Bitan Scenic Area

What impressed us most when we first visited Bitan Scenic Area was the placid green Xindian River and the beautiful cliffs on the west bank. On weekdays, the place seems designed for quiet introspection—sitting on the steps by the riverside, gazing at the calm waters and the green mountains on the opposite shore. On weekends, the vibe shifts to an energetic scene where people come together to ride swan paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks, listen to buskers sing, cycle, jog, walk, enjoy sumptuous food from the waterfront restaurants, and simply bask in the ambience of Bitan.

The east side of Bitan offers a spacious riverside bank where various events are held. Night markets, cultural shows, and water performances are regularly staged here. The Bitan Water Dance Festival, a colorful water show, is held annually between May and August. The water show, which runs daily for a few weeks, is an amazing sight and not to be missed!

Bitan (碧潭) means "Emerald Pool" or "Jade Pond"—a fitting name for its tranquil green waters. In 1927, Bitan was officially selected as one of the "Eight Scenic Views of Taiwan" through a poll run by the Taiwan Daily News. In 1970, it received recognition as one of the "Ten Scenic Spots in Taiwan." I believe its beauty has lived up to this fame to this day.

Bitan is also home to the Bitan Suspension Bridge, an iconic 200‑meter‑long structure built in 1936 during the Japanese Colonial Era. Walking on this bridge, you can feel its rich history in every creak and groan as it sways with the wind. At night, the thousands of colorful LED lights on the bridge create a spectacular, Instagram‑worthy view.

Bitan is a place where one can feel a strong kinship with nature amidst the sounds of chatter and laughter, as people enjoy the jade river’s charm with friends and loved ones.