Like nature’s color palette—stunning coastal views where gold meets blue

By / Scenic Spots Home compiled report
 
New Taipei City’s Ruifang is not only home to the Golden Waterfall but also the “Yin-Yang Sea.” This unique spot features seawater that is half golden and half azure, creating a vivid contrast with the deep blue of the outer sea—an impressive view. From viewpoints near Shuǐkēng Cave and Jinguashi, the scenery offers different kinds of beauty from every angle.

The Yin-Yang Sea is conveniently located along the route between Keelung and Yilan. Driving along the coastal highway toward the Jǐnshuǐ Highway intersection, the wide road runs right toward the ocean. One side presents boundless seascapes, and together with the special beauty of the Yin-Yang Sea, it often compels travelers to stop and take in the view. Against the backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, the scene feels incredibly healing.

Ruifang’s “Shuǐjīnjiǔ” (referring to Shuǐkēng Cave, Jinguashi, and Jiufen) became bustling during the Japanese colonial period thanks to a thriving mining industry. The area is scattered with historic mining settlements and surrounding mining zones, forming a unique landscape of mining pits. As the mining industry gradually declined, it left behind nostalgic scenes full of cultural and historical charm, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. This small town boasts several distinctive scenic spots.

The “Yin-Yang Sea” at Shuǐkēng Cave is a natural phenomenon caused by minerals. Streams from the mountainous Jinguashi area flow into the sea. Due to the high content of pyrite in the Jinguashi geological formation, over time, insoluble ferric iron ion compounds formed and flowed into the seawater as suspended iron ions. As a result, the estuary has long displayed the unusual sight of a bay with alternating yellow and blue hues.