Hey hiking friends,
Do you know where the easternmost point in Taiwan is?
In fact, it's close to Taipei. Magang Village is the easternmost point of Taiwan and can be reached by bus for around 2 hours. You can visit the picturesque Sandiaojiao Lighthouse and extend your visit to Mao'ao Fishing Harbor to explore the old stone houses.
(Many people go fishing in Magang and Mao'ao.)
Those places are great for wandering or just relaxing by the shore. Magang intertidal zone is a fun place to explore.
Sandiaojiao Lighthouse, aka San Diego
This lighthouse is located on the north tip of Xueshan Mountain Range (Snow Mountain Range) and was built in 1935. Now, it's become a tourist attraction open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday.
(Sandiaojiao Lighthouse)
I didn't get inside to visit, but it looks great from the trail.
(Looking at Sandiaojiao Lighthouse from the trail)
Magang Village
Magang is in Gongliao District, New Taipei City. You can take Gold Fulong Shuttle Bus 856 to get there.
(You can see Sandiaojiao Lighthouse from Magang Village.)
It used to be a fishing village, and we still can see the agricultural farms at the shore.
(Old abalone ponds)
What I like about this place is the intertidal zone. When the tide is low, you can see fish, algae, crabs, and other sea creatures foraging. I got a small fish resting its head on my gigantic foot.
The ocean also performs her talents and crafts arts on the rocks. I sat on a rock, watching the waves come and go when I went there in early May. I even got a slight sunburn.
(Nature is the best artist.)
A few years ago, a group of developers was trying to purchase the land and turn this place into a big hotel. Luckily, the project failed. I wonder why we need another big hotel in this beautiful place. If you ask me, we have way too many hotels, especially after the pandemic.
(The waves are so mesmerizing.)
Mao'ao Village
If you want to explore more fishing villages, I recommend you walk along Provincial Highway 2 to Mao'ao Village along the bike path.
(You can ride a bike in the village.)
When you arrive at Mao'ao, you will see a big Liyang Temple. You'll find toilets next to the temple.
Follow Fulian Street, and you will see the famous Mao'ao Stone House, Mao'ao Wu House, and other stone walls.
The local government put up fences to protect Mao'ao Wu House.
If you want to take a bus back to Taipei or Ruifang Train Station, the last one leaves around 4:25 pm at Magang. You will find a bus stop near Liyang Temple.
(Wu House before the fence)
You'll also find many small coffee shops or delis in both villages.
(Villagers dry the seaweeds under the sun.)
Do you have a favorite seashore village in Taiwan or your country? Feel free to share with me if you like :) Talk to you later.
Anusha