The northeast coast of Taiwan, east of Jiufen, is a landscape of cliffs, small harbours and strange coastal geology, and it is far quieter than the better-known Jiufen circuit. The Yinyang Sea, near the old gold-mining area, takes its name from the contrasting colours of the water, where mineral-rich runoff from the old mines stains the bay a golden yellow that meets the blue of the open sea. Nearby, the Nanya rock formations along the coast are sculpted by wind and waves into shapes that resemble mushrooms, candle holders and animals, and the layered sandstone makes a dramatic backdrop at sunrise or in late afternoon light. This small-group trip links the coast with a vegetarian-style feast and a hands-on sea-glass craft session, so it combines scenery with food and a souvenir you make yourself.
How it works
The tour is a day trip from Taipei by road, with a guide, transport and the activities named in the title included. You meet at a central pickup point named on your voucher, drive north-east along the coast and move between the stops over the day. The order can change with weather and tides, and viewing platforms or paths may be closed in high waves or strong wind. Confirm the pickup time, the meal arrangements and what is included when you book.
What to expect
The viewing areas are short walks from where the vehicle stops, with a mixture of boardwalks, steps and rock paths. The coast is exposed, so winds can be strong and the weather can change quickly, particularly in the cooler months, when drizzle and low cloud are common.
The Yinyang Sea colour is clearest in bright light, and the rock formations at Nanya are best seen when the tide is not too high. The meal is plant-based in style, which suits vegetarian travellers, and the sea-glass session is relaxed and suitable for all ages, with simple tools and materials provided.
Making the most of it
Bring a windproof layer, sunscreen and shoes with grip, because rock surfaces can be slippery after rain. A camera or phone with a good zoom is helpful for the cliffs, and a small bag keeps your hands free on the steps. Mention dietary needs when you book, even though the feast is meat-free, since some dishes use nuts or soy.
If you have already done Jiufen and Shifen, this tour is an excellent follow-up that shows a calmer side of the same coast, and photographers often prefer the early light. Keep the afternoon free if you plan to return to the city for dinner, as traffic on weekends can slow the road back.
Respect fencing and warning signs near the cliffs and the waves, and keep children close to you near the water. Take a few minutes at each viewpoint to look at the geology, because the colours of the rock layers and the shapes carved by the waves are the real attraction.
Sunglasses help with glare off the water, and a spare layer is useful if the wind picks up. Ask the guide to explain the mining history that gave the area its name, as it adds a lot of meaning to what you see along the shore.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day coast tour with a vegetarian-style feast and a sea-glass craft session.
Best time
Clear days, when the colours of the Yinyang Sea show best.
How long
A full day.
Tips
Bring a windproof layer and shoes with grip, and mention dietary needs when you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want quieter coastal scenery after the classic Jiufen route.
- Families
- The craft session suits children; keep them close near the water.
- Couples
- Dramatic light and a shared hands-on activity.
- Pair with
- A separate day for Jiufen and Shifen.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Why is it called the Yinyang Sea?+
Mineral-rich runoff from the old mines colours the water yellow where it meets the blue sea.
Is the lunch vegetarian?+
The feast is plant-based in style; tell the operator about other dietary needs.
What is the sea-glass activity?+
A simple craft session in which you make a keepsake from smoothed glass.
Can the coast close?+
Paths and viewpoints can close in high waves or strong wind.
What should I wear?+
Shoes with grip, a windproof layer and sun protection.
