The Golden Waterfall is named for the extraordinary reddish-brown hues of the cascades, as the stream of flowing water picks up sediments and minerals on its way down the dramatic rock face. The setting provides extraordinary photo opportunities and is popular with Taiwanese newlyweds. Visit the falls with a guide for a sense of the site’s regional and cultural history.
Chat with your docent to learn about the traditional Taiwanese practice of taking wedding photos here. Bring food and drink for a picnic in this serene setting, with the rushing water creating a wonderful backdrop.
Snap photos of the streams of water tumbling down the cragged rocks. Don’t be fooled by the waterfall’s name. You won’t find gold in these cascades, despite the region’s mining history and the proximity to the Gold Museum. The title refers to the golden color of the shimmering water, which is attributed to sediments picked up by the river. Admire the red shades of the rocks and soil.
Along the river, you’ll find an abandoned mine. Notice how the various mining tunnels appear to run down the hill like a snake. From this vantage point there are spectacular views of the Yin Yang Sea in the distance.
Note that the cascades are particularly gorgeous at sunrise, while the site begins to get crowded in the afternoon. Look at the waterfall, but don’t touch the water here as it is thought to be toxic.
The Golden Waterfall stands between Jinguashi Geopark and Taiwan’s northern coast, in the eastern outskirts of Keelung City. Ride a bus from the Ruifang Train Station or Jiufen Old Street to the stop just beside the falls and travel around the area on foot. While you’re in the region, consider visiting other nearby landmarks, including the Gold Museum, the Chiufen Shengping Theater and the Jinguashi Shrine.
