Houtong Coal Mine Introduction
The potholes of the Keelung River are a world-class geological landscape, commonly found in the upper reaches of rivers. The formation of potholes occurs due to strong eddies carrying gravel that erode the riverbed. Over time, as the water flow rotates the gravel, circular holes known as potholes are formed. Between the Houtong Station and the Sandiaoling Station on the Pingxi Branch Line in Ruifang District, the riverbed of the Keelung River cuts into the hard Nuan Nuan sandstone layer, creating many smooth pits on the rock surface, which are termed potholes in geomorphology, resulting in the pothole landscape of the Keelung River. Houtong in Ruifang is the easiest place to access and enjoy the view of the potholes. From the Wuzi Pond Bridge under the visitor center of the Houtong Coal Mine Museum area, walk upstream for about 1,700 meters along the steps, which takes around 30 minutes one way to see the local potholes known as "the dimples of stones." Additionally, after exiting Houtong Station, you can also walk along Houtong Road upstream along the Keelung River to see the pothole scenery.
