Ruihou Bike Trail Officially Opens: Ride Through Tunnels Alongside Trains
New Taipei City Tourism and Travel Bureau News Release 113.11.28
Ruihou Bike Trail Officially Opens: Ride Through Tunnels Alongside Trains
【New Taipei City News】With the arrival of cooler weather, it’s the perfect season for outdoor adventures! The Ruihou Bike Trail in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, is quickly becoming a popular choice among visitors due to its unique geographical features, historical relics, and natural scenery. Stretching approximately 6 kilometers, this bike trail is transformed from a former railway line and tunnel system. Its gentle terrain and picturesque views make it ideal for a day trip, especially for train enthusiasts who find themselves captivated by its charm.
The Ruihou Bike Trail starts at Ruifang Railway Station and ends at Houtong Railway Station, running parallel to the Keelung River and the Yilan Railway Line. The flat and comfortable route is accessible to novice cyclists and families alike. As visitors cycle along the trail, they are greeted with riverside scenery and fresh air, creating a tranquil escape from the city. The most unique aspect of the trail is the close interaction with the railway. Cyclists can enjoy the thrilling experience of trains rushing by at close range, especially when the Taroko Express roars past—a moment that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The highlight of the Ruihou Bike Trail is the "Houtong Old Tunnel Cluster," built during the Japanese colonial period. Comprising Yuanshan Tunnels No. 1, 2, and 3, these tunnels were once crucial single-track passages on the Taiwan Railways Administration Yilan Line. After the Yilan Line's dual-track upgrade in 1985, the tunnels gradually faded into history. The New Taipei City Government has revitalized the old tunnels into a bike path, preserving their original stone arches and aged interior features. Riding through the moss-covered, timeworn tunnels under dappled light and shade feels like a journey through history, evoking the elegance of a century past. Locals affectionately refer to this cluster of tunnels, situated closely together, as "San Ye Pong Kong" in Taiwanese—a name imbued with artistic and romantic sentiment.
Visitors looking to explore the Ruihou Bike Trail can start their journey at Ruifang Railway Station, where YouBike rentals are conveniently available. After completing the trail at Houtong Railway Station, additional attractions await. These include the Ruifang Coal Dressing Plant, which provides insights into northern Taiwan’s mining culture and the lives of miners, as well as themed exhibits like the Vision Hall, miners’ baths, and miners’ dormitories. Houtong Cat Village, recognized by CNN as one of the world’s top six cat-lover destinations, is another must-see. For eco-conscious travelers, the Sandiaoling Eco-Friendly Tunnel, a top low-carbon travel destination, is also nearby and makes for an excellent addition to the itinerary. Whether you're a train enthusiast or a nature lover, the Ruihou Bike Trail offers countless surprises and memorable experiences.
Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable cycling adventure in the cool weather! For more travel information, please visit the relevant links.
【This news release has been translated by ChatGPT.】
