making it a great spot for walking and strolling. In addition to linking several scenic spots, the other side of the trail leads to a quiet valley that offers different views throughout the seasons. Not only does it provide wide-open vistas, but it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy beautiful night scenery.

4. Night View Paradise — Ren’ai Observation Deck
Located near National Normal University, Linkou Campus, and Xingwu University of Science and Technology, Ren’ai Observation Deck is the only spot in Linkou District where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Greater Taipei Basin. Recently, the district office added binoculars, nighttime light projections, and photo-taking frames at the observation deck, which went viral online and attracted many visitors. It has quickly become a new recreational landmark in Linkou and a popular wedding photography spot.