Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Team
The originally scheduled 2014 New Taipei City Gongliao International Marine Music Festival was set to rock from July 9 (Wed) to July 13 (Sun), but due to Typhoon Raccoon, it has been postponed by one day, starting on July 10 (Thu). The original performances scheduled for July 9 (Wed) have been moved to July 14 (Mon), while all programs from July 10 (Thu) to July 13 (Sun) will proceed as planned.
The New Taipei City Gongliao International Marine Music Festival has always been a major summer event in Northern Taiwan. (Photo provided by New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau)
This five-day marathon music extravaganza not only allows music fans to fully immerse themselves in the passionate vitality of original music, but also offers the chance to explore the beautiful Northeast Coast. With the salty sea breeze and the blue sky and white clouds along the coastline, the stunning coastal scenery is the perfect summer holiday destination. The New Taipei City Government has specially planned an in-depth Fulong trip for music lovers attending the 2014 Gongliao International Marine Music Festival, allowing them to deeply experience the charming allure of the Northeast Coast beyond the festival itself.
Just a turn off the coastal highway leads to the bird-watching paradise “Tianliaoyang.” (Photo provided by New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau)
Tianliaoyang Wetland, Old Caoling Tunnel, and Magang Ma’ao
For those who enjoy immersing themselves in natural ecology, the first stop, the bird-watching paradise “Tianliaoyang,” is the largest plain in the Northeast Coast. It serves not only as a resting spot for migratory birds but also boasts an incredibly rich birdlife. The sight of birds along the way will keep you pleasantly surprised. The “Old Caoling Tunnel” (2,167 meters long) is also a must-visit recommended by many tourists. This “cycling tunnel” that combines history, culture, and tourism offers the chance to experience the railway scenery along the way by bike, connecting with the coastal cycling path for a truly relaxing and worthwhile “wind-chasing adventure.” After passing through the Old Caoling Tunnel and arriving at Shicheng Scenic Area, you can gaze at the beautiful view of Guishan Island. Further along to the easternmost tip of Taiwan, the Sandiao Cape Lighthouse offers waves to watch, and you can explore the scenic fishing village of Ma’ao, known for its stone houses and fresh seafood. This journey through the Northeast Coast will leave a lasting impression on these beautiful spots.
The Old Caoling Tunnel connects Fulong and Shicheng, and is a favorite tunnel for cycling enthusiasts. (Photo provided by New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau)
The calm waters of Shuangxi River are perfect for canoeing. (Photo provided by New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau)
Canoeing on Shuangxi River, Lingjiu Mountain, and Fulong Beach
Experiencing an exciting canoeing trip is also a great choice. Located at the Longmen Camping Area Riverside Park, it is the country’s first large-scale canoe base, adjacent to the Shuangxi River and Fulong Sea Area. Surrounded by blue skies and green landscapes, it feels like being in a tranquil world embraced by nature’s warmth and leisurely atmosphere, offering a pure and profound experience of paddling into the wilderness. You can also enjoy the views of both sides of the Shuangxi River, coastal plants, and the unique sand spit at the river mouth from the iconic red Longmen Suspension Bridge. After canoeing, head to Lingjiu Mountain to take in the panoramic view of the entire Gongliao area, including the 3-kilometer-long golden Fulong Beach, the bridge, and the nuclear power plant. After relaxing your body and mind, return to Fulong Beach to watch the beautiful sunset and enjoy the rock music—it will be an unforgettable experience.
The golden-hued Fulong Beach under the sea sky. (Photo provided by New Taipei City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau)