Dawulun Fort Introduction
Da Wu Lun Fort is located northwest of Keelung, on top of Da Wu Lun Mountain behind Waiyukou Fishing Port, which is above Lover's Lake. Due to its strategic terrain, it became an important stronghold guarding the west side of Keelung Harbor. In the 20th year of the Daoguang period, during the First Opium War in 1840, and in the 10th year of the Guangxu period, during the Sino-French War in 1884, the Qing government sent troops to garrison it. However, based on its structure and design characteristics, it appears to have been rebuilt during the Japanese occupation. Da Wu Lun Fort is a designated national historic site, located at the summit of Da Wu Lun Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 231 meters, offering a commanding view of Lover's Lake to the west, Da Wu Lun Bay to the north, and Keelung Harbor and the East China Sea to the east. The entrance to the fort area features a pebble path shaded by trees. Upon reaching the fort area at the mountain top, one can still see the stone structures of the fort, gun platform, ammunition storage, transportation fort, and mechanical slope. Although the cannons no longer exist, distinct traces of the gun mounts remain on the ground. The Da Wu Lun Fort ruins are well-preserved, including the camp entrance path, cave barracks, East Ridge Fort, North Ridge Fort, South Ridge Fort, bulletproof trenches, and reservoirs. The area is tranquil and lush with greenery. From the short walls along the circular path, one can enjoy a panoramic view of Keelung Islet, Waiyukou Fishing Village, Badouzi, and the splendid landscape of the northern coast, making it a great place for sightseeing and conversations, often chosen by wedding photography companies for its romantic ambiance. Source: Keelung City Government
