Wetlands, rivers, wildlife, coastal waters and temples await at Taijiang National Park. The large protected area covers more than 97,137 acres (39,310 hectares) and encompasses diverse scenery and sites of cultural importance.
Embark on a cruise along some of the waterways. Take the 30-minute raft ride through the mangrove tunnel, a canopy formed over the water by the park’s four mangrove species. Go on boat trip through wetlands and down the Yanshui River. During the 70-minute trip, see if you can spot some of the park’s many bird species, including black-faced spoonbills, ibises and egrets.
Explore some of the terrain on two wheels. Bicycle by estuaries, past traditional fish farms and navigate your way through wooded areas. There are also footpaths that will take you through mangrove and wetland areas.
In addition to the natural resources, Taijing National Park has a number of historic and cultural sites that are well worth seeing. Visit Luermen Matsu Temple, which is said to have been built on the spot where Chinese military leader Zheng Chenggong landed to attack Taiwan’s Dutch settlement. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Matsu, who believers claim protected Zheng. Look for the beautiful statue of the deity inside the temple. Among the park's other religious sites is the Zhenmen Temple, built in 1662.
Tour the Salt Field Eco-Culture Village, located on the site of the former Anshun Salt Fields. Learn about historic salt production techniques and watch salt harvesting demonstrations. Be sure to stop by the nearby Taijiang Cetacean Museum, where you can see whale skeletons and preserved whale organs.
Taijiang National Park stretches across the coastline north of Anping, from the south bank of the Yanshui River to Qingshan Fishing Harbour. For driving directions, visit the park’s official website.