Location: Taoyuan and Hsinchu
Distance: 93km Elevation Gain: 1,700m
We are in Taoyuan and Hsinchu County with this post – featuring a 93km loop that starts and finishes at Neiwan Old Street. While an early start is recommended, the length and mildly challenging terrain makes it possible to complete in a single day, even with multiple photo ops, resupply, and café stops. That said, bring your calories and make sure your GPS is charged – and take special note: if the weather is good, this is a superb route.
The full loop includes Hsinchu County, rolling north briefly through Guanxi to Longtan and east to Shimen Reservoir. Riders follow its scenic roadways in Taoyuan County to the midpoint of the route at Fuxing, then descend to Luofu and the Xikou Suspension Bridge before following Luoma Rd through Guanxi Township and back to the start. The route avoids main highways as much as possible to reduce traffic exposure while highlighting the area’s unique roads and landscapes. Navigation is easy but becomes tricky in the final 20 kilometers, so riders should pay close attention to their GPS.
Neiwan Old Street is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It is easily accessible by train or car. Take the local train from Hsinchu to Neiwan Station or drive, though be warned that Neiwan can see heavy traffic during weekends and holidays. While there is ample parking, expect some traffic in and out of town. The train, however, drops riders off right at the heart of the old town. Alternatively, one can ride directly from Hsinchu up Route 3 – Provincial Highway, making a right onto Zhongshan St. at Hesing Station and following it through Fuqui directly to Neiwan.
Neiwan – Fuxing – Loufu Loop (88 km)
- Start at Neiwan Suspension Bridge – Snap a quick photo, then head east on Zhonghan St. for 2.5 km toward Fuqui.
- Turn Right at Hsu No. 32 – Easy to miss! Follow this scenic, winding road for 8.7 km to connect with Highway 3.
- North on Highway 3 – At the CPC Gaoyuan Intersection, turn right onto Longyuan Rd., leading to the Shimen Reservoir toll booth.
- Huanhu Rd. Along Shimen Reservoir – A beautiful section with frequent water views. Notable cafés:
- Lakeside Café Good Food- 環湖咖啡好食 – Popular but crowded.
- Forestaurant – Quieter, tucked behind a green gate.
- Join Highway 7 (Fuxing Rd.) – Turn right and climb toward Fuxing, the midpoint of the ride.
- Descent on Beiheng Rd. (Xiayan Bridge) – Enjoy stunning views of Fuxing Bridge.
- Loufu (7-11 consider a stop) – Stock up! Limited food options beyond this point.
- Luoma Rd. – Turn right toward Losing Watan Memorial Park. This section features quiet, freshly paved roads winding through villages.
- Cafés Along the Way:
- Mulan Café – Spectacular views.
- EiEiPan – Eclectic restaurant.
- Bashan Coffee – Cozy café with coffee & pizza.
- Cross into Hsinchu County – Continue toward Guanxi Township.
- Shine Rd. & Two Key Turns – Easy to miss!
- Final Climb – Narrow, lush, overgrown roads lead to the top. Then, a winding descent to Zhongshan St. brings you back to Neiwan.
Note on Direction
- Clockwise: This route provides a “touring” experience. While it includes some climbing challenges—such as the weirdly tiring slog up Route 3 to the reservoir entrance, the rollers along the reservoir, the climb to Fuxing, and the final ascent before descending into Neiwan—it trends generally downhill.
- Counterclockwise: The “lycra” version. This direction is far more challenging, with steep climbs in the first half. Highlights include a 7 km, 300 m climb out of Neiwan, gradual climbs leading to Loufu, and the ascent from Fuxing Bridge to Fuxing.
Here is the GPX file – take a look and it is an easy download, just click the link and dump it onto your device.