Complete Guide to the North-High Twin Towers: Taiwan's 520 km Double Century Challenge

North-South Twin Towers: The Ultimate Challenge in Taiwan's Cycling World

The North-South Twin Towers, officially known as the "North-South Twin Towers Cycling Challenge," is a ride from the Fugui Cape Lighthouse at Taiwan's northernmost tip to the Eluanbi Lighthouse at the southernmost point, covering approximately 520 kilometers with a total elevation gain of about 2,500 meters. It is hailed as the ultimate endurance challenge in Taiwan's cycling community. Every year, thousands of cyclists sign up to complete this epic journey across the entire western half of Taiwan within a set time limit.

Route Overview

Start: Fugui Cape Lighthouse (Shimen District, New Taipei City)
Finish: Eluanbi Lighthouse (Hengchun Township, Pingtung County)
Total Distance: Approximately 520 km
Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,500 meters
Difficulty Rating: ★★★★★ (Extremely High)
Recommended Completion Time: 24-30 hours

Segment-by-Segment Route Analysis

Segment 1: Fugui Cape Lighthouse to Taoyuan (Approximately 60 km)

Departing from Fugui Cape Lighthouse, the route follows Provincial Highway 2 through Tamsui and Bali, then connects to the alternate surface roads of Provincial Highway 61 on the West Coast Expressway. This stretch is mostly flat, making it a good opportunity to warm up. When departing in the early morning, be sure to have front and rear lights on, as many sections lack street lighting. It is recommended to make your first brief supply stop in Tamsui or Linkou.

Segment 2: Taoyuan to Taichung (Approximately 130 km)

This is the longest and most monotonous stretch of the entire route, heading south along the West Coast Expressway or Provincial Highway 1. Passing through Hsinchu, Miaoli, and Taichung, the terrain is mostly flat plains, but wind direction is a key factor. If you encounter a southerly headwind, this section will be especially draining. It is recommended to schedule a longer rest stop in Zhunan or Houlong to replenish with solid food and water. Traffic becomes busier once you enter the Taichung urban area, so extra caution is required.

Segment 3: Taichung to Chiayi (Approximately 100 km)

After leaving Taichung, the route follows Provincial Highway 1 through Changhua and Yunlin into Chiayi. This stretch is relatively flat, but by midday or afternoon, the high temperatures and sun exposure of the western plains will be a major test. Be sure to take sun protection measures and frequently replenish water and electrolytes. Finding a convenience store in Changhua or Yunlin for a supply stop is a good strategy.

Segment 4: Chiayi to Tainan (Approximately 70 km)

By the time you reach the Chiayi-to-Tainan stretch, the toll on your energy is already quite evident. Many riders begin to feel the impact of fatigue here and need to rely on willpower to keep pushing forward. Traffic in the Tainan urban area requires attention; it is recommended to take the ring roads to avoid the city center. In Tainan, you can take a more complete rest and have a bowl of beef soup to replenish protein.

Segment 5: Tainan to Kaohsiung Nanzih (Approximately 50 km)

Upon entering the Kaohsiung area, you will begin to feel the warmer climate of the south. This stretch heads south along Provincial Highway 1 or Provincial Highway 17, with good road conditions but more complex traffic. When passing through Ciaotou and Nanzih, watch out for large vehicles from the industrial zones.

Segment 6: Kaohsiung to Eluanbi Lighthouse (Approximately 110 km)

This is the final and most challenging segment. After leaving the Kaohsiung urban area, the route follows Provincial Highway 17 through Linyuan and Donggang into Pingtung. After passing Fangliao, rolling hill terrain begins to appear, especially on the stretch from Fenggang to Checheng, which features several memorable short climbs. On the final leg from Checheng to Eluanbi, if you hit the fall-strength wind season, strong crosswinds will make the last 30 kilometers the greatest test of all. When the Eluanbi Lighthouse finally comes into view, all the hardship will transform into an unparalleled sense of accomplishment.

Physical Preparation Recommendations

Completing the North-South Twin Towers requires at least 3-6 months of systematic training. It is recommended to maintain a training volume of over 300 kilometers per week, and to complete at least 2-3 long-distance rides of 200 kilometers or more as simulation training. Core muscle and gluteal endurance training are equally important, as they can effectively reduce the discomfort caused by prolonged riding.

Equipment and Nutrition Strategy

For equipment, an aero frame paired with a comfortable saddle is recommended. For wheels, choose carbon fiber wheels with a 40-50mm rim depth to balance flat-road efficiency and crosswind stability. Carry at least two water bottles, spare inner tubes, CO2 inflators, and a basic tool kit. For clothing, use a jersey with pockets for easy access to supplies.

The nutrition strategy is key to completing the Twin Towers. It is recommended to eat every 30-45 minutes, primarily energy gels and energy bars, supplemented with solid foods such as rice balls and bananas from convenience stores. Drink 500-750 milliliters of water per hour and replenish electrolytes as needed. In the latter half of the ride, caffeine can help fight off drowsiness, but be careful not to overdo it and cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Important Notes

Night riding is an unavoidable part of the Twin Towers challenge. Be sure to equip a high-lumen front light (at least 600 lumens) and a highly visible rear light. A reflective vest or fluorescent accessories are also essential safety gear. Additionally, it is recommended to ride with at least one companion so you can look out for each other. Finally, remember that finishing matters more than speed—pace yourself, and getting home safely is the greatest victory of all.

Related Reading

• Twin Towers Challenge: Complete Guide from the Northern Lighthouse to the Southern Lighthouse
• One-Day Twin Towers 520 km Ride Report: The Ultimate Challenge from Fugui Cape Lighthouse to Eluanbi
• Taiwan Twin Towers Challenge Analysis: Strategy and Preparation for a Time-Limit Challenge
• Taiwan North Coast 200 km One-Day Challenge: A Double Century Ride from Taipei