The fort's name, Haimen Tianxian, translates to 'Heavenly Barrier at the Sea Gate', inscribed on the original stone archway.
During the Sino-French War, the fort was used to repel French naval attacks targeting the northern coast of Taiwan.
The masonry incorporates a mix of traditional Chinese architectural techniques and 19th-century Western military engineering.
The site was abandoned for decades, leading to the atmospheric integration of roots and vegetation into the stone walls.
It is one of the few remaining coastal fortifications in Taiwan that retains its original layout from the Qing defensive reinforcement period.
Ershawan Fort, also known as Haimen Tianxian, is a Qing Dynasty defensive fortification located on a hill overlooking Keelung Harbor. Built in the 1840s and reconstructed in 1884 by Governor Liu Mingchuan, it played a critical role during the Sino-French War. The site features original stone-walled battery emplacements, stone arches, and restored cannon mounts. Its strategic elevation once allowed defenders to control the entrance to Keelung's deep-water port. The structure is integrated into the surrounding forest, with many walls partially reclaimed by banyan trees. It is registered as a National Historic Site in Taiwan. Visitors can walk through the restored military corridors and tunnels constructed from local sandstone and mortar.
The 'Haimen Tianxian' stone archway with the view of the harbor framed in the background.
Wear footwear with strong grip as the stone paths can be slippery when damp.
Bring mosquito repellent, as the fort is nestled in a dense, humid hillside forest.
Carry a flashlight if you intend to explore the darker, narrow sections of the tunnel entrance.
Do not attempt to hike up from the harbor side during heavy rain, as the paths become hazardous.
Maintain silence as this is a historical site; do not climb on the unrestored stone walls to prevent damage.
