Taiwan Launches New Cycling Route to Enhance Tourism Experience

The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) in Taiwan announced plans to launch Cycling Route No. 2 in 2024. This new cycling network aims to connect various scenic spots across the country while promoting Taiwan as an international cycling destination. The initiative builds on the success of Cycling Route No. 1, which has been operational since 2015 and stretches approximately 961 kilometers along provincial highways.

Cycling Route No. 1, along with 25 branch lines and 14 connecting lines, creates a total cycling network of about 2,690 kilometers, with rest stations placed every 20 kilometers. Despite its extensive reach, some areas remain poorly connected, leading to safety concerns for riders where riverside paths intersect with regular roads. To address these issues, MOTC has initiated a project to upgrade the entire cycling network, focusing on both soft and hard infrastructure improvements.

Investment and Upgrades for Cycling Infrastructure

The first phase of the upgrade, which ran from 2020 to 2023, had a budget of NT$2.619 billion (approximately US$83.39 million). The second phase, which will last from 2024 to 2027, has been allocated NT$5.775 billion, resulting in a total investment of NT$8.394 billion aimed at enhancing the cycling environment across Taiwan.

During the first phase, the ministry upgraded 1,028.3 kilometers of the network and introduced 16 new cycling routes in nationally recognized scenic areas. The forthcoming phase will focus on improving key connections. For example, it will close the gap on Provincial Highway No. 2 between Tamsui and Shihcheng, and link New Taipei’s Bali District with the coastal bike corridor in Taoyuan’s Guanyin District. Local governments will receive NT$2.428 billion from the budget to develop their cycling routes.

Deputy Minister of Transportation and Communications, Chen Yen-po, emphasized that Cycling Route No. 1 is designed for speed and efficiency. In contrast, Cycling Route No. 2 will prioritize scenic experiences, integrating existing branch lines and alternative routes. Preliminary plans suggest a focus on showcasing Taiwan’s natural beauty, with the route expected to feature coastal views and cultural landmarks.

Highlighting Taiwan’s Scenic Beauty

The route from Yilan to Miaoli will closely follow the coastline, offering cyclists breathtaking views of prominent sites such as Waiao Beach, the Cape Santiago Lighthouse, and the northernmost point, Cape Fugui Lighthouse. The Hsinchu to Miaoli section will incorporate Sinwu District’s Green Corridor, linking it with the acclaimed Hsinchu coastal route, renowned for its stunning vistas and attractions including the Nanliao Fishing Harbor.

Further south, the route connecting Taichung to Pingtung will encompass diverse cycling paths, including the Jiahou to Taohsiang route and the Green Sky Corridor, allowing cyclists to enjoy picturesque rural landscapes, tea plantations, and stunning sunsets. The section from Hualien to Taitung will primarily traverse the Huadong Valley, offering cyclists an immersive experience of Taiwan’s mountains and rivers.

The promotion of bike tourism has been a focus for the Taiwanese government since 2010, with the annual Taiwan Cycling Festival featuring ten major events. The Taiwan King of the Mountain Challenge, recognized internationally, has seen an increase in foreign participation, which rose from about 20% in its early years to 56% last year. Additionally, events such as the Formosa 900 and the Sun Moon Lake biking carnival continue to gain popularity among international cyclists.

Last year, Taiwan hosted a Tour de France event for the first time, attracting over 3,000 participants from both domestic and international backgrounds. This event marked a significant milestone in collaboration between the Tourism Administration and private organizers.

Data from the Tourism Administration revealed that cycling events organized or subsidized by the government attracted approximately 27,700 participants in 2020, generating about NT$117 million in tourism revenue. By last year, participation surged to around 89,500 individuals, which resulted in NT$338 million in tourism revenue.

The development of Cycling Route No. 2 is set to further enhance Taiwan’s reputation as a premier cycling destination, promising to attract more tourists and promote a healthy lifestyle through cycling.