Houtong is a small mountain village on the Pingxi railway line that once supplied much of northern Taiwan with coal. After the mines closed and the population dwindled, local volunteers began caring for the stray cats that lived around the station, and the village turned itself into a cat sanctuary, with cat-themed cafés, souvenir shops, murals and statues. Today it is one of the most-photographed railway stops in the north, and the platform, footbridge and old mining buildings give the place a distinctive atmosphere. Nearby, the Sandiaoling area is known for a hiking route that passes three waterfalls and the old railway tunnels, a pleasant combination of industrial heritage and green forest. This day tour links Houtong with nearby stops on the same stretch of line, making it a good option for travellers who like trains, small towns and easy walks.
How it works
The tour is a full-day trip from Taipei, with transport arranged for the group and a guide leading the visits. You meet at a central pickup point named on your voucher, travel east into the hills of New Taipei and spend the day moving between the stops. The exact order and the length of each stop can vary with weather and trail conditions, so keep the schedule flexible. Check the pickup time and the meeting point when you book, and confirm what is included for entry and meals.
What to expect
Houtong is relaxed, with cats lounging on benches, rooftops and the station platform. Visitors are asked to treat the animals gently, avoid feeding them and keep dogs away. The walk along the Sandiaoling trail involves some uneven steps, a short stretch beside the old railway line and damp forest, so wear shoes with good grip and carry a rain jacket, as the hills east of Taipei are often misty.
The waterfall trail may be closed after heavy rain, and the guide will substitute other stops in that case. In warm months, bring insect repellent and water.
Making the most of it
Aim for a weekday if you can, since weekends bring crowds to the platform and the cafés. Travel light, because there is a fair amount of walking, and keep a small amount of cash for snacks and souvenirs. The tour fits well alongside a visit to Jiufen and Shifen, which lie on the same side of the region, though it is better to choose one or the other for a single day so that you are not rushed.
Photographers will enjoy the light on the old tracks in the late afternoon. If you prefer independent travel, trains run on the line from Ruifang, but a guided trip removes the need to coordinate timetables and trailheads.
Families with older children usually enjoy it, while those with limited mobility should ask the operator about the walking involved. Pack a light snack and a refillable bottle, since facilities along the trail are limited, and keep a small bag of tissues or wipes for the walk.
Check the forecast the night before, because mist and rain change what you see, and tell the operator if anyone in your group has a mobility concern, so the route can be adjusted. Volunteers in the village rely on donations, so a small purchase from a local shop helps the cats.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day trip by road to Houtong, the Sandiaoling trail and nearby railway stops.
Best time
Weekdays, in dry weather.
How long
A full day, with pickup times set by the operator.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip, carry a rain jacket and treat the cats gently.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Cat lovers, railway fans and easy-going hikers.
- Families
- Older children enjoy the cats and tunnels; check the walking distances.
- Couples
- A scenic, low-key day out of the city.
- Pair with
- A separate day for Jiufen and Shifen.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Can I feed the cats at Houtong?+
Visitors are asked not to feed them; local volunteers look after the animals.
How hard is the Sandiaoling trail?+
It is a moderate walk with some uneven steps and damp ground.
Is it affected by weather?+
Trails can close after heavy rain, and the guide may change the route.
Where does the tour leave from?+
From a central Taipei pickup point shown on your voucher.
Is it good for children?+
Yes for older children who can walk on trails; ask about distances.
