Houtong Coal Mine Museum Introduction
The potholes of the Keelung River are a world-class geological landscape, typically found in upstream river areas. They are formed by the erosive action of strong whirlpools carrying sand and gravel on the riverbed. Over time, as water flows rotate around, circular holes known as potholes are created. Between Houtong Station and Sandiaoling Station on the Pingxi Railway line in Ruifang District, the Keelung River cuts into the hard Nuan Nuan sandstone layer, resulting in many smooth depressions on the rock surface, known geologically as potholes, thus forming the Keelung River pothole landscape. Houtong, Ruifang is the easiest place to appreciate the potholes. From under the Yongzi Pond Bridge outside the Houtong Coal Mine Museum Service Center, walking upstream along the steps for about 1,700 meters takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the pothole known locally as the "dimple of the stone." Additionally, visitors can also see the pothole scenery by walking upstream along Keelung River after exiting Houtong Train Station.
