Houtong was once the largest coal mine in Taiwan, earning the name 'Monkey Cave' due to a legend involving wild macaques in the local mountains.
The mine utilized a complex system of aerial cable cars and narrow-gauge tracks to transport coal across the Keelung River.
Mining operations at this site officially ceased in 1990, marking the end of a 70-year industrial era.
The park is technically part of a dual-attraction area often collectively called 'Houtong Cat Village', though the coal park focuses strictly on industrial history.
Coal dust remains embedded in the stone walls of several structures, providing an authentic texture to the historical ruins.
Houtong Coal Mine Ecological Park preserves the industrial heritage of Taiwan's largest coal-producing site, active from the 1920s until 1990. The site features a restored coal mine entrance, an overhead tramway, and a dedicated coal display hall explaining extraction techniques. Visitors can traverse the original mine tunnel to view simulated mining displays and preserved equipment. The park integrates historic architecture with the adjacent cat-themed village, which emerged as a localized tourist phenomenon. It serves as an open-air museum detailing the socioeconomic impact of coal mining on the Ruifang District. The surrounding landscape retains remnants of the facility’s sorting plant and worker dormitories.
The restored iron bridge that spans the Keelung River, offering a view of the former sorting plant ruins.
Bring a portable fan or cooling towel, as the tunnel can be humid.
Wear closed-toe shoes to navigate the slightly uneven industrial pathways and tunnel floor.
Visit the visitor center first to obtain a map of the remaining industrial site ruins located beyond the main exhibition hall.
Feeding the local cats human food, which is discouraged by animal welfare volunteers; avoid venturing into marked off-limit industrial ruins.
The park is typically closed on the first Monday of every month for maintenance.
Do not climb on rusted machinery or climb over safety barriers; keep noise levels low inside the mine tunnels.
