Taiwan Food Atlas

Bitan Scenic Area, Xindian

The emerald-green pool of Xindian River and Taiwan's longest surviving single-tower asymmetric suspension bridge
📍 New Taipei · Xindian District · Bitan🏞️ Nature🔖 Suspension bridge · Bitan · Cycling path

Bitan Scenic Area in Xindian is a scenic pool on the middle reaches of the Xindian River, formed where steep cliffs on both banks give the water its deep emerald color — historically a renowned recreation spot in northern Taiwan. The Bitan Suspension Bridge spanning both banks was built between 1936 and 1937, during the Japanese colonial era, designed by Taiwanese engineer Jiang Shiding and constructed by Chen Haisha's Guangzhi firm — the first bridge in Taiwan fully designed and built by Taiwanese people. The bridge is 186.6 meters long and was designated a New Taipei City monument in 2013.

Bitan Suspension Bridge began construction in June 1936 and was completed in 1937 (Showa 12); it is 186.6 meters long, 3.5 meters wide, and 20 meters high, designed by Taiwanese engineer Jiang Shiding and built by Chen Haisha's Guangzhi firm — the first bridge in Taiwan fully designed and constructed by Taiwanese people during the Japanese colonial era. It was designated a New Taipei City monument on August 5, 2013, and is now used only by pedestrians.

What to see at Bitan

Pedestrians can walk across the Bitan Suspension Bridge; standing at the center offers a view down onto the steep cliff terrain on both banks and the deep green water below, while boat activity on the surface can be watched from above. The east bank has a trail extending along the Bitan Scenic Area shoreline — the path is level, and fishermen and morning exercisers can be seen along the way. The west bank has a shopping street and dining area where weekend crowds concentrate.

Starting from Bitan, a cycling path extends north along the Xindian River and connects with the Jingmei River cycling path, forming a riding route toward the southwest of the Taipei Basin. Pedal boats are a distinctive recreational activity unique to Bitan; rentals are by the hour and suit pairs or families enjoying the calm water. Late spring through autumn (roughly April to October) offers favorable weather for outdoor activities; during winter northeast monsoon season, strong winds make water activities less suitable.

How to make the most of your visit

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Cycling along the Xindian RiverThere is a YouBike rental station beside Bitan. You can ride north along the Xindian River cycling path — the route is flat; choose your turnaround point based on available time.
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Renting a pedal boatPedal boat rentals are on the west bank. Weekdays have shorter waits; on weekends, arrive early. In summer (June–September), being on the water feels cool.
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Cross the bridge and walk the east bank trailAfter crossing the suspension bridge, continue along the east bank trail, which follows the base of the cliffs. The perspective is entirely different from the west bank's shopping street — quieter and more peaceful.
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Evening when the bridge lights come onThe Bitan Suspension Bridge is illuminated after dark; the bridge reflects on the water, creating an atmosphere very different from daytime. Worth a stroll after dinner.

Practical information

Getting there and timing

  • From Taipei MRT Xiaobitan Station (branch line), it is about a 10-minute walk to Bitan. You can also take the Xindian Line to Xindian Station and transfer by bus. Convenient transport is a key advantage.
  • The outdoor area at Bitan is open all day. Pedal boat rentals are weather-dependent and may be suspended in rain or strong winds — check on-site notices.

Nearby connections

  • Heading north from Bitan along the Xindian River cycling path, you can reach Yonghe or Banqiao riverside parks. The entire route is gentle and suitable for a half-day ride.
  • Driving south about 40 minutes takes you to Wulai. Combine Bitan with Wulai hot springs: a morning visit to Bitan followed by a soak in Wulai.

Source: New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau; Wikipedia entry on Bitan. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Bitan Suspension Bridge built?

It was built between 1936 and 1937 (Showa 12) and is 186.6 meters long.

Who designed Bitan Suspension Bridge?

It was designed by Taiwanese engineer Jiang Shiding and built by Chen Haisha's Guangzhi firm, the first bridge in Taiwan fully designed and built by Taiwanese during the Japanese colonial era.

Can you still cross Bitan Suspension Bridge?

Yes, it is now used only by pedestrians and was designated a New Taipei City monument in 2013.

Sources

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