Yanping Riverside Park

Taipei Yanping Riverside Park is located on the high-water floodplains outside the levee, between Zhongxiao Bridge and the Zhongzhou Pumping Station at Section 9, Yanping North Road. In the 1950s, this area was a popular recreational spot for Taipei residents. Yanping Riverside Park, extending from Zhongxiao Bridge to the end of Minsheng West Road, boasts a vast open area. Entering from the end of Nanjing West Road (Water Gate No. 4), visitors are greeted by dense groves of trees, green lawns, and large shade trees. This area has historically been the 'back garden' for residents of Datong District. In the mornings, the plaza often hosts grandmas dancing folk dances, and grandpas strolling or practicing Tai Chi. Inside Water Gate No. 4 at the end of Nanjing West Road, there is 'Yanping Temple,' which remains a gathering place for local elders. The plaque bears an inscription from the twelfth lunar month of the Yiji year, estimated to have been built around 1905. Beneath the large offering table in the temple courtyard, the tiger god's statue is ancient and vibrant, seemingly witnessing the rise and fall of the local community. Just outside Water Gate No. 5 at the end of Minsheng West Road is Dadaocheng Wharf. Upon entering the water gate, one can see colorful 'Tangshan' sailing boats, elegantly arched bridges, and a Blue Highway ferry terminal. Currently, ferries can take visitors along the waterway to Guandu or Bali, offering a different kind of experience compared to land travel. Dadaocheng Wharf (Water Gate No. 5) features the Blue Highway ferry terminal, a coffee plaza, and 'Tangshan' sailing boats. Cycling northward along the river, one is accompanied by views of Yangmingshan and the sunset over the Tamsui River. The tranquility enjoyed here feels especially precious when contrasted with the steady stream of traffic on the various cross-river bridges. Cyclists can also visit adjacent cultural heritage sites along the way, including Dadaocheng, Dihua Street, Xiahai City God Temple, Taipei Confucius Temple, Dalongdong Baoan Temple, and Yongle Market, among other attractions, offering a glimpse into Dadaocheng's past prosperity.