Xindian Travel Guide

Explore Xindian, Taiwan with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the must-see attractions, food and drink scenes, local customs, safety tips, how to get there and more.


Introduction to Xindian

Xindian is a small urban district located in New Taipei City, a colorful mix of history, culture, and natural attractions. This picturesque town is surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and mesmerizing lakes, making it a perfect destination for exploring Taiwan’s natural beauty. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Xindian, including popular attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, local customs, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Xindian

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Bitan Scenic Area

The Bitan Scenic Area is a stunning attraction located in Xindian, New Taipei City. It’s home to Bitan Bridge, which dates back to the Qing Dynasty, and is a popular spot for taking a stroll and admiring the scenery. Visitors can also rent a paddleboat and explore the stunning scenery of the area.

Xindian Old Street

Xindian Old Street is a cultural hub with countless food stalls and souvenir shops. Many of the buildings date back to the Qing Dynasty and have been lovingly restored to showcase the region’s rich history.

Xindian Culture and Arts Center

The Xindian Culture and Arts Center, built-in 2011, is a cultural landmark of the town, located at the intersection of Zhongzheng Road and Gongyi Road in the middle of Xindian Park. It worth a visit if you’re keen on learning more about the town’s vibrant arts scene.

Natural Attractions of Xindian: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Wulai Scenic Area

The Wulai Scenic Area is an amazing destination for nature lovers in Xindian, hosting plenty of hiking trails, hot springs, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can also learn more about the aboriginal culture of Taiwan in the Wulai Atayal Museum.

Xindian River and Park

The Xindian River and Park is a popular destination for families in Xindian, where they can rent a space for picnicking or explore the hiking trails of the park. Its riverbank is one of the best spots to capture a stunning sunset view.

The Xiaobitan Trail

The Xiaobitan Trail is a fantastic hiking trail for adventure seekers in Xindian. The trail is more challenging than others in Xindian but rewards trekkers with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the whole town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Xindian

Xindian is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking and biking paths waiting to be explored. Here are some of the must-try routes.

Bitan Bike Path

The Bitan Bike Path is a cycling trail that stretches around the Xindian River and offers panoramic views of the park and its surroundings.

Yanshan Trail

The Yanshan Trail is a famous hiking trail in Xindian that offers unbeatable views of Taipei 101 and the entire Taipei basin.

Xindian Riverside Park Trail

The Xindian Riverside Park Trail is an easy trail that can be hiked or biked. It is located close to the center of Xindian, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.

Best Things to Do in Xindian: Activities and Tours

Bitan Scenic Area Cruises

The easiest way to explore the Bitan Scenic Area is by hopping on one of the numerous boats available for rent. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lush greenery, temples, and other attractions while learning more about Taiwan’s history and culture.

Wulai Atayal Museum

The Wulai Atayal Museum tells the story of Taiwan’s aboriginal communities, their history, culture, and art. The museum offers regular guided tours, and visitors can witness cultural dance performances and demonstrations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Xindian

Day 1: Bitan Scenic Area and Xindian Old Street

Start your exploration of Xindian with a visit to the Bitan Scenic Area and the Xindian Old Street. Take a paddleboat or bike path to explore the stunning scenery in the area.

Day 2: Wulai Scenic Area

Spend the second day exploring the Wulai Scenic Area that covers various hot springs, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Day 3: Xindian Culture and Arts Center

Visit the Xindian Culture and Arts Center and explore the art installations, performances and masterpieces.

Day 4: Xiaobitan Trail

Get adventurous and take a 4-hour hike in Xiaobitan Trail to capture the mesmerizing panoramic view of the town.

Day 5: Bitan Bike Path

Spend your fifth day exploring the Bitan Bike Path that stretches along the town’s riverbank, perfect for a relaxing ride.

Day 6: Wulai Atayal Museum

Take a trip to the Wulai Atayal Museum and learn about Taiwan’s aboriginal culture and art.

Day 7: Xindian Riverside Park Trail

Enjoy a leisurely day hiking or biking along the Xindian Riverside Park Trail followed by a picnic in one of the parks.

Food and Drink Scene of Xindian

Must-Try Dishes

Bamboo Rice

One of the most famous Taiwanese dishes, the bamboo rice is a savory rice dish cooked within bamboo shoots served with various fillings like pork, tofu, and mushrooms.

Countryside Chicken

Also referred to as “deboned chicken,” the dish features the roasted chicken deboned and served with a special sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper.

Local Beverages

Bubble Tea

Bubble Tea is a Taiwanese invention, which has become almost synonymous with the local culture. Sip in one of the numerous shops in Xindian and taste the authentic flavor.

Taiwan Beer

An excellent choice for all beer lovers, Taiwan Beer is tastefully brewed with hand-picked ingredients, making it a perfect refreshment for all.

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

The Lotus Hotel

The Lotus Hotel is near the Wulai Scenic Area and features modern and comfortable rooms with excellent amenities.

Love Bridge Hotel

Located near the Bitan Scenic Area, the Love Bridge Hotel offers fantastic views and luxury rooms with high-quality service and comfort.

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

Hakka Taro Balls

Made from a special blend of taro root, sweet potato, and potato, Hakka Taro Balls are a perfect souvenir gift for visitors.

Wooden Crafts

Xindian is known for its wood and wooden craft, allowing visitors to purchase souvenirs handmade by the locals.

Local Culture and Customs of Xindian

Xindian is a culturally rich town, and it’s worth learning a little about the customs of the locals. Respect for elders is a central value for the people of Xindian, and one should also say “thank you” (xiexie) to show gratitude for the hospitality and kindness shown.

Best Time to Visit Xindian

The best time to visit Xindian is between October and December when the weather is pleasant and the temperature is mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Xindian

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages.
  • Learn a bit of Mandarin or Taiwanese to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Use your feet to point at objects or people.
  • Touch someone’s head, as it’s considered disrespectful in Taiwanese culture.
  • Underestimate the sun’s strength and skip on sunscreen.

Safety and Health

Safety in Xindian

Xindian is generally safe to travel to, but visitors should stay aware of their surroundings, especially while exploring the night markets.

Health in Xindian

Xindian is a well-developed area in terms of health infrastructure, with modern clinics and hospitals available. Visitors should carry travel insurance to cover medical expenses and any emergency visits.

Getting to Xindian: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Xindian

The nearest airport to Xindian is Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, located around an hour and a half away from the town. Visitors can book a taxi or bus service upon arrival to get to the town.

Bus Stations Near Xindian

Visitors can take the Taipei Bus from Xindian Bus Station or take the MRT train to their destination.

How to Get Around in Xindian

Visitors can easily navigate the town by bicycle or taxis, which can be flagged down on the street. There are also several bus stops in the town, making it easy to get to your destination.

Where to Go Next from Xindian: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Taipei City

Taipei City is a bustling metropolis and should be on every traveler’s list while in Taiwan. It features the famous Taipei 101 and numerous shopping malls, museums, and cultural attractions.

Beitou Hot Springs

Beitou Hot Springs is a famous destination for travelers looking for a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich water.

Conclusion

Xindian is a charming town worth exploring, with its stunning natural scenery, cultural landmarks, and inviting locals. With this comprehensive guide in hand, visitors can make the most of their trip and explore all that Xindian has to offer. From its delectable cuisine to its scenic trails and luxury hotels, Xindian is bound to keep every traveler engaged and entertained.

The river at Bitan, Xindian, and the mountains The river at Bitan, Xindian, and the mountains Bitan pedestrian bridge Bitan pedestrian bridge Yinhedong Yinhedong Taiping Temple Taiping Temple Gan-En Pavilion Gan-En Pavilion