From the top of a hill at about 100 meters elevation, the view westward reaches the horizon over the Taiwan Strait and the view eastward looks down over the Houlong River estuary wetland and sandbar formations. After the completion of Provincial Highway 61 West Coast Expressway, this spot became a well-known midpoint on the west coast cycling and motorcycle touring route. The sight of the sun dropping into the sea at dusk is the main reason travelers make a special trip.
Highlights of Cape Good Hope Viewpoint
The viewpoint is located in the Dashan Li hill area of Houlong Township. The elevated ground stands out above the surrounding farmland, with almost no obstruction to the view. On clear days the Taiwan Strait stretches unbroken to the horizon; at low tide the estuary wetlands and sandbars of the Houlong River are exposed, with waterbirds gathering along the shallows to feed — a river mouth ecosystem distinct from a typical open coastline. The viewing platform has simple railings and a rest area; the facilities are straightforward.
After Provincial Highway 61 opened, the Houlong section became a regular stretch for cyclists traveling south from the north; Cape Good Hope, situated at a high point beside the road, naturally became a stopping point for scenery. At dusk, the orange-red sun drops into the sea, and in clear weather a sharp horizon sunset can be captured. It is one of the few spots on Miaoli's western coast that can take in both ocean scenery and river-mouth landscape at the same time.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- By car: Turn off near the Houlong interchange on Provincial Highway 61 and head toward Dashan Li. Roadside parking is available; use GPS navigation to locate the site before departing.
- There is no fixed closing time, but the hilltop has no nighttime lighting — descending after sunset is recommended.
- Public transport access is limited; the nearest train station is Houlong Station, from which a motorcycle or taxi transfer is needed.
Nearby Connections
- Can be combined with Tongsiao Shinto Shrine (about 15 minutes by car) — both are on the Houlong–Tongsiao western coast axis.
- Heading south extends the itinerary to the rural experience area of Miaoli Gongguan Township; heading north connects to the Zhunan Qiding Coastal Trail.
Source: Houlong Township local historical and cultural materials; Provincial Highway 61 tourism information. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.