Wulai Waterfall and Xinxian in New Taipei: A Valley Stream Ride Near Taipei

Wulai to Xinyuan: A Valley Cycling Exploration Near Taipei

Located just about 40 kilometers from downtown Taipei, the Wulai District of New Taipei City offers a completely different landscape of mountains, streams, and rivers. Wulai is renowned for its hot springs, waterfalls, and Atayal culture. Continuing past Wulai Waterfall and deeper into the valley toward the Xinyuan tribe village, riders can experience the raw wilderness of the northern mountains. This route combines hot spring culture, indigenous heritage, and valley stream scenery, making it one of the most beloved suburban mountain adventures for Taipei cyclists.

Route Overview

Wulai Old Street: The Gateway to a Hot Spring Settlement

Wulai Old Street is the commercial heart of the Wulai District, lined with hot spring hotels, indigenous restaurants, and souvenir shops. Atayal handicrafts are the most iconic souvenirs of Wulai, including traditional woven textiles, bamboo utensils, and ornaments featuring Atayal totems.

Before setting off, enjoying a steaming bowl of wild boar noodle soup or wild vegetable soup on the Old Street is the perfect ritual to begin this mountain ride.

Wulai Waterfall

Wulai Waterfall is the most famous waterfall in New Taipei City, with a drop of about 80 meters. Its abundant water volume cascades down from the mountaintop with a thunderous presence. The waterfall viewing trail is well-equipped, and a 10-minute walk brings you to the best vantage point.

Into Xinyuan: Riding Along the Nanshi River

Past Wulai Waterfall, the route continues along the Nanshi River deeper into the valley, entering the Xinyuan tribe area visited by fewer tourists. This stretch is about 15 kilometers. The road gradually narrows, flanked by towering cliffs, while the Nanshi River rushes turbulently through the valley floor, its waters shimmering with an emerald glow under the sunlight.

Xinyuan is a traditional Atayal settlement where residents have preserved a rich Atayal culture, including the memory of traditional facial tattooing, weaving skills, and mountain agriculture. Several small farms run by tribe members offer agricultural experiences such as fruit picking and bamboo shoot digging.

Nanshi River River-Trekking

The Nanshi River in the Xinyuan area is one of the most popular river-trekking routes in northern Taiwan. The water is clear and refreshing, and the trekking path passes through multiple natural pools and small waterfalls. If you carry river-trekking gear, you can arrange a trekking session after the ride—the most refreshing summer experience in Wulai.

Wulai Hot Springs

Wulai’s hot springs are of the sodium bicarbonate type, with clear water that moisturizes the skin, earning it the nickname “Beauty Water.” After completing the ride, soaking in the hot springs at Wulai Old Street or a nearby hot spring hotel provides full relief for tired muscles—the perfect finale to the ride.

Best Seasons for Riding

• Spring (Mar–May): Lush green mountains, abundant stream water, and pleasant weather
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak river-trekking season, but be mindful of heavy mountain rainfall during typhoon season
• Autumn/Winter (Oct–Feb): Cool weather, Wulai hot springs at their most popular—ideal for a “ride plus soak” itinerary

Notes

• Some sections of Provincial Highway 9A are narrow; watch for large oncoming vehicles
• Mobile phone signals are unstable in the mountains; inform family or friends of your itinerary before departing
• The Nanshi River rises quickly after rain; avoid resting near the riverbank or wading in the water

Related Reading

• Wulai Trail Running Routes: Exciting Trail Terrain in the New Taipei Mountains
• Xindian Bitan to Wulai Waterfall Route: A Leisurely Route Through the Mountain Valleys of Northern Taiwan
• Northern Mountain Route Selection: Comparing Riding Routes in Yangmingshan, Wulai, and Pinglin
• Sweat and the Scent of Fireworks: A 7.6 km Mountain Ride to Wulai Baoqing Temple