No more photos allowed！3 major Taiwanese scenic spots closed in 2016 — what was once water is now cracked farmland

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

2016 was a year of explosive scenic beauty, with many emerging attractions and hidden gems going viral overnight through social media. However, some beautiful sites were shut down due to safety concerns or other reasons. ETtoday EBC has compiled a list of three well-known tourist spots across Taiwan that have been closed—travelers should take note.

▲ The abandoned shafts in Ruifang became an adventure hotspot earlier this year. (Photo provided by Self Tsai)

1. New Taipei City – Ruifang Abandoned Shafts
In early 2016, a wave of abandoned site exploration swept through Shueijinjiu in New Taipei. Among the most popular were three old mining shafts that once witnessed the mining era. These shafts, coiled like giant pythons on the mountainside, briefly became a hot attraction. However, due to years of disrepair and reports of serious air pollution caused by heavy metals—posing health risks to visitors—the entrances to the three shafts have been sealed off, and the public is urged not to visit.

▲ The picturesque “water center” view of Baxian Village can no longer be seen. (Photo provided by New Taipei City Agriculture Bureau)

2. New Taipei City – Baxian Village
Baxian Village was once a hidden gem in northern Taiwan, famed for its idyllic “water center” scenery. Unfortunately, excessive crowds began to trouble local residents, and after entrance fees were introduced, financial disputes arose among villagers. As a result, the path leading directly to the “water center” has been closed off, and casual sightseers are no longer allowed. Visitors can still enter the village through group registrations and guided tours.

▲ Notice of temporary closure of Baxian Village. (Photo by reporter Ji Xiangru)

The famous “water center” scenery was also drained in mid-November by the landowner, who dug channels to let the water out. The mirror-like lake view is now gone, leaving only parched earth—and the scenic wonder has become a thing of the past.

▲ Mugumuyu has been temporarily closed to the public. (Photo by reporter Chen Ruizhong)

3. Hualien – Mugumuyu
Mugumuyu in Hualien is hailed as one of the most beautiful hidden paradises in Taiwan. However, frequent falling rocks and landslides have endangered both travelers and local residents. To repair the roads, entry applications to Mugumuyu have been temporarily suspended since October 20, and a series of road safety improvements are underway, expected to be completed between April and June 2017.

During this closure period, access is limited to Mugumuyu residents and related personnel such as those from Taipower. Therefore, those wishing to enjoy the beauty of Mugumuyu will have to wait until at least summer 2017.