Hugging the coast of Taiwan, Sanzhi District is a largely rural area north of New Taipei City that’s famed as the birthplace of Lee Teng-hui. It encompasses 13 villages and one of the most beautiful wisteria gardens in the country, as well as a beach that offers magnificent sunsets over the East China Sea.
Things to do in Sanzhi District
The Li Tien-lu Hand Puppet Historical Museum is a must-see in the Sanzhi District and is named after one of Taiwan’s most renowned puppeteers. Many of the 200+ vintage puppets on display were used by Li during his career and some date back more than 100 years. Puppetry performances are regularly held at the museum’s Almost Life Like Puppet Theater.
For a day at the beach, head to Qianshuiwan Seaside Park, which centres around a long stretch of sand overlooking the East China Sea. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are a couple of cafes where you can dine throughout the day and a beachfront promenade that’s particularly popular at sunset.
On the southern edge of Sanzhi District is the Wisteria Coffee Plantation, which was established just over two decades ago with wisteria trees imported from Japan. It’s now one of the largest wisteria gardens in Taiwan, with over 500 trees igniting with purple flower clusters in spring. Walk through the 100-metre-long wisteria tunnel and photograph the replica Moai statues, then admire the garden’s rose, camellia and African lily displays.
Getting around Sanzhi District
Sanzhi District is around an hour’s drive from the centre of New Taipei City and just over an hour from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Buses connect from New Taipei City to Sanzhi District and travel throughout the area. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way of exploring Sanzhi District.