Houtong’s Cat-Themed Attractions: Adorable Feline Restroom & Guard Booth Make Debut

The New Taipei City Government stated that in the past, besides driving, the most convenient way to reach the Houtong Coal Mine Museum Park was by train. After exiting the station hall and descending the stairs, visitors could explore attractions such as the Vision Pavilion. But now, those arriving in Houtong will notice that the train station has gotten a fresh new look. The station sign has been infused with local elements, making it more than just a signboard—it’s now playful and artistic.

 

First, upon arriving at the station, visitors can walk up the stairs. The previously unused space outside the second-floor waiting hall has now been transformed into an observation deck, where tourists can gaze at the natural mountain town scenery and the remnants of the coal washing plant while enjoying a moment of leisure. Additionally, the newly installed cat-themed public restroom on the first floor is Taiwan’s first restroom incorporating local characteristics—cat motifs. With a series of cute cat illustrations drawn by illustrator Cat Little P plastered on the exterior walls, the playful and vibrant designs are 100% eye-catching.

Exiting the station and walking further, another eye-catching attraction in the park is the security guard booth. Originally made of aluminum panels with a rigid and cold appearance, the booth has been transformed into a warmer, wooden structure. This space breaks down the previous distance between buildings and small animals—not only allowing cats to freely enter, rest, and play, but also enabling security personnel and cats to stand guard together in the booth, turning it into a full-fledged cat guard booth that helps maintain the peace and tranquility of the entire park. This guard booth, with its rich retro and rustic atmosphere, already has a special charm, and with the addition of the “cat army,” it has become one of Houtong’s latest highlights.

 

In addition to the cat elements in the station restroom and guard booth, park staff and service personnel previously used bicycles to patrol the area. Now, these official patrol bikes have been given a feline twist, becoming “Cat BIKES” with cute and playful cat-like patterns on the body and front. It’s hard not to take a second look when staff ride these cat-patrol bicycles through the park. Be sure to wave or cheer them on as they pass by.

When visiting Houtong, besides the usual strolls through the cat village, expert-recommended cycling routes offer a deeper exploration of every corner of Houtong. Houtong was once home to Taiwan’s largest coal production industry, and its coal mining settlement and other cultural landscapes are well preserved. It also features unique river valley and natural landscapes such as potholes, making its diverse and rich cultural and natural scenery perfect for in-depth exploration via bicycle travel. For example, when visiting Houtong, you can either bring your own bicycle and take the train to Houtong Station or ride a bicycle from Ruifang Station. After exiting, cycle along the nearly 5-kilometer Ruipeng-Houtong Bicycle Path to Houtong, then embark on a cycling experience that blends natural scenery and relaxing exploration. This not only recharges your body and mind but also allows you to connect with nature while promoting energy conservation and environmental protection. To encourage cycling tours of Houtong and make things more convenient for cyclists, the New Taipei City Government has also set up a bicycle-friendly scenic restroom in the third parking lot of the park, offering greater convenience and peace of mind for cyclists.

 

As we approach 2014, to welcome the New Year and bless the Houtong mountain town and its cats, the New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau and Houtong Station have jointly launched a cat-themed wishing wall. Visitors are welcome to visit the second-floor waiting hall of Houtong Station, use the sticky notes provided by the Taiwan Railways Administration, write down their New Year wishes, blessings for Houtong, and hopes, and post them on the wishing wall. Through collective positive energy, may everyone’s wishes come true and the New Year bring a fresh start.