Escape to Shenkeng: A Convenient Half-Day Trip from Taipei
Looking for a quick weekend getaway? If you're a tofu lover (the real kind!), a half-day trip to Shenkeng is a must! Stroll through the lively Old Street, savor delicious tofu dishes, relax at a cozy café with your partner, or take a hike in the surrounding hills. Shenkeng has something for everyone!
A Brief Intro of Shenkeng（深坑）
Shenkeng's name comes from its unique geography, nestled among mountains with a valley resembling a "deep pit." Originally known for coal mining like Ruifang（瑞芳）, the area later transformed into today's "Tofu Capital（豆腐之鄉，dòu fǔ zhī xiāng）." Don’t miss the local specialties known as Shenkeng's Four Treasures: tofu, tea leaves, green bamboo shoots, and black pork!
Transportation Getting There
No car? No problem! Public transportation will get you there easily. Walk out from Taipei City Hall MRT Station Exit 3, turn left to the bus stop and hop on bus 912. Get off at the "Shenkeng" stop—it's less than a 20-minute ride!
Shenkeng Foodie Itinerary
Grilled Stinky Tofu Under the Big Tree (大樹下串燒臭豆腐)
When you see the tree in the picture, this shop is at your right hand side.
Must try!! I recommended you tried grilled tofu with (Taiwanese) kimchi. It’s right after getting off the bus, you'll see the famous "Beiyi Mung Bean Smoothie" （北一綠豆沙 https://g.co/kgs/Dv2M1Ug）nearby. (Although I’m not a fan of green bean smoothies, so I haven’t tried it...but it’s great to have one in hot summer!)
Walk straight ahead (facing the 7-11 or Beiyi Mung Bean Smoothie, turn left) to the entrance of the Old Street. At the fork in the road, you'll find a bridge. On the right side of the bridge is Grilled Stinky Tofu Under the Big Tree.
Each skewer is NT$55 and absolutely delicious! You can pick from six toppings (like pickled vegetables or cilantro). Don't miss it! Just note the opening hours—they often close by 6 PM, so plan accordingly if you want to take some home.
Shenkeng Old Street
Picture quaint, low-rise buildings no taller than two stories, red brick walls, towering trees, and a stone-paved street—this is the charm of Shenkeng Old Street! At the entrance, there are trash bins, and as you stroll, you’ll find a variety of traditional snacks and tofu dishes along the way!
From grilled tofu and braised tofu to steamed stinky tofu and fried stinky tofu, the options are endless! Don’t forget to pick up some spicy tofu for cooking at home. The grilled sausage vendor on the left side near the street’s entrance is also worth a try!
Black Pork Sausage (深坑徐家黑豬肉香腸)
Wangshuicheng Stinky Tofu (王水成老店風華館)
Stinky Tofu serves in a variety of cooking dishes, but all the time stinky tofu smells bad but tastes amazing! This shop is my first choice here!
- Must-Try: Pork Intestine and Duck Blood (肥腸鴨血)
A bit spicy but perfect with rice! The flavors are surprisingly amazing—you just can’t stop eating. - Must-Try: Bamboo Shoots (桂竹筍)
Bamboo shoots are great for balancing out heavier, greasy dishes. - Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐）
Whether it’s fried tofu or tofu cubes, the rich and fragrant “stinky” aroma makes every bite worthwhile. - Other Options
They also serve seafood (like river shrimp), which we’ve been tempted to try, but we’re always too full. Maybe next time!
menu
After your meal, continue down the Old Street where many interesting stands and shops to see! Spot Jishun Temple, and you’re halfway there! Rain or shine, it’s lively, though narrow arcades mean street food is often eaten standing. Limited public seating by the temple.
Tofu-Themed Treats
1. Bao Gui’s Tofu Mochi (寶桂的店 豆腐麻糬)
Right next to Wang Shui Cheng is Bao Gui’s Tofu Mochi. While it’s technically more like "soy milk mochi," the texture is a delightful mix of tofu and mochi—soft, bouncy, and full of rich soy flavor. It comes with sesame or peanut powder for extra taste, but beware—it’s not low-calorie! They also offer stuffed mochi, which is equally delicious. (Good news: they have online ordering if you want more!)
- Small Box: NT$100 / Large Box: NT$200
2. Tofu Affogato at Corner 107 Café (轉角107咖啡)
At Corner 107 Café, the affogato combines hot Americano with creamy tofu ice cream bursting with soy aroma. The shop can be a bit tricky to find, but there’s a cozy seating area outside to enjoy your treat. (Pro tip: If you don’t see it on the menu, just ask the owner for “Americano + ice cream,” and they’ll serve it up!)
3. Tofu Ice Cream at Big Fatty’s Tofu Ice Cream (大胖子豆腐冰淇淋)
A unique twist with a smoky, tofu-infused flavor and known for its rich and creamy tofu-based ice cream.
Shenkeng Attractions
Arc Cafe
Looking for a cozy spot to relax? Arc Cafe is a great choice. From the Old Street bridge, keep walking straight and take the right fork at the junction (use navigation for help!). If you start feeling like you’re walking past fields, don’t worry—you’re almost there!
The café is on the second floor with an elevator (though you’ll need to climb a few steps to reach it). On the ground floor, you might be greeted by adorable birds like parrots, chickens, or even their pigeon friends. There’s limited parking available if you’re driving.
- The glass walls offer stunning natural light and breathtaking views of lush green trees, distant mountains, and blue skies. Whether it’s sunny or rainy, the atmosphere is sure to lift your spirits.
- On sunny days, it can get a bit bright, so don’t forget your sunglasses!
Good to Know
- There are a few outlets available, but the internet can be spotty/bad.
- The café is family-friendly, bike-friendly, and pet-friendly.
- Payment is cash or bank transfer only, so plan ahead!
This hidden gem is perfect for enjoying nature with good coffee and great vibes.
Shenkeng offers charming old streets, historic sites, and a paradise for tofu lovers. From ancient architecture to delicious stinky tofu, it’s perfect for a memorable day trip. The spots above are my go-to favorites—no ads, just genuine recommendations.
Plan a visit and discover the unique charm of this little town!
*中文版在這裡：台北小旅行-深坑半日遊 (大眾交通）
- A Brief Intro of Shenkeng（深坑）
- Transportation Getting There
- Shenkeng Foodie Itinerary
- Grilled Stinky Tofu Under the Big Tree (大樹下串燒臭豆腐)
- Shenkeng Old Street
- Black Pork Sausage (深坑徐家黑豬肉香腸)
- Wangshuicheng Stinky Tofu (王水成老店風華館)
- Tofu-Themed Treats
- 1. Bao Gui’s Tofu Mochi (寶桂的店 豆腐麻糬)
- 2. Tofu Affogato at Corner 107 Café (轉角107咖啡)
- 3. Tofu Ice Cream at Big Fatty’s Tofu Ice Cream (大胖子豆腐冰淇淋)
- Shenkeng Attractions
- Arc Cafe
- Good to Know
