Once occupied by the indigenous Papora people, Longjing District is a coastal suburb west of Taichung City. Its name translates as “Dragon Well” after a water source that lies beneath a historic camphor tree in Longquan Village, with two rocks giving it the appearance of a dragon.
Things to do in Longjing District
Longjing District makes an ideal base for exploring the Gaomei Wetlands Preservation Area, which sprawls across more than 300 hectares along the Dadu River. Once used for the cultivation of rice, its grassy marshes provide habitat for a diversity of birds, fish and crustaceans. Dominating the landscape is the red-and-white-striped Gaomei Lighthouse, which has watched over the coastline since 1967.
Just south of the Gaomei Wetlands Preservation Area is the Wuqi Fishing Harbour where you can buy freshly caught seafood or feast on ready-to-eat treats at one of several waterfront restaurants. In addition to its market stalls and eateries, you can watch the boats coming and going along the harbour-front trails or explore the sculptural park.
For elevated views across Taichung Harbour, ride the Taichung Mitsui Outlet Ferris Wheel, which is particularly spectacular when illuminated at night. It forms part of an outlet shopping centre where you’ll find international brand retail stores offering significant discounts. You can pick up surf wear at Billabong or sports gear at Champion before dining at one of the shopping mall’s global eateries.
Getting around Longjing District
Longjing District is around an hour’s drive from the centre of Taichung City and 30 minutes from Taichung International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. Trains connect to the Longjing railway station and buses travel throughout the district.