Jinguashi 金瓜石

Shuinandong, Jinguashi and Jiufen are former mining towns in Ruifang District, New Taipei City. Together they preserve living records of Taiwan’s mining history and culture, each distinguished by the mining methods it used: the simple charm of Shuinandong, the tranquility of Jinguashi, and the traces of miners’ nightlife in Jiufen. Although the gold mines have closed, these towns still draw visitors who come to explore and dream.

The three towns are connected by winding mountain roads, so a driver is convenient for moving between them. Many old mining sites sit on slopes with steps, so visitors with limited mobility should plan for shorter walks.

In Shuinandong, the abandoned “13-Level Smelter” evokes the image of Pompeii. The Yin Yang Sea, with its yellow and blue waters, and the beautiful Golden Waterfall are other attractions here. Jinguashi is a quiet hillside town. And along the old lanes of bustling Jiufen, one can find gold mines of history and culture. Together, these areas offer welcome comfort to the road-weary traveler and provide plenty of food for thought.