In a remote cape found on the northern coast of Taiwan, the mountains meet the sea and create one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the country. Welcome to Yehliu Geopark, where millennia of wind and sea erosion and other geological forces have sculpted a part of the Datun Mountains into oddly shaped rock formations extending across the 1.7-kilometer cape.
From above, the area almost appears like a giant turtle sinking into the sea, but from the ground, Yehliu Geopark is a geological wonderland with golden rock formations in all shapes and sizes. The most famous one is dubbed Queen’s Head, a rock formation that’s said to resemble Queen Elizabeth I of England or Queen Nefertiti of Egypt.
The geological park is truly one of the most beautiful attractions in Taiwan. If you’re not sure where to start your journey to this alien-like landscape, we’ve got you covered. Here is a quick, comprehensive guide, so you can make the most of your trip to Yehliu Geopark.
How to Get There
Yehliu Geopark is found in a relatively remote location in the Wanli District, but there are a few different ways to get to this amazing attraction.
From Taipei
Head to Taipei West Bus Station – Terminal A to get a bus ticket to Yehliu Geopark. The trip takes about 90 minutes with the bus dropping off tourists just outside the main entrance.
From Tamsui or Keelung
Hop on the North Coast Shuttle Bus from MRT Tamsui Station or Keelung Railway Station.
Best Time to Visit
Since it is one of the most sought-after destinations in Taiwan, tourists flock to Yehliu Geopark and the rock formations can get quite crowded. It’s best to get to the park early, although sunset offers a particularly stunning view of the rock formations. Keep in mind that the park gets very dark after dusk, which could be quite dangerous for visitors unfamiliar with the terrain.
Yehliu Geopark is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
What to Do at Yehliu Geopark
The park is divided into three different sections with the first two sections from the entrance featuring many of the famous rock formations: Queen’s Head, Fairy’s Shoe, Mushroom Rock, Ice Cream Rock, and more. The narrow third section also has a number of formations like Bean Curd Rock, but it’s more known for the wave-cut platform as well as the ecological reserve found in this part of the park.
Natural forces continue to shape the soft limestone material to this day. Experts predict the iconic Queen’s Head could even topple over in several years with erosion wearing down the monarch’s slender neck thinner and thinner. Visitors are prohibited from touching the delicate rocks.
Wander the sprawling grounds, where many well-preserved trilobite fossils are visible and lodged onto the rock bed. Examine the endless interesting natural features of the geopark, such as mushroom rocks, sea candles, and magnificent panoramic views of the ocean.
Visit the statue of Lin Tien Jane honoring the brave actions of the man who perished trying to save a student from drowning.
Get a KKday ticket to Yehliu Geopark to see all these sights and more!
Bonus: Nearby Destinations
Right next to the geopark is the Yehliu Ocean World, which is a marvelous ocean park where tourists can check out exhibits of marine life surrounding Taiwan waters. Join families flocking to this national attraction and delight over dolphins and sea lions frolicking in the sea. High-dive and synchronized swimming shows offer more entertainment to visitors of the ocean park.
Discover the nearby Keelung, a city that could be easily explored on foot. There are several appealing attractions in the area, including the renowned Miaokou Night Market, Chung Cheng Park, and Qingyu Hall.
From Yehliu, the charming mining towns nearby are also wonderful stops for a day tour. Embark on the tantalizing street food of Jiufen, a town that’s believed to have inspired the renowned film Spirited Away. Release sky lanterns at the old railway in Shifen, then spend a few hours at the Shifen Waterfalls.
Drop by Juming Museum in New Taipei City, where the works of esteemed Taiwanese artist Ju Ming are displayed as well as the works of other artists.
