Shui Nan Cave Thirteen Layers Ruins Introduction
The Tai-Jin Old Mine Factory, located near ShuiNan Cave and the Yin-Yang Sea, is also known as the Thirteen Layers Ruins. It was once the largest ore refining plant in the ShuiNan Cave, JinGuaShi, and JiuFen areas. The plant, used for refining gold, silver, and copper ores, resembles a beautiful abandoned palace from afar, and the 2-kilometer-long derelict flue that looms over the mountain adds a touch of mystery. To witness the unique desolate beauty of the Thirteen Layers Ruins, the best viewpoints are from the ShuiNan Cave parking lot, and the perspective from the Changren Community Viewing Pavilion is particularly stunning. The story of the Thirteen Layers Ruins, also known as the ShuiNan Cave Refinery, began in 1933 (the 8th year of the Showa era). It was a crucial facility for ore mining and precious metal refining during the Japanese colonial period. After Taiwan’s retrocession, it was taken over by Taiwan Metal Mining Corporation, which built a new smelting plant and divided the structure into a concentration plant and a smelting plant. With the passage of time, the once-thriving mining industry gradually declined, and operations ceased in 1987, with management taken over by Taiwan Power Company. Illuminating the Thirteen Layers to revive its former glory, the ShuiNan Cave Refinery holds a significant place in Taiwan's mining culture and carries an indelible historical significance. In September 2019, Taiwan Power Company collaborated with international lighting artistry master Zhou Lian and emerging artist He Cai-rou in the public art project "Illuminate Thirteen Layers." The Thirteen Layers Ruins, illuminated by golden lights, seems to traverse time, allowing people to witness the grandeur of the Golden Mountain Town once again. Travelers who enjoy night photography should not miss the night view of the Thirteen Layers. *Fixed lighting schedule: Illuminated from 18:00 to 21:00.*
