Taiwan's North Coast and Yehliu Geopark

Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing Near Taipei

Jul 18, 2009 Erin De Santiago

Just north of Taipei, Yehliu Geopark is home to fascinating rock formations, unique terrain, and abundant nature, making it one of the best must-see sights on the island.

Yehliu is a cape on the north coast of Taiwan, stretching a massive 1700 meters into the sea. Geological forces at work on Datun Mountain gave rise to the area as the mountain was pushed up from the depths below. With the help of sea erosion and weathering, this area has some very distinctive geological features believed to be 10-25 million years old. As the limestone and calcium carbonate surface is more resistant to erosion, the resulting landscape is fractured and filled with giant rocks, pot holes, and fossils. These rocks make for some breathtaking scenery and certainly worthy of at least a day trip to the cape. Strolling around, one might find themselves wondering whether they just stepped on the set of a sci-fi movie versus a geological park in Taiwan!

Types of Geological Rock Formations Found at Yehliu Geopark

The most common types found on the cape are mushroom rocks, with about 180 dotting the coastline. The most famous of these is the Queen's Head rock, which is the iconic landmark for the region. It’s believed the Millennium Queen is about 4,000 years old. Sadly, continuous exposure to wind, sun, and rain has caused the Queen's neck to become thinner through the years. Tourists should avoid touching the rock to help preserve her beauty for future generations. In fact, a park representative may be present on busy days to stop those who just cannot resist temptation.

Other formations include honeycomb rocks, which get their name from an obvious resemblance to a honeycomb. Their uneven surfaces allow sea water to pool, creating holes of erosion and the resulting honeycomb appearance.

Ginger rocks are another interesting formation type. These rocks are a bit softer on the surface, rendering them less resistant to sea erosion. Earth movement caused them to squeeze together, resulting in a shape reminiscent of a culinary staple in Taiwan - ginger root.

Bean curd rocks also called chessboard rocks, are a series of smooth and level rocks separated by sharp joints that were forced into each other. The bean curd appearance is from those joints being further eroded by the sea water, creating grooves that render them similar to a chessboard or bean curd.

Pot Holes, Fossils, and Terrain at Yehliu Geopark

Pot holes fill the landscape in Yehliu and are home to seaweed, tiny fish, and small crabs. Well preserved fossils are also plentiful in the region, the most recognizable being the sea urchin.

The geological forces at work have resulted in asymmetrical terrain, which tends to be gentle on the east and steep towards the west. Known as the Monocline Spine, the intense bending and twisting this region has endured is visible throughout the amazing striations in the rock layers.

Types of Birds Found on Taiwan's North Coast

Bird watchers will be happy to know several species call Yehliu home, whether it's year-round or just seasonally. Some birds seek refuge from the winter elements and from the seemingly inevitable stream of typhoons in the summer months. While birds like the Reef Egret are year-round residents, others like the rare Hoopoe are seen only in March. Best bird watching season is said to be in the spring (March-April) and also fall (October-November).

Directions and Hours for Yehliu Geopark

Yehliu Visitor Center is located at No. 167-1 Gang Dong Road, Yehliu Village, Wanli Township. Tel: (02)2492-2016. The park is open 7 days a week, 8am-5pm. Admission: NT50 adults, NT25, children.

Utilizing public transportation, there are several bus options from Taipei City, Keelung, and the Danshui MRT station. For those choosing to drive, Provincial Highway 2 is the main highway and there is ample parking available (about NT100). Specific directions and transportation options can be found on the Geopark's website.

Other Things to Do at Yehliu and Wanli Township

Because of its proximity to the ocean, the area is rich in seafood and there are a number of open air markets and restaurants in the general vicinity. "Gifts of Yehliu,” located right near the entrance to the Geopark, showcases dried fish and other notable seafood specialties from this region.

The Geopark shares a parking lot with the Yehliu Ocean World, which can be a great draw for families. Ocean World features an aquarium and various shows, including sea lions, dolphins, and whales. Sunday seems to be the best day to visit as there are five shows available, versus only three Monday through Friday and four on Saturdays. Admission: NT350 adults, NT300 children.

Yehliu is a must-see destination for tourists and locals alike. The impressive display of nature and geological forces at work make this a one-of-a-kind and truly unforgettable experience.

Source:

Yehliu Geopark Website

The copyright of the article Taiwan's North Coast and Yehliu Geopark in S Asia/China Travel is owned by Erin De Santiago. Permission to republish Taiwan's North Coast and Yehliu Geopark in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.