Old Caoling Tunnel Introduction
The Old Caoling Tunnel spans between Fulong in New Taipei and Shicheng in Yilan. It is a key project of the Taiwan Railway Administration's Yilan Line, and when it opened in 1924, it was the longest railway tunnel in Southeast Asia, measuring 2,167 meters in length, playing a crucial role in the transportation between Taipei and Yilan. The northern and southern entrances of the Old Caoling Tunnel are inscribed with the calligraphy "Where White Clouds Fly" and "Heavenly Danger Control," commemorating the arduous engineering work of that time. After the double-tracking and electrification of the Taiwan Railway, the Old Caoling Tunnel was closed and reopened in 2008 as a bicycle path. The folk song "Diu Diu Torn," inspired by "The train arrives at Idu, Ah Mo Idu Diu, Ay Yo Pang Kong Ne...," is a classic Taiwanese folk song that was created based on the experience of a train passing through the Old Caoling Tunnel. The Old Caoling Tunnel is designed with the concept of a "Railway Museum," where the ground surface of the bike path mimics the form of railway tracks, depicting a railway image, and the lighting fixtures use vintage oil lamp shades. Riding a bicycle through the Old Caoling Tunnel, accompanied by train sound effects, feels like cycling in a cool iron support road tunnel, creating a nostalgic and fun experience. The circular bicycle path is the first bicycle tunnel in northern Taiwan converted from a railway tunnel. Currently, the Old Caoling Tunnel allows pedestrians and cyclists on weekdays, while on weekends, it is open only to cyclists. The Old Caoling Tunnel is part of the circular bike path that starts from Fulong Station, and after passing through the tunnel, one is greeted by the stunning Pacific Ocean views and Guishan Island. Continuing along the coastline, cyclists can pass by Laomei Geological Park, Sandiaojiao Lighthouse, and Ma'ao Fishing Village before returning to Fulong, covering a total distance of about 20 kilometers, making it the premier route for cycling in the northeast corner.
