Houtong Introduction
Houtong, famous for its adorable cats, is rich in coal seams that once attracted many to extract black gold, making it a key area in Taiwan's coal mining industry. The glorious past has given rise to a deep cultural heritage, and today, Houtong still retains numerous mining relics such as the mine pits, trolleys, coal transport bridges, miners' dormitories, and the Ruishan Mining Company. Visitors can ride trolleys through the coal transport tunnels and experience the hardships faced by miners, creating a unique experience that will surely be unforgettable. Did you know that Houtong once had the most advanced coal extraction equipment? When you take the train passing through Houtong, did you notice the large characters "Production of Coal for the Nation/Ruishan Mining Company" on the black building's exterior? Due to its coal extraction efforts and geographical advantages, Houtong boasted the most advanced washing and coal production equipment of its time, and after the opening of the Yilan train line, it became a vital source of fuel for Taiwan's industrial power. The exterior of the coal plant with the slogan "Production of Coal for the Nation" stands as the best testament to this legacy. To get a glimpse of the majestic former coal factory, you might want to head to the coal transport bridge, where you can overlook the entire town and mining sites, while also appreciating the geological beauty of the Keelung River's potholes. When night falls, the coal transport bridge, illuminated by lights reflecting in the Keelung River, becomes a must-capture night scene for photographers.
