According to an article from National Geographic Travel, Best Winter Trips 2016, we are flattered that Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is considered a must visit in the 2016 winter. The Lantern Festival is the top most colorful and thriving festivals in Taiwan, and Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is one of first celebration people come up when think of Taiwan Lantern Festival.

The Lantern Festival is an annual event usually held on January 15th of lunar calendar, the first full-moon night of the lunar year. However, as the popularity of Pingxi Lantern Festival increases, New Taipei City adds two more sky lantern release events on February 11th and February 14th. The most conspicuous one will be held on February 22th, the 15th day of the first month of lunar calendar this year. There will be an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 glowing orange rice paper lanterns released into the night sky above the square. With people writing their wishes on the sky lanterns as it is believed that when the lantern flies into the sky the wishes will be passed to gods above, it will be one of the most magical and breathtaking night that you ever experienced.

This is not the first time that Pingxi Sky Lantern has been brought up in international media. It was also named one of the 52 things to do in 2013 by CNN Travel and one of 14 must-go festivals before you die by the giant travel guide publisher, Fodor’s Travel. The festival continued to gain popularity around the world these years. It attracts more and more visitors to Pingxi. People gather in Pingxi to admire the breathtaking view of more than 100,000 sky lanterns releasing at the same time carrying wishes of all kinds.

When viewing sky lantern in Pingxi, don’t forget to explore Pingxi more by visiting some popular attractions. TravelKing has selected some must visit spots for you to discover the beauty of Pingxi when admiring the fascinating sky lantern releasing.

Shifen Waterfall
Shihfen Waterfall is the biggest waterfall in Taiwan. It is 20 meters high and 40 meters wide and has been described as a place where angels dwell. Due to the unique rock positions and incredible water speed, Shihfen Waterfall is truly an amazing site worth a visit. The waterfall is about a 15-minute walk from Shifen Old Street, and it has three observation decks for easy viewing.

Shifen Old Street
Set by Shifen Railway Station, Shifen Old Street is filled mainly by sky lantern and souvenir shops, grocery stores and restaurants on both sides of the railway. Although Shifen Old Street is now a popular tourist stop, the old street still keeps its nostalgic, relaxing ambience, where one may sometimes find residents sit in front of their houses chatting. Shifen Old Street is not only a great place for photographs, sky lanterns and to see the unique scene of trains running right through the old street, but also a nice place to sample local street foods that will satiate your taste buds.

Pingxi Old Street
Strolling along Pingxi Old Street, travelers may savor the nostalgic ambience and reminiscent atmosphere. The houses were built on the slope; now they have become the stores where visitors can purchase souvenirs and locally flavored snacks. They are also traditional rice stores, pastry shops, and daily use grocery stores for residents. Travelers are welcome to bath in the ancient and casual ambience of the traditional leisure lifestyle perceived in Pingxi Old Street.


An article inspired by National Geographic Travel: Best Winter Trips 2016

Visit 2016 Taiwan Lantern Festival for more Lantern Festival information.
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