My dad came to Taiwan yesterday and I’m wondering what time and place would be best to see the dragon boats? Someone said I should go to Tamsui.
Saw this link for “Dragon Boat Race Locations in Taiwan” on Foreigners in Taiwan twitter stream. They’ve also got this blog post from a few days ago, which may be more useful:
The links make no mention of Danshui. I’ve lived in Danshui for well over ten years and have never noticed dragon boat races - I think it’s more on the river systems - but then again, the big holidays mean I do NOT go on the waterfront after 10am or so.
Be careful because it is really hot out there. Bring the 1.5 liter bottle of water and cold compresses.
Best location in Taipei:
Try to get the picture of the boats with the Grand Hotel or the Dazhi bridge in the background.
Do people actually do that…? I just walked 4-5 km along the riverside to the Wanhua produce market and, while it’s way too hot for me to be comfortable, especially after a couple of days at home with AC, there’s no chance I’m going to take cold compresses with me. 
I’m not even 100% sure what they are - like gel packs you keep in the freezer until you need them?
I should probably have taken some cold water, but I was planning to go to Costco after so didn’t want the extra weight. It’s easy enough to nip into a convenience store if one needs a drink.
You’ve never seen people having slapped a wet towel on there head?
Nope! I don’t recall that I’ve ever done it either.
At the dragon boat races there are enough food and drink stands to not get in trouble.
Hikers do that often and also drape it around the back of their neck.
There are some Japanese cold thingies you buy at Cosmed/Watsons/Japanese pharmacies. I call them compresses but I am not a Native. All I know is that if you are 4 hours taking pics and chasing the boats, they feel like Heaven under your armpits, back of the neck and other hot areas.
There are also cooling wet wipes, scented. Also feel so good.
Not near enough. As far as I can see.
From the flood gates to the race site it is a bit of a trek under the sun.
I put ice in a thermos, then pour water in the thermos and drink/splash on as required.
If you’re looking for plans this weekend, the Dragon Boat Festival races are officially kicking off! It’s a great chance to grab some zongzi, hear the drums, and catch some live racing.
Races are happening all over the island, but if you’re in the north, here are the main spots to hit up:
- Taipei: Dajia Riverside Park (大佳河濱公園) — right under the Dazhi Bridge. (June 19–21)
- New Taipei City: Luzhou Breeze Park (微風運河水域). (June 19–20)
- Keelung: Badouzi Harbor (八斗子漁港). (June 19)
- Taoyuan: Longtan Lake (龍潭大池). (June 19–21)
Races usually start around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM and run throughout the day.
If you are down south or want the full schedule with exact addresses, temple locations, and background info, the guys over at Foreigners in Taiwan put together a really solid, comprehensive breakdown:
Foreigners in Taiwan: Dragon Boat Festival Guide
Enjoy the long weekend, and happy balancing eggs tomorrow at noon! Let us know if you’re heading out to any of the riversides.
Also some taiwanese will do "The Ritual " Place a bottle or bucket of water directly in the sun.The most auspicious time to do this is at noon (usually between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM), when the festival’s yang (positive) energy is believed to be at its peak.This sun-charged “noon water” (午時水) is traditionally thought to be cleansing and bring good fortune. Some people drink it or use it for bathing.
In my case my tell me we will use for bathing 