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 is located in the middle reaches of the Xindian River. Steep cliffs on both banks cause this stretch of water to run deep and appear emerald green, making it a renowned recreation spot in northern Taiwan throughout history. The Bitan Suspension Bridge spans both banks with a single-tower asymmetric design, one of the longest spans of its type still standing in Taiwan. Pedal boats and pleasure boats can be rented beside the bridge, drawing local residents and visitors on weekends.

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.

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