Shiding Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich Shiding in Taiwan, with its natural wonders, culinary delights, and helpful tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.


Introduction to Shiding

Shiding, a charming town situated in New Taipei City, Northern Taiwan, is a hidden gem for travelers wishing to experience Taiwan beyond the bustling crowds of Taipei city. The town is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, offering visitors an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Shiding is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and mouth-watering local cuisine. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Shiding has something to offer for all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Shiding

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Shiding is home to several culturally significant museums and historical sites. These include:

  • Shiding Old Street: A bustling marketplace filled with food vendors and souvenir shops, offering an array of traditional Taiwanese snacks and handicrafts.
  • Shiding Chrysanthemum Tea House: A traditional tea house with a history of more than 100 years, serving various types of tea from the mountains surrounding the town.
  • Shiding Hakka Cultural Museum: Showcases the unique culture and traditions of the Hakka people, the largest ethnic group in Shiding.
  • Shiding Chameleon House: A traditional Fujian-style home built in the 1920s, showcasing the architecture and lifestyle of the past.

Natural Attractions of Shiding: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Shiding is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking peace and tranquility. Some of the town’s natural attractions include:

  • Shiding Thousand Island Lake: A stunning natural lake with over a thousand small islands, offering visitors picturesque views and water activities such as boating and paddleboarding.
  • Shiding Qingliang Peak: A popular hiking destination with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Shiding Waterfall: An impressive 40-meter-high waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
  • Shiding Bike Trail: A scenic route that winds through the town’s charming neighborhoods, offering visitors a glimpse into local life and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shiding

Shiding offers a variety of hiking and biking routes suitable for travelers of all levels. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Qingliang Mountain Trail: A challenging 14-kilometer trail that takes visitors through rugged terrain and offers stunning panoramic views.
  • Jhongjheng Forest Path: A tranquil 5-kilometer trail that leads hikers through a dense forest filled with bamboo groves and old trees.
  • Shiding Bike Trail: A leisurely 5-kilometer route that takes riders through the town’s historical and cultural landmarks, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Shiding: Activities and Tours

Shiding has a variety of activities and tours for travelers to enjoy. Some of the best things to do in the town include:

  • Tea Picking and Tasting Tour: Visitors can experience the art of tea-making by picking and processing their own tea leaves and then enjoying a cup of tea in a traditional tea house.
  • Hakka Cultural Experience: Get a glimpse into Hakka culture and traditions, such as making mochi (rice cake) or Hakka-style pottery.
  • Cycling Tour: Explore the town’s charming neighborhoods and natural scenery by bicycle, with local tour guides available to lead the way.
  • Water Activities: Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards to explore the picturesque Shiding Thousand Island Lake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shiding

For visitors looking to spend a week in Shiding, here is a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Exploration

  • Arrive in Shiding and check into a local hostel or guesthouse.
  • Head to Shiding Old Street and explore the bustling marketplace, trying local snacks and shopping for souvenirs.
  • Visit the Shiding Hakka Cultural Museum to learn more about Hakka culture and traditions.

Day 2: Natural Wonders of Shiding

  • Take a leisurely bike ride along the Shiding Bike Trail, stopping at the town’s natural attractions such as the Shiding Waterfall and Thousand Island Lake.
  • Hike up to Qingliang Peak for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding mountains.
  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a local hot spring.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

  • Embark on a thrilling white water rafting adventure through the nearby gorges.
  • Go rock climbing at Long Dong, one of Taiwan’s premier rock climbing destinations.
  • Finish the day with a delicious Hakka-style meal at one of Shiding’s quaint restaurants.

Day 4: Tea Culture and Tasting

  • Join a tea picking and processing tour, learning about the art of tea-making from local experts.
  • Visit the Shiding Chrysanthemum Tea House to taste various types of tea from the surrounding mountains.
  • Return to the hostel or guesthouse for a relaxing evening.

Day 5: Exploration of Taipei

  • Take a day trip to Taipei to explore the city’s many attractions, including the famed Taipei 101 building and National Palace Museum.
  • Return to Shiding for dinner and drinks at a local bar or restaurant.

Day 6: Cultural Experience

  • Partake in a Hakka cultural experience, such as making mochi or Hakka-style pottery.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Chameleon House, a traditional Taiwanese-style home and museum.

