The Xindian River (新店渓) cycling path is one of the most popular routes for locals in Taipei. It’s a fun activity in its own right, or could just be used to get from one tourist destination to another. Much of the way is through wide, open parks, plus there are occasional spots to stop off at for a riverside drink or meal.
The recommended route passes areas such as Dihua Street and Ximending, before zigzagging it’s way around central Taipei. While it can get a little crowded on weekends, it’s an excellent cycle ride almost any time of the year. There are various paths on both sides Xindian River, as well as frequent bridges across, so you can also customize your route on the fly depending on how crowded it is and if anything ahead looks of interest.
A nice place to stop along the Xindian River would be at the Treasure Hill Artist Village, which has a few YouBike stations nearby and is a lovely spot to chill after a bike ride, with its art galleries and cafes. Alternatively, you could continue down the river and end up at Xindian.
Cycling information
Difficulty: Easy
Time required: 40-50 minutes
How to do the cycling route
You could start almost anywhere on the rivers east bank, but an easy place to start is from Daqiaotou Station. This station is located not far from Taipei Station, just requiring a transfer at Minquan West Road Station (9 minutes, NT$40). There is a YouBike station just outside exit 2, as well as another down the main road, near Xindian River.
Once you have your bicycle, head west along the main road. Just after the YouBike station near the river, and just before you get to the river wall, head up the stairs taking you over the river wall. Take a left turn when you get up, and then you can start your journey down the river, heading south.
Official website: ntpc.gov.tw