10 Best Things to Do for Couples in New Taipei

In the 33-storey city hall building in New Taipei City in Banqiao District, there's an observation deck on the 32nd floor that's similar to the Taipei 101 observation deck. The one at city hall is free of charge for visitors and can be accessed via the lift during working hours. From the deck, you can see all the main features of Banqiao, including Banqiao Station, the First Sports Ground and the Mega City Department Store. On a sunny day, you can also see Taipei 101, the Grand Hotel and the Miramar Ferris Wheel from the observation deck, which even offers views of the Tamsui River and Yangmingshan.

Many people choose to come up at dusk to see the city in the golden light of the setting sun. The blue sky gradually turns red and finally goes dark. Then the street lamps are turned on to light up the city. Watching the changes in the sky from the observation deck is a really romantic experience. New Taipei City Hall Observation Deck is a popular spot both day and night.

Since 2016, a firework display has been held at Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf every year to celebrate the Double Seventh Festival, which is known as Chinese Valentine's Day. On that day, the market opens in the afternoon and live music performances take place. Other entertainments are also available, including the Ferris wheel, carousel and small tourist train. Many visitors arrive in the afternoon to see the beautiful backdrop of the mountains and the sea and to enjoy themselves before the firework show.

In 2019, the firework display lasted for 5 minutes and 20 seconds, because the number 520 sounds similar to "I love you" in Chinese. Fireworks of different colours lit up the sky in time with the music. The varying speed and brightness of the fireworks conveyed different meanings. All the guests were impressed by the various shapes that the fireworks made, such as hearts, smiling faces, magpies and the magpie bridge. The firework display changes every year, as does the exact date of the Double Seventh Festival.

Crescent Bridge connects the 435 Art Zone and Xinzhuang Old Street in Banqiao. It's a steel arch bridge with the longest double spans in Taiwan, with a total length of 1,133 metres, including the approach. Crescent Bridge has a long sloping approach with several entrances and exits for people who have reduced mobility or are pushing children in buggies. It's also the longest land bridge for pedestrians and cyclists in New Taipei City. There are 4 observation and rest platforms on the bridge, each of which has a unique design with different types of installation art. The most distinctive of these is the transparent skywalk. It's very exciting to see the Dahan River flowing below you while you walk across the skywalk.

During the day, you can see the nearby large green open spaces and picturesque river scenery from the bridge. At night, the lamps on the bridge alternate between 7 different colours and the light is reflected on the water. Local residents enjoy walking on the attractive Crescent Bridge. Why not visit yourself and see the magnificent view of the river?

Xizhi Dream Lake is divided into 2 areas: the mountain and the lake itself. The lake is only 5 minutes' walk from the start of the Dream Lake trail. This is an artificial lake in the mountains and it's called Dream Lake because of the dreamy view on foggy days in winter. Dream Lake is an environmental protection area and is home to many Taiwanese native species. The lake water looks green and clear and is as smooth as a mirror, with reflections of the mountains in the water. The lakeside is quiet and peaceful and a trail runs through the woods that surround the lake.

The lake does not usually have many visitors and so it has become a popular location for wedding photography. At sunset, newly married couples sit in the romantic setting of the wooden pier by the sparkling waters of the lake. As you walk along the hiking trail, you make your way through the forest until you finally reach the ridge, which has a panoramic view. On a sunny day, you can see Taipei 101 and Keelung Island. If you want to get closer to nature, come to Xizhi Dream Lake for a picnic or a walk or to explore the secret land.

Bitan is only 5 minutes' walk from MRT Xindian station. The name Bitan literally means a "green pool with clear, still water". It has been a popular place for couples since the 1950s. Today, the banks are decorated with love-themed artworks, such as bells, chairs for couples and 3D colour drawings. It's easy to take artistic photos here. Couples can also enjoy a slow cruise down the river in a swan boat.

After you land, you can walk along the riverbank in the shade of the trees and watch the performances of street artists or stroll across the Bitan suspension bridge hand-in-hand to see the river from a different perspective. Bitan is even more romantic at night. The light beams on the suspension bridge add a beautiful touch to the night-time view of the river. Finally, you can bring your day in this beautiful area to an end with a romantic dinner at the Bitan Waterside Restaurant.

Jiufen is known as the "mountain town of gold", because of the gold rush there in the late 19th century. Today, it has been transformed into a tourist attraction. Visitors will be impressed by the historic buildings and narrow, winding, stone-paved streets in Jiufen, which is a seaside town set against a mountain backdrop. Looking down from the observation deck and you'll see clouds and mist drifting through the mountains. The shops along both sides of Jiufen Old Street are packed closely together and some of them have been there for several generations. Try some traditional snacks, especially taro balls (yu yuan), if you are feeling hungry.

If you turn off Jiufen Old Street, you'll find quiet, peaceful alleyways with flights of steps. At dusk, you can sit by the window in a tea house and enjoy the beautiful evening. When the lamps are lit at night, you'll see the lights of the fishing boats bobbing on the dark sea. The old street, which is illuminated with red lanterns, has a quiet and nostalgic atmosphere. Night-time in Jiufen is a particularly romantic time for couples.

The Lin Family Mansion and Garden is one of just a few well-preserved private gardens in Taiwan. It's divided into 2 areas: the garden and the mansion. The garden was awarded grade II historic status in 1985. In the past, wealthy people liked to build large courtyards where they could receive their guests. The Lin Family Mansion and Garden was damaged during the Second World War. After it had been professionally restored, it was opened to the public.

The garden is full of a variety of plants and the old trees bear witness to the history of the Lin family. Guided tours are available which allow you to find out about the history of the garden. The garden is a quiet oasis in this busy city. If you want to take artistic photos, the best locations are the historic pavilion, a small bridge over a stream and the red promenade. As there are not many visitors on working days, it's a pleasant place for couples to spend time.

Shalun Beach near Fisherman's Wharf is the best place to see the sunset away from the crowds in Tamsui. The nearby riding stables provide horses that you can ride on the beach, to give you a romantic experience of horse riding in Taipei. Beginners will be instructed by a professional coach, who will teach you about horses and give you tips on feeding, grooming and riding them. The staff at the riding stables will come with you to take photos of you on horseback and of your silhouette against the sunset. This is an unforgettable experience for couples.

You can spend time with the one you love on the beach at sunset against the backdrop of the golden sea and orange sky, walking on the fine sand and feeling the waves lapping gently over your feet. The long coastline is an ideal location for wedding photography and other visitors will enjoy seeing the new couples here.