Its main tributary is the Beishi River which originates in Shuangxi District, New Taipei City at an elevation of 700 meters (2,300 ft).

The river is one of the main sources for drinking water in Taipei City.

The first bridge over the river was constructed in 1937 and at 200 meters (660 ft) long connected the areas of Zhonghe and Xindian.

On 28 May 1948, a fire broke out on a train crossing the Sindian River Bridge.

The fire killed 21 passengers, with an additional 43 presumed dead, and is the deadliest train accident in Taiwanese history.