Houtong Introduction
Hokuto, known for its adorable cats, is rich in coal deposits and has attracted many people to extract black gold, making it a major hub of Taiwan's coal industry in the past. The glorious past has forged its current cultural heritage. Today, Hokuto still retains abundant mining relics, including pits, trolleys, coal transport bridges, miner dormitories, and the Ruishan Mining Company. Visitors can ride the trolley through the coal transport tunnels to experience the hardships faced by miners, and this unique experience will definitely leave a lasting impression. Did you know that Hokuto once had the most advanced coal mining equipment? When you take the train passing through Hokuto, are you drawn to the prominent words "Coal Production Yuguo/Ruishan Mining Company" on the black building's exterior? In the past, due to coal extraction and its geographical advantages, Hokuto boasted the most advanced washing and coal production equipment of its time. After the Yilan Line train service was opened, it became a key town supporting Taiwan's industrial fuel. The coal production factory with the words "Coal Production Yuguo" on the exterior stands as the best testament. To explore Hokuto’s splendor, you might want to walk to the coal transport bridge to view the spectacular coal production factory of the past. The bridge offers a panoramic view of the entire town and mining relics, along with the breathtaking geological beauty of the Keelung River’s potholes. At night, the coal transport bridge, with its lights reflecting in the Keelung River, becomes a must-capture night scene for photographers.
