Sanxia (officially Sanxia District) is an exciting destination that blends historical, religious and urban attractions with outdoor recreation. The district sits at the confluence of three rivers and stretches across fertile plains into gorgeous mountain landscapes. Experience the old-world charm of Sanxia’s commercial streets, visit temples and tour museums. Explore beautiful countryside via scenic trails.
Follow the devotees to Sanxia Tsu Shi Temple (aka Sanxia Qingshui Zushi Temple), a Taoist shrine dedicated to the revered monk Qingshui. Designed by local artist Li Meishu, the temple is unique for its carved stone walls and pillars. Everywhere you look you’ll see instances of delicately carved animals, gods and mythological creatures.
With elegant baroque façades, arcades and redbrick archways, a walk on Sanxia Old Street is a journey back in time. This was once the epicenter of the town’s cloth dyeing trade. Today, shops sell artwork and ceramics while restaurants serve street food such as pig’s blood cake and bull’s horn-shaped croissants. Xinglong Gong Matsu Temple, dedicated to the Mazu sea goddess, is located on the street.
Delve into the district’s past via art and artifacts that highlight its coal, cloth dyeing and tea industries at Sanxia History Museum. The New Taipei City Hakka Museum tells the story of Taiwan’s Hakka people. Spot lion sculptures and pavilions as you cross Zhangfu Bridge to reach the Li Meishu Memorial Gallery.
Venture outside of the town center and into forest-clad hillsides on the Yuan Shan Hiking Trail. Adventurous hikers will enjoy the challenging scrambles, rope climbs and ridge walks of the Wuliaojian Mountain Trail. Walk through forests, relax beside waterfalls and spot birds and butterflies in Manyueyuan National Forest Recreation Area.
Sanxia is a 20-minute drive to the southwest of downtown New Taipei City. Travel here by catching a bus from Banqiao Station. Visit in July, when the Sanxia Indigo Dye Festival turns the city blue and honors the area’s dyeing traditions.
