Complete Guide to Taiwan's Northeast Coast Golden Coast Cycling Route

Northeast Coast: Taiwan’s Most Beautiful Coastal Highway

Taiwan’s Northeast Coast stretches from Keelung to Toucheng in Yilan. This stretch of coastline is one of the most spectacular road cycling routes in all of Taiwan. The blue Pacific Ocean, strange rock formations, fishing village charm, and the undulating coastal terrain make this route full of surprises and challenges.

Route Overview

Section Highlights

1. Keelung to Ruifang (approx. 20K)

Departing from Keelung Harbor, passing through Shen’ao Fishing Harbor. Although this section passes through the urban fringe, you can see the silhouette of Keelung Islet on the sea along the way.

Recommended stops:

• Shen’ao Fishing Harbor: Seafood market
• Badouzi: National Museum of Marine Science and Technology

2. Ruifang to Gongliao (approx. 25K)

This is the most spectacular section of the entire route. The road hugs the cliff face closely, with the Pacific Ocean on the right:

• Nanya Rock Formations: Strange rock landscapes sculpted by ocean waves
• Bitoujiao Lighthouse: Taiwan’s northeasternmost lighthouse
• Longdong Bay: Taiwan’s largest rock climbing area
• Yanliao: Memorial site of the anti-Japanese landing

3. Gongliao to Toucheng (approx. 35K)

Entering Yilan territory, the coastline becomes slightly gentler, but remains beautiful:

• Fulong Beach: A famous beach
• Shicheng: A tiny fishing village
• Daxi Fishing Harbor: Yilan’s famous fresh-catch fishing harbor

Gradient Analysis

The Northeast Coast route features several notable climbs:

Best Riding Seasons

Resupply Points

Return Options

Train: Take a train back to Taipei from Toucheng Station (requires packing your bike or using training wheels)

Bus: Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Northeast Coast Line

Ride back the same way: Suitable for riders who want to accumulate more mileage

Notes

• Northeast monsoon: Strong northeast winds in autumn and winter, possible headwinds
• Narrow roads: Some sections have narrow lanes, watch for oncoming traffic
• Weekend crowds: Heavy holiday traffic, especially on the Fulong section
• Bring a rain jacket: Weather is changeable, rain can come at any time

Related Reading

• Taiwan’s Most Beautiful Cycling Coast Route: The North Coast Ride from Keelung to Yilan
• North Coast Cycling Route: The Coastal Ride from Tamsui to Keelung
• Taitung Coastal Highway Bike Tour: The Most Beautiful Cycling Scenery on the East Coast
• Taiwan Coastline Cycling Map: Complete Route Guide from the North Coast to Hengchun