Shuinan Cave Thirteen Layers Ruins Introduction
The Taiwan Gold Refinery, located near Shuinandong and the Yin Yang Sea, is also known as the Thirteen Levels Ruins. Once the largest refining factory in the Shuinandong, Jinguashi, and Jiufen area, this facility was used for the extraction of gold, silver, and copper ores. From a distance, it resembles an abandoned beautiful palace, while the derelict smoke stack that sits atop the mountain stretches 2 kilometers, appearing and disappearing among the hills, adding an air of mystery. If you want to witness the unique desolation of the Thirteen Levels Ruins, the best viewpoints are from the Shuinandong parking lot looking up and from the viewing pavilion at Changren Community. The story of the Thirteen Levels Ruins dates back to when it was known as the Shuinandong Refinery, constructed in 1933 (the 8th year of the Showa era). This facility was crucial for the extraction and refinement of precious metals during the Japanese colonial period. After Taiwan's retrocession, it was taken over by the Taiwan Metal Mining Corp, which built a new refinery, dividing the building into a selection plant and a smelting plant. As time passed, the once-thriving mining industry dwindled, and operations ceased in 1987, with management then taken over by Taiwan Power Company. Illuminating the Thirteen Levels to restore its former glory, the Shuinandong Refinery holds a significant place in Taiwan's mining culture, with an undeniable historical importance. In September 2019, a public art project titled "Illuminating the Thirteen Levels" was jointly created by Taiwan Power Company, international lighting artist Zhou Lian, and emerging artist He Cai-rou. The Thirteen Levels Ruins, illuminated by golden lights, seem to transport visitors through a time tunnel, allowing them to once again behold the grandeur of the past Gold Mountain City. Travelers who love night photography should not miss the night view of the Thirteen Levels. ※ Fixed lighting hours: from 18:00 to 21:00.