Day 7: Departure

  • Check out of the hostel or guesthouse and say goodbye to Shiding, taking with you memories of the town’s unique culture, natural beauty, and friendly people.

Food and Drink Scene of Shiding

No trip to Taiwan is complete without sampling the country’s famous and delicious cuisine. Shiding offers a range of local specialties with its own unique twist, including:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hakka-style Stir-fried Noodles: Made with handmade noodles and a mix of vegetables and pork, this dish provides a blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
  • Grilled Chicken Wings: Marinated in soy sauce, sugar, and five-spice powder, these chicken wings are a popular street food item in Shiding.
  • Bamboo Rice: Steamed sticky rice cooked with minced pork or chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables in bamboo tubes for additional flavor.

Local Beverages

  • Chrysanthemum Tea: A local specialty known for its refreshing taste and health benefits.
  • Fruit Vinegar Drinks: These drinks, made from fruit vinegar, sugar, and water, are a refreshing alternative to traditional juices and sodas.

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

Shiding offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Some popular options include:

  • Shiding Cozy Homestay: A guesthouse within walking distance of Shiding Old Street, offering clean and comfortable rooms with a shared bathroom.
  • Mountain Tea Bed and Breakfast: A peaceful and eco-friendly bed and breakfast, surrounded by lush tea plantations, offering stunning views of the mountains.
  • Orange Manor Hostel: A modern and affordable hostel, located in the heart of Shiding, with a friendly and helpful staff.

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

Shiding is known for its locally produced teas, pottery, and handicrafts. Some popular souvenirs to bring back home include:

  • Shiding Chrysanthemum Tea: This fragrant and refreshing tea, grown in the surrounding mountains, is a must-try for tea lovers.
  • Hakka-style Pottery: The town’s rich pottery tradition has spawned a variety of unique and beautiful ceramics, perfect for decorating your home.
  • Handmade Soap: Made from natural ingredients such as essential oils and goat’s milk, these soaps are gentle on the skin and wonderfully scented.

Local Culture and Customs of Shiding

Shiding, much like the rest of Taiwan, has its own unique culture and customs. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions and follow local customs, like removing shoes before entering someone’s home or temple. The Hakka people have a rich culture, and visitors are encouraged to learn about it as much as possible.

Best Time to Visit Shiding

The best time to visit Shiding is during the spring (March to May) or the autumn (September to November), as the weather is mild and comfortable, with plenty of sunshine. Summer can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and wet.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shiding

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try local food and drinks
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains and forests.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind
  • Wear revealing clothes when visiting temples
  • Be too loud or inconsiderate in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shiding

Shiding is a safe and friendly town, with low crime rates. Visitors are advised to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and staying alert in crowded areas.

Health in Shiding

Shiding has a high standard of health care, but visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. It is also recommended to bring any necessary medications and to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration in the hot climate.

Getting to Shiding: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shiding

The nearest airport to Shiding is Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA), which is around 45 minutes by car or taxi. Alternatively, Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is around an hour and a half away by car or bus.

Bus Stations Near Shiding

Shiding is easily accessible by bus from Taipei City. Buses depart regularly from Taipei City Hall Bus Station, with a journey time of approximately one hour.

Other Options

For those wanting a more convenient and comfortable option, taxis and private cars can also be hired for the journey to Shiding from Taipei.

How to Get Around in Shiding

Shiding is a small town, and visitors can easily explore on foot or by bicycle. Motorbikes are also available for rent and offer a convenient mode of transport for longer journeys around the town.

Where to Go Next from Shiding: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Shiding is located within proximity to many other popular destinations in Taiwan, including:

  • Jiufen: A charming mountain town famed for its narrow alleyways and stunning sea views.
  • Yehliu Geopark: Home to an array of unique geological rock formations, including the iconic “Queen’s Head.”
  • Taipei: Taiwan’s vibrant capital city, offering an array of attractions such as the National Palace Museum and Taipei 101 building.

Conclusion

Shiding is a hidden gem in Northern Taiwan, offering visitors a unique and authentic travel experience. From its culturally significant museums and historical sites to its natural wonders and local cuisine, Shiding has something to offer for everyone. By following this guide, travelers can make the most of their trip and return home with unforgettable memories.

Thousand Island Lake Thousand Island Lake Shiding Old Street Shiding Old Street Jishun Temple Jishun Temple