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Nanya Rock
Geology
Nanya Rock, a striking geological site in northeastern Taiwan, features unique sandstone and shale formations sculpted over millions of years by coastal erosion. Its signature striped patterns result from the oxidation of iron ore, creating distinct features like the famous “Ice Cream Rock.”
The rock’s striking, colorful striped patterns result from the oxidation of iron ore within its layers. This geology is further defined by differential erosion, where varying hardness and thickness in the strata cause the rock to erode at different rates, sculpting the unique formations of bumps and hollows.
Yehliu Geopark
Yehliu Geopark is situated on a 1,700-meter-long cape, formed where the Datun Mountain range meets the sea. Due to its shape, which resembles a giant turtle submerging into the water, it is sometimes referred to as the “Yehliu Turtle.” Nanya Rock, Taiwan, is part of Yehliu Geopark.
The area’s unique landscape is a result of millions of years of sea erosion, weathering, and earth movements acting upon the limestone-textured sandstone bedrock. This process has sculpted distinct features, including sea trenches, candle-shaped, and pot-shaped rocks.
How the Structure Formed
Coastal rock formations, Taiwan photography Spots
Hiking trail near Nanya Rock and Bitou Cape
The Bitoujiao Hiking Trail is the premier hiking option on Taiwan’s northeast coast, offering approximately 3.5 km of panoramic ocean views, including scenic overlooks of Nanya Rock. Suitable for most fitness levels, this trail features paved paths and wooden walkways leading from Bitou Elementary School to the Bitoujiao Lighthouse, with a popular loop ascending the ridge for spectacular coastal scenery. The trail provides 360-degree scenic views, including the Pacific Ocean, vast mountain ranges, and coastal erosion formations.
How to get to Nanya Rock for Sunset Photos
To get to Nanya Rock for sunset photos, you can take a train to Ruifang Station, and then a tourist shuttle bus to the Nanya stop, or drive directly to the area. The rock formations are located just off the coastal highway, and there is a parking lot across the street for visitors.
