Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TRAIN
From Taipei (fast/slow train NT$76/49, 40/50 minutes) trains leave every 30 minutes.
Exit at Ruifang, cross the road and catch a bus the last 15 minutes to Jiufen/Jinguashi.
Expect to stand on the train.
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Bitou Cape
One of three beautiful emerald capes along the north coast, Bitou Cape (Bítóu Jiǎo) is of
note for its sea-eroded cliffs, fantastic views along the coast, and the
Bitou Cape Trail
(Bítóu Jiǎo Bùdào), which is like an easier version of the nearby and more majestic Caol-
ing Historic Trail.
The trail starts near the cape's bus stop before a tunnel (head up the road on the left)
and takes a couple of hours to walk. One excellent route follows the path along the bluffs
towards the ligthhouse (passing what must be the nicest setting for an elementary school
in Taiwan) and then heads down a set of steep stairs and returns along the seashore on a
sea-eroded platform called the
Fisherman's Pathway
. It's a geological classroom down
here as well as a fabulously scenic walk.
Maps of the route in English are located along the trails. To get here from Ruifang
30 to 40 minutes)
heading to Fulong. Buses run hourly from 9am to 4pm weekdays and
8am to 4pm weekends. You can also catch hourly buses in Keelung from the
Keelung
Bus Company
(
02-2433 6111;
www.kl-bus.com.tw
)
station.
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Longdong
Just through the tunnel past Bitou Cape is Longdong (Lóngdòng), a well-known diving
and snorkelling spot. Within walking distance of the park is an area described as having
the best
rock climbing
in Taiwan and some of the best coastal climbs anywhere. One
standout feature of the area is the wealth of climbs at all levels. Pick up a copy of
Rock
Climbing Taiwan
by Matt Robertson and check out his brilliant website
(
www.climbstone.com
)
, which includes details on food and lodging in the area for
climbers.
To get here from Ruifang train station or Jiufen take a
Taiwan Tourism Shuttle Bus
