Sanzhi Travel Guide

Explore the best of Sanzhi with this travel guide, featuring the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, and transportation options.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Sanzhi, Taiwan

Are you looking for a unique travel experience in Taiwan? Look no further than Sanzhi! This hidden gem, located in New Taipei, is the perfect destination for those looking to get off the beaten path and explore Taiwan’s natural and cultural wonders. In our comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the must-visit places, the best things to do, local culture and customs, and everything in between.

Introduction to Sanzhi

Sanzhi is a small town located in the northern part of Taiwan, approximately 30 kilometers from Taipei. It is known for its natural beauty, serene beaches, and unique architecture, making it a perfect destination for both nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Sanzhi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Sanzhi UFO Village: This abandoned housing project was built in the 1970s with unique UFO-inspired architecture. Today, it serves as a popular destination for urban explorers and architecture enthusiasts.

  2. Sanzhi Fisherman’s Wharf: Located on the coast, this wharf not only offers picturesque views of the ocean but also has a large fish market that sells fresh seafood.

  3. Qianshui Bay: This bay is a popular destination for photographers and adventurers alike, with its tall cliffs and blue-green waters.

  4. Fort San Domingo: This historic fort was first built by the Spanish in the 17th century and has been through various hands over the years. Today, it serves as a museum to showcase the history of Sanzhi and Northern Taiwan.

Natural Attractions of Sanzhi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Yeliu Geopark: This geopark is known for its unique rock formations, including the famous “Queen’s Head” rock formation. It is also a great spot for hiking with scenic ocean views.

  2. Fugui Cape: Located on the westernmost part of the northern coast, Fugui Cape offers one of the most stunning sunset views in Taiwan.

  3. Bali Left Bank: This destination is popular for surfing and beach activities, making it a fun spot for an active day trip.

  4. Mt. Shiti: This mountain offers sweeping views of the northern coast and the chance to hike through beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sanzhi

  1. The Pingxi Line Trail: This trail is a 3-hour hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Sanzhi, including waterfalls and scenic views.

  2. The Xizhi River Bike Trail: This biking trail is a great way to explore Sanzhi’s natural beauty while taking in views of the Xizhi River and its surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Sanzhi: Activities and Tours

  1. Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

  2. Scuba Diving: Scuba diving is a must-do for underwater enthusiasts, with many diving spots located just off the coast.

  3. Hot Springs: Sanzhi is home to several natural hot springs, including the famous Golden Waterfall hot spring.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sanzhi

Day Activities
1 Arrival in Sanzhi, explore the UFO Village
2 Visit the Qianshui Bay, hike the Mt. Shiti
3 Day trip to Yeliu Geopark, check out the Queen’s Head
4 Go surfing at Bali Left Bank, watch the sunset at Fugui Cape
5 Scuba diving or visit one of Sanzhi’s hot springs
6 Visit Fort San Domingo, take a boat tour to see whales
7 Departure from Sanzhi

Food and Drink Scene of Sanzhi

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Oyster Vermicelli: This local specialty is a noodle soup with fresh oysters, garlic, and cilantro.

  2. Sanzhi Cold Noodles: This dish is similar to Korean Bibim naengmyeon, with cold buckwheat noodles, vegetables, and a spicy sauce.

  3. Sabazushi: This sushi dish is a Sanzhi specialty, made with local mackerel.

Local Beverages

  1. Taiwan Beer: This beer is a staple of Taiwanese culture and can be found in most bars and restaurants in Sanzhi.

  2. Bubble Tea: Originating in Taiwan, it has become a global sensation with numerous variations including fruit tea, milk tea, and even cheese tea.

Where to Stay in Sanzhi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Castle Hotel: This hotel features unique castle-inspired architecture and a beautiful ocean view from every room.

  2. The Old Black Castle: A traditional Taiwanese-style guesthouse with charming decor and stunning views.

  3. The Lostvilla: This spacious resort offers a peaceful retreat with a mix of modern and traditional architecture.

What to Buy in Sanzhi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Sanzhi Pineapple: These locally grown pineapples are renowned for their sweetness and make for a delicious souvenir.

  2. Traditional Mosaic Tiles: These tiles were used in the construction of the Sanzhi UFO Village and make for a unique and colorful souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Sanzhi

Sanzhi’s unique architecture and history are a reflection of the cultural melting pot that Taiwan is. The town was originally inhabited by the native Amis tribe and has since seen influence from the Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, and more. Locals are proud of their heritage and the diverse cultural influences on their town.

Best Time to Visit Sanzhi

Sanzhi is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sanzhi

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs.
  • Take your trash with you and keep the environment clean.
  • Try the local cuisine and embrace the culture.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.
  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Hike or bike off the designated trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sanzhi

Sanzhi is a safe town, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially when hiking on the trails or swimming in the ocean.

Health in Sanzhi

In case of a medical emergency, there are clinics and hospitals nearby.

Getting to Sanzhi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sanzhi

  1. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport: The largest airport in Taiwan with international and domestic flights.

  2. Taipei Songshan Airport: A domestic airport for flights within Taiwan.

Bus Stations Near Sanzhi

  1. Taipei Bus Station: The main bus station in Taipei with routes to Sanzhi.

  2. Ruifang Bus Station: A smaller station with routes to Sanzhi.

Other Options

There is also a train station in Shimen, which is a 20-minute taxi ride away from Sanzhi.

How to Get Around in Sanzhi

The most convenient way to get around Sanzhi is by renting a car or scooter. Biking and hiking trails are also available for exploring the town’s natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from Sanzhi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Taipei: The capital city of Taiwan, Taipei is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history, delicious food, and cultural landmarks.

  2. Jiufen: This mountain town is famous for its narrow streets, old-world charm, and stunning mountain views.

  3. Jinguashi: A former gold-mining town located in the mountains, Jinguashi is now a popular tourist destination with its historic architecture and mines.

Conclusion

Sanzhi is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and is perfect for travelers looking to explore off the beaten path. With its stunning coastlines, scenic views, and diverse culture, Sanzhi is being talked about as one of the up-and-coming destinations in Taiwan. It’s a destination that should definitely be on your must-visit list when you next visit Taiwan.

Front entrance of the Shell Temple. Front entrance of the Shell Temple. Fude Temple. Fude Temple.