Taiwan Cycling Route Planning: Government Investment and Future Development Outlook

Taiwan’s cycling route development has made significant progress over the past two decades, evolving from scattered riverside paths in the early days to a cycling route network spanning the entire island today. Sustained government investment is transforming Taiwan into a major cycling tourism destination in Asia.

The Development History of Taiwan’s Cycling Routes

The 2000s: The Foundation of Riverside Routes

The first major phase of Taiwan’s cycling route construction centered on urban riverside bike paths:

• 2003: Taipei City launched its riverside cycling route network, connecting the Keelung River and Tamsui River waterfronts
• 2004: Kaohsiung’s Love River and Cianjhen River cycling routes were completed
• 2006: The “Bike Holiday” policy was promoted, with counties and cities across Taiwan beginning to plan tourism-oriented cycling routes

The 2010s: The Establishment of Tourism Routes

• Dongfeng Green Corridor: Converted from an abandoned railway, it became one of Taiwan’s most popular flat cycling routes
• Houfeng Bike Path: An internet-famous route featuring a tunnel experience
• Lanyang Cycling Route Network: Yilan County integrated resources such as the Dongshan River and Luodong Forestry Railway

The 2020s: The National Trail and Cycling Route Plan

After 2020, Taiwan’s cycling route policy entered a more systematic planning phase:

Shan-Shan-Zun Greenway: Promoted by the Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, it connects the Yanshui River on the west coast to the Jianan Mountain Range, serving as a combined trail/cycling route.

Existing Major Cycling Route Systems

Urban Routes

Long-Distance Tourism Routes

Analysis of Government Investment Plans

Cycling Tourism Promotion Budget

The Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications allocates relevant budgets annually:

• Cycling tourism promotion programs
• International promotion of the “CyclingTaiwan” brand
• Cycling-friendly accommodation certification system

Key Infrastructure Investment Priorities

In recent years, the government’s investment direction in cycling infrastructure:

1. Quality improvement of existing routes: Road resurfacing, signage system updates, and lighting improvements
2. Route connectivity: Bridging existing gaps to form a complete network
3. Service facilities: Installation of supply stations, repair stations, and shower facilities
4. Digital navigation: QR code information points and app integration

Comparison with International Standards

Taiwan still lags behind advanced cycling nations internationally:

Problems and Challenges Facing Taiwan’s Cycling Routes

Insufficient Continuity

Many of Taiwan’s cycling routes are “fragmented,” failing to connect into complete networks. Cyclists are forced to switch to regular roads at gaps, affecting the riding experience and safety.

Inconsistent Pavement Quality

Some older road surfaces have fallen into disrepair, and combined with the impact of Taiwan’s earthquakes and typhoons, pavement quality varies greatly.

Insufficient Parking and Supply Facilities

Many cycling routes lack basic bike racks, restrooms, and bike repair tool stations along the way, affecting convenience.

Mixed Use with Scooters and Pedestrians

In some cities, cycling routes are shared with scooter lanes or used by pedestrians, reducing safety and smooth traffic flow.

Future Development Outlook

Short-Term Goals (2025–2027)

• Complete full-route renovation of Taiwan Cycling Route No.1 around the island
• Expand the number of cycling-friendly accommodation certifications
• Establish a unified Taiwan-wide cycling route app and digital navigation

Medium- and Long-Term Plans

• Urban cycling priority lanes: Following the example of European cities, establish physically separated dedicated bike lanes on major urban roads
• Completion of long-distance routes such as the Shan-Shan-Zun Greenway: Create long-distance tourism routes with international appeal
• E-bike charging facilities: Responding to the growing popularity of electric-assist bicycles

Although Taiwan’s cycling route construction still lags behind advanced European nations, the direction of progress is clear. Every newly built or renovated cycling route is a step toward creating a more cyclist-friendly environment for the next generation. As riders, we have a responsibility to make good use of these facilities and an obligation to advocate for a better riding environment.

Related Reading

• Taiwan Cycling Route Construction: The Round-the-Island Cycling Network Built by Government Investment
• A Complete Analysis of Taiwan’s Cycling Policy: A Rider’s Rights Guide from Route Construction to Legal Protection
• The History of Taiwan’s Cycling Infrastructure Development: The Long Road from Riverside Paths to Commuter Networks
• An Introduction to Taiwan’s Cycling Route System: The Features and Connections of Cycling Routes Across Counties and Cities