Tamsui Tianyuan Temple Cherry Blossom Spectacle × Secret Feast at Shi Yang Shan Fang
🌸 Tamsui Tianyuan Temple (Tianyuan Temple San Yu Temple)
📍 Location: No. 36, Section 3, Beixin Road, Shuiyuan Village, Tamsui District, New Taipei City
✨ Highlights:
• Cherry Blossom Paradise: A popular spot for cherry blossom viewing from late February to mid-March, famous for its Yoshino cherry trees. The trail behind the main temple is lined with cherry blossoms, creating a scene reminiscent of Japan's cherry blossom landscapes.
• Architectural Style: The main hall of Tianyuan Temple features a dome structure that blends Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements. Its iconic five-story circular pagoda-style palace is grand and majestic.
• Religious Center: Dedicated to the "Three Officials Great Emperor" and also enshrines the Jade Emperor, Guanyin Bodhisattva, and other deities. It is one of the most popular temples in northern Taiwan.
• Night Views and Lighting: During cherry blossom season, nighttime lighting is often added, creating a dreamy interplay of night blossoms and temple lights.
• Transportation Tips:
• Public Transport: Take the MRT to Tamsui Station, then transfer to buses (866, 875, 876, 877) and alight at "Tianyuan Temple Station."
• Driving: Due to the crowds during cherry blossom season, it is recommended to visit on weekdays or arrive early as parking is limited.
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🍃 Shi Yang Shan Fang (A Hidden Culinary Retreat)
📍 Location: No. 7, Lane 350, Section 3, Xiwan Road, Xizhi District, New Taipei City (near Wuzhi Mountain)
✨ Highlights:
• Hidden Restaurant: Known as a "paradise in the mountains," this secluded retreat is nestled in a bamboo forest, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
• Architectural Ambiance: Wooden structures with large floor-to-ceiling windows surrounded by scenic ponds and natural greenery. The scenery changes with the seasons (cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, maple leaves in autumn, and mist in winter).
• Culinary Style: Specializes in "health-focused set meals" using seasonal local ingredients from Taiwan. The dishes are light yet layered with flavors, and each plate is a work of art.
• Signature Dishes: Plum-based dishes, wild mountain vegetables, seasonal soups, and tea snacks.
• Dining Experience: Meals are served as set menus (reservation required, priced around NT$1,200–1,600 per person). While dining, guests can enjoy views of garden streams and mountain mists, creating a picturesque experience. After the meal, take a stroll around the grounds to soak in the serene atmosphere.
• Reservation: Advance booking via phone or online is required. Popular weekend slots are often fully booked.
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✨ Suggested Itinerary
For a one-day trip:
1. Spend the morning at Tamsui Tianyuan Temple to enjoy cherry blossoms and pay respects, with optional visits to Tamsui Old Street or Fisherman's Wharf.
2. Head to Shi Yang Shan Fang in the afternoon for lunch or dinner, experiencing a tranquil dining experience in the mountains.