Although Jiufen is famous for its old street culture, it is actually the best starting point for exploring the Northeast Coast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area. This national-level scenic area covers the most exquisite coastal geological landscapes of Taiwan's northeast coast. Starting from Jiufen, a 30-minute drive can connect you to breathtaking sea erosion landforms and ecological wonders.
A Unique Geological Journey Through Time
The most fascinating aspect of the Northeast Coast National Scenic Area is the ability to witness millions of years of geological evolution in a short distance. The sandstone and shale here have been eroded by the sea for tens of millions of years, forming Taiwan's most abundant coastal landform museum. Compared with scenic areas in other counties and cities, the geological diversity of the Northeast Coast is unparalleled in Taiwan, with each turn revealing rock formations from different eras.
With the trend of Chinese outbound tourists increasing by 175%, the Northeast Coast has become a top choice for international visitors to understand Taiwan's geological wonders, especially photography enthusiasts and geology researchers.
Must-Visit Geological Wonder Spots
Nanya Strange Rocks: Nature's Carving Exhibition
Located about 15 minutes' drive from Jiufen, Nanya boasts Taiwan's most spectacular sea-eroded weathering rocks. These rock walls over 20 meters high have been eroded by the northeast monsoon and waves, forming natural carvings that resemble various animals. The best viewing time is between 3-5 PM, when the light makes the rock textures more three-dimensional. Parking is NT$30 per hour, but the geological landscape here is far worth more than the ticket price.
Bitou Cape Trail: 360-Degree Ocean View Geology Classroom
Bitou Cape is a 20-minute drive from Jiufen, and this trail is considered Taiwan's most beautiful geological hiking route. The entire trail is about 3 km long, where you can closely observe sea erosion platforms, sea caves, honeycomb rocks and other landforms along the way. The lighthouse section offers the best views, where you can see the junction of the Pacific Ocean and the Taiwan Strait simultaneously. It is recommended to bring binoculars; with some luck, you might spot flocks of migratory birds passing through here.
Longdongwan Cape Trail: A Geology Paradise for Climbers
For travelers who love challenges, Longdong's four-edged sandstone provides the best natural climbing venue in northern Taiwan. Even if you don't climb, the geological profile here is worth observing carefully. The clearly visible sedimentary layers on the rock walls serve as the best material for understanding Taiwan's mountain-building movements. The best times to visit are March-May and September-November, avoiding the summer heat and winter northeast monsoon. Caoling Historic Trail: A Dual Experience of History and Geology This historic trail connecting New Taipei City and Yilan not only holds historical significance but also features spectacular geological landscapes along the way. The section starting from Dali Tiangan Temple offers a clear view of the Xuehua Mountain Range extending to the sea. During the silver grass season in November each year, the golden silver grass and dark gray rocks form a strong contrast, making it a dream scene for photography enthusiasts. Heping Island Park: Sea Erosion Landform Museum Although it takes about 40 minutes' drive from Jiufen to Keelung, the geological diversity of Heping Island is definitely worth the trip. The tofu rocks, mushroom rocks, and sea erosion gullies here form Taiwan's most complete coastal landform display. The ticket is NT$60, but the park has well-equipped geological interpretation facilities, making it especially suitable for families with children. Transportation Arrangements Starting from Jiufen, it is recommended to rent a car or hire a private vehicle for exploration, as the distances between attractions are not far but public transportation is inconvenient. Keelung Bus has some routes to Bitou Cape and Nanya, but the frequency is limited. The most economical way is to take the train to Ruifang Station, then transfer to Keelung Bus Route 856. Cost Estimate
Most attractions are free to visit, with only parking fees of NT$30-50 per hour. Heping Island Park costs NT$60, and Longdong Four Seasons Bay charges extra for climbing equipment if needed. It is recommended to prepare a budget of NT$500-800 for transportation and small expenses. Best Time to Visit
Avoid summer afternoon thunderstorms (July-August) and strong northeast monsoon in winter (December-February). Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) have the most stable weather and calmer sea conditions. Tides are important for observing sea erosion landforms; it is recommended to check the daily tide table. Low tide reveals more geological structures normally covered by seawater. Bring a magnifying glass and a geology hammer (if allowed) to observe rock textures more carefully. Most rocks in the Northeast Coast are sedimentary rocks and relatively fragile; please do not arbitrarily hammer or take specimens. The wind and waves at the sea are strong; please maintain a safe distance from rock walls. It is recommended to download the "Taiwan Geology" APP to instantly check the geological background information of various locations. Many visitors rush to take photos at different spots, but geological landscapes require patient observation to appreciate the time scale of their formation. Take some time to sit down and imagine the millions of years of changes these rocks have undergone; it will make the entire journey more meaningful.Practical Information
Geology Observation Tips
