Northeast Coast Route 102 Seaside Ride: A Hidden Gem of Mountains and Sea in the Greater Taipei Area

Introduction

County Road 102 spans about 27 kilometers, running from Ruifang’s Jinguashi through Bu Yan Ting to Shuangxi. It is the most famous “mountain-and-sea highway” in the Taipei metropolitan area. With a maximum elevation of about 600 meters, the route passes attractions such as the Gold Museum, the Bu Yan Ting lookout, and Shuangxi Old Street, making it a classic first choice for cyclists on a one-day trip.

Basic Route Information

Segment Analysis

Segment 1: Ruifang → Jinguashi (9 km, 350m climb)
Starting from Ruifang, head up Ruijin Road (North 34), passing Jiufen Old Street. The gradient holds at 5–6%, serving as a warm-up stretch. The Gold Museum in Jinguashi is a must-stop attraction, at an elevation of 280 meters.

Segment 2: Jinguashi → Bu Yan Ting (10 km, 320m climb)
After leaving Jinguashi, join County Road 102 heading toward Shuangxi. Bu Yan Ting is the highest point on County Road 102, at 588 meters above sea level. With the ocean on one side and mountain ridges on the other, the view has earned it the nickname “Taiwan’s Switzerland.”

Segment 3: Bu Yan Ting → Shuangxi (10 km, descent)
Descending from Bu Yan Ting to Shuangxi involves a drop of nearly 500 meters with many sharp turns. Watch out for oncoming traffic and scooters.

Segment 4: Shuangxi → Fulong (17 km, flat)
Follow Provincial Highway 2C through Gongliao to Fulong, where coastal views open up. The Fulong bento box and beach make for a classic finish.

Must-Visit Attractions

Seasonal Recommendations

• Spring: In April–May, silver grass blooms around Bu Yan Ting (small silver grass in May), creating spectacular scenery.
• Summer: Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent; an early start is recommended.
• Autumn: October–November is the peak silver grass season, the most beautiful time on County Road 102.
• Winter: Cold, damp, and foggy, with poor visibility on the descent; it is best avoided.

Practical Tips

• Return Trip: Take a local train from Fulong Railway Station back to Taipei (bicycle car available), about 1.5 hours.
• Supplies: Convenience stores and restaurants are available in Ruifang, Jinguashi, Shuangxi, and Fulong.
• Road Conditions: The descent on County Road 102 has many steep curves; keep your speed below 40 km/h.
• Photo Spots: Bu Yan Ting, near Shuangxi Mudan Station, and Fulong Beach.
• Route Extensions: You can extend the ride to Mao’ao Fishing Village, Longdong, and Bitou Cape for a full 80–100 km version.

Conclusion

County Road 102 is the “afternoon tea route” for cyclists in the Taipei area — intensity that doesn’t overwhelm, rich scenery, complete supply options, and a finish with bento boxes and a beach. Next time you’re looking for a short, high-value route, County Road 102 is definitely the top choice.

Related Reading

• Bu Yan Ting and the Lonely Road: Taiwan’s Tuscany Between Shuangxi and Ruifang
• South Link Highway Segment: The Mountain-and-Sea Border Experience from Taitung to Pingtung
• Ruifang to Jiufen Route in New Taipei City: Climbing and Cultural Experience in a Mining Town
• The Wind at Bu Yan Ting: Solitude and Vastness on the Rolling Hills of Shuangxi