Yanping Riverside Park Introduction
Taipei's Yanping Riverside Park is located along the high floodplain between Zhongxiao Bridge and the pumping station of Section 9, Yanping North Road. This area was a recreational space for Taipei residents in the 1940s. Yanping Riverside Park is close to the stretch from Zhongxiao Bridge to the end of Minsheng West Road, featuring a large expanse of land. Entering from the southern end of Nanjing West Road (No.4), you will immediately see dense forests, green grass, and shady trees. Historically, this has been the backyard for residents of the Datong District. In the early morning, the plaza often hosts local grandmothers dancing the land dance and grandfathers practicing Tai Chi. Entering through the water gate at Nanjing West Road (No.4) leads to the "Yanping Temple," which remains a gathering place for local elders. The plaque is inscribed with the year "乙己年" (which corresponds to around 1905). Under the large altar table, the statue of the Tiger God is traditional yet dynamic, seemingly witnessing the local rise and fall over time. Exiting the water gate at the end of Minsheng West Road (No.5) leads directly to Dadaocheng Wharf. Upon entering the water gate, you can see colorful Tangshan sailboats, elegantly arched bridges, and a blue public boat dock. Currently, there are boats available to take you to Guandu or Bali, allowing you to experience a different charm from the land routes. Dadaocheng Wharf (No.5 water gate) features a blue public boat dock, a coffee plaza, and Tangshan sailboats. Riding a bicycle north along the river, you will be accompanied by views of Yangmingshan and the sunset over the Tamsui River; in contrast to the busy traffic on the several cross-river bridges, the tranquility here feels particularly rare. Cyclists can also visit neighboring cultural heritage sites, including Dadaocheng, Dihua Street, Xiahai City God Temple, Taipei Confucius Temple, Dalongdong Bao'an Temple, and Yongle Market, to catch a glimpse of Dadaocheng's former prosperity.
