One of the most picturesque parts of the city, Anping Harbor is home to several parks, beaches and cycling paths. Once a commercial fishing port, this historic harbor has been turned into a large recreation area where you can stroll, cycle, swim and relax.
Go for a walk in Lin Mo Niang Park, a 4.9-acre (2-hectare) green space on the south bank of Anping Canal. The park is dedicated to Lin Mo Niang, the human embodiment of the goddessMatsu. There is a huge statue of the deity toward its west end.
Walk up the hill she stands on for superb views of the harbor and watch fishing boats move in and out of the port. If you’re lucky, you may see whale and dolphins swimming off the coast. There are also memorable vistas to be enjoyed at the nearby Sunset Viewing Platform. As its name suggests, this is a good place to watch the sun going down. Other popular activities in the park include picnicking, cycling and kite flying. If you don’t have your own kite, you can rent or buy one from nearby stands.
Stretch out on the soft sands of Chiao Tou Beach Park, where locals come for skimboarding and windsurfing. Cycle or walk along the boardwalk that connects the beach with the Lakeside Water Bird Park, part of the Sihcao Wetlands. Stay a while to catch glimpses of the local birdlife from one of the viewing platforms. Among the species that are often seen here are spoonbills and egrets. You can also head deeper into the mangrove areas for more opportunities to see birds.
Anping Harbor is located in Tainan City's Anping District and is close to Anping Fort. Take a train to Tainan Station and then catch a bus from there to reach the harbor. You can easily explore the harbor attractions on foot, or alternatively rent a bike to get around.
