Miaoli Tongxiao–Yuanli Coastal Ride: Sunset Highway Along the Taiwan Strait

Introduction

On the western shore of the Taiwan Strait, between Tongxiao and Yuanli in Miaoli County, lies a “Sunset Highway” long cherished by cyclists. Riding along the coastal section of Provincial Highway 1, the vast Taiwan Strait stretches to your left, while towering white wind turbines line up to your right. The sea breeze carries a salty tang as it meets your face. During the golden hours of 4–6 PM, the setting sun dyes the entire ocean in shades of gold and orange—a sight that leaves every rider who passes through here with an unforgettable memory.

Route Overview

The Tongxiao–Yuanli coastal ride mainly follows Provincial Highway 1 and coastal farm roads, covering approximately 20–25 kilometers in total:

Section	Distance	Highlights	Difficulty
Tongxiao downtown → Tongxiao Beach	Approx. 5 km	Beach, windbreak forest	★☆☆
Beach → Wind power area	Approx. 8 km	Miaoli offshore wind turbines	★☆☆
Wind power area → Yuanli downtown	Approx. 10 km	Yuanli Old Street, rush weaving workshops	★☆☆

The entire route is nearly flat, with a maximum elevation gain of no more than 50 meters, making it ideal for a relaxed ride.

Route Highlights

What makes this road most captivating is its unique blend of industrial aesthetics and traditional culture:

• Miaoli Offshore Wind Turbines: Dozens of large offshore wind turbines stand off the coast of Tongxiao. Riding along the shore, you can clearly see this “white forest” on the sea—a dreamlike sight on misty mornings and a modern landscape unique to the Taiwan Strait.
• Tongxiao Beach: A little-known seaside gem with fine sand. On weekends, local families can be seen picnicking and playing in the water here, making it a great mid-route rest stop.
• Yuanli Rush Weaving Culture Hall: Yuanli is the hometown of Taiwan’s rush hat and mat weaving, renowned for its rush craftsmanship since the Japanese colonial era. The culture hall documents this craft history in detail, with free or low-cost admission well worth a visit.
• Yuanli Old Street: This well-preserved old street features Qing Dynasty architecture, lined with farm produce stalls and traditional snack shops—a microcosm of Taiwan’s coastal culture.

Sunset Riding Strategy

To enjoy the most perfect sunset riding experience, timing is crucial:

• Departure time: It is recommended to depart from Tongxiao between 2–3 PM, so you arrive at the wind turbine section around 5–6 PM (adjusting by season) just in time for sunset.
• West-facing section: The stretch from the wind power area to the Yuanli entrance faces directly west—the best section for watching the sunset. Consider slowing down or stopping briefly to take photos here.
• Seasonal choice: In autumn and winter (October–February), sunset comes earlier (around 5 PM), and the strait occasionally enjoys clear air, making sunset colors more vivid. In summer, sunset comes later, but afternoon fog can sometimes reduce visibility.

Nearby Extension Routes

If you wish to extend your trip, the following routes can be combined with the Tongxiao–Yuanli section:

• Southbound Yuanli → Dajia: Continuing south about 15 kilometers brings you to Dajia in Taichung. Dajia Jenn Lann Temple is Taiwan’s most important Mazu worship center and well worth a visit.
• Northbound Tongxiao → Miaoli City: Heading north takes you into Miaoli’s hilly terrain, connecting historical sites such as the Tongxiao Shrine (a Japanese colonial-era shrine ruin).

Supply Stops

• Around Tongxiao Station: Convenience stores and breakfast shops—the departure supply point
• Beside Tongxiao Beach: Beverage vending machines and snack stalls
• Yuanli downtown: Convenience stores, traditional snacks, and food stalls near the Rush Weaving Culture Hall
• Dajia (extension section): Convenience stores and the famous Dajia cream puff pastry

Practical Tips

The coastal highway experiences strong winds, especially during the northeast monsoon season in autumn and winter. While riding with a tailwind is easy, be aware that strong crosswinds may affect your steering direction. It is recommended to wear windproof glasses to keep sand and grit out of your eyes.

Conclusion

The Tongxiao–Yuanli coastal ride is the most romantic cycling experience on Taiwan’s west coast. White wind turbines, golden sunsets, the scent of rush weaving, and memories of the old street together weave a warm coastal tapestry. Set out one afternoon, let the winds of the Taiwan Strait see you off, and let the sunset draw the most perfect ending to your journey.

Related Reading

• Taiwan West Coast Cycling Trip: A Slow Coastal Ride from Hsinchu to Tainan
• Miaoli Zhunan to Houlong Coastal Route: A Flat Riding Guide for Miaoli’s West Coast
• Pingtung Dapeng Bay Loop Route: A Flat Bay Ride at Taiwan’s Southern Tip
• Taiwan West Coast Flat Riding: Rural Scenery in Changhua, Yunlin, and Chiayi