Yehliu Geopark 野柳地質公園
One of the premier destinations in northern Taiwan, Yehliu Geopark is home to a number of unique geological formations including the iconic "Queen's Head" (女王頭), and is located along a cape stretching out from the town of Wanli.
Part of the Daliao Miaocene Formation, the cape stretches around 1,700 meters, formed as thousands of years of geological movement forced the Datun Mountains to change their shape, jutting out into the ocean.
Besides the Queen's Head, other remarkable formations include Sea Candles (燭台石), Fairy Shoe (仙女鞋), Ginger Rocks, Elephant Rock, Ice Cream Rock, Kissing Rock, and Princess' Head.
Park Tickets can be found here.
Next to the geopark is the Yehliu Ocean World (野柳海洋世界), which is an oceanarium with ocean exhibits, and sea life including dolphin and sea lion performances. Tickets for the oceanarium can be reservation online, and is a fun addition to the more educational experience at the geopark.
Located along the north coast, Yehliu Park is a bit remote, but well worth the effort to visit.
By Long Distance Bus:
From Taipei West Bus Station - Terminal A (located at Taipei Main Station), go to the KuoKuang (國光) window and purchase a ticket for NT$96 to Yehliu Geopark (野柳地質公園). The journey takes around 90 minutes, and the bus will drop you on the main road just outside the park entrance. Walk down the lane on the left side to enter.
By Shuttle Bus:
Ride comfortably in a shuttle bus from Ximen to Yehliu, followed by the Ying Yang Sea, 13-Layer Remains, Golden Waterfall, Jiufen (九份), and Shifen Old Streets (十分老街), leaving at 9AM and returning at 17:45.
By North Coast Shuttle Bus (from Tamsui (淡水, Danshui) or Keelung):
Take the North Coast Shuttle Bus NT$200 all day unlimited rides from either MRT Tamsui Station or Keelung Railway Station.
Located nearby, Yehliu Ocean World offers visitors the chance to observe marine life in an undersea glass tunnel, as well as fun dolphin and sea lion performances, making this a popular family destination.
After your visit to Yehliu, before heading back to Taipei City, you may want to visit nearby Keelung and its renowned Miaokou Night Market (廟口夜市) for nice fresh seafood dinner and some shopping!
Many tourists like to include Yehliu, Ruifang, Jiufen, and Keelung as part of a one day trip to the northeast coast. A nice itinerary is to first travel from Taipei to Yehliu, Ruifang, Jiufen and Jinguashi , then spend the evening in Keelung visiting Miaokou Night Market before taking the train back to Taipei City.