Old Caoling Tunnel Introduction
The Old Caoling Tunnel spans between Fulong in New Taipei and Shicheng in Yilan, serving as a key project of the Taiwan Railways Administration's Yilan Line. Opened in 1924, it was the longest railway tunnel in Southeast Asia at the time, measuring 2,167 meters in length, and played a crucial role in transportation between Taipei and Yilan. The north and south entrances of the tunnel feature inscriptions "Where White Clouds Fly" and "Control the Heavenly Danger," commemorating the arduous construction efforts of that era. The Old Caoling Tunnel was decommissioned after the electrification and double-tracking of the Taiwan Railway, and it reopened in 2008 as a bicycle path. The folk song "Diudiu Tongzi," inspired by the line "When the train arrives at Yidu," captures the scene of trains passing through the Old Caoling Tunnel. Designed with the concept of a "railway museum," the tunnel’s bike path resembles a railway track, evoking railway imagery, while vintage oil lamp shades provide unique lighting. Riding through the Old Caoling Tunnel, accompanied by train sound effects, creates a nostalgic and fun atmosphere reminiscent of riding through a cool tunnel. The Circular Line bicycle path, as the first railway tunnel converted into a bike tunnel in Northern Taiwan, currently allows pedestrians and bicycles on weekdays, while only bicycles are permitted on weekends. The Old Caoling Tunnel is part of the circular bicycle path that begins at Fulong Station; after passing through the tunnel, riders are greeted by breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Guishan Island. Continuing along the coastline, the route passes by the Laomei Geological Park, Sandiaojiao Lighthouse, and Maao Fishing Village before returning to Fulong, covering approximately 20 kilometers, making it the top choice for cycling enthusiasts in the Northeast Coast.
