Houtong Coal Mine坑 Introduction
The potholes of the Keelung River are a world-class geographical landscape, typically found in upstream river regions. The formation of potholes occurs due to the powerful swirling currents carrying sand and gravel that erode the riverbed. Over time, as the water flows, circular holes, known as potholes, are formed. Between the Houtong Station and Sandiaoling Station on the Pingxi Railway in Ruifang District, the riverbed of the Keelung River cuts into the hard Nuan Nuan sandstone layer, resulting in many smooth depressions on the rock surface, which are classified as potholes from a geomorphological perspective, creating the Keelung River pothole landscape. Houtong in Ruifang is the most accessible place to appreciate the potholes. From under the Wengzi Pond Bridge outside the Houtong Coal Mine Museum Service Center, walk approximately 1,700 meters upstream along the stepped revetment for about 30 minutes to see the Houtong pothole, known locally as the “dimple of the stone.” Additionally, after exiting Houtong Train Station, you can also walk along Houtong Road upstream along the Keelung River to see the pothole scenery.
