Taiwan Lost Places

Many people mistakenly believe that the most important mining activities were concentrated around Jinguashi. In fact, the gold-mining boom began in an area that is little known today—the Small Pumpkin Head. Decades of mining have dramatically altered the landscape, in some places causing entire peaks to collapse. Although largely unknown today, the area can be visited safely.
https://lostplaces.tw/history-of-shuinandong/
https://lostplaces.tw/the-queen-reclaims-what-is-hers/

It is often said that only two support towers remain of the old transport cableway operated by Asia Cement from Yushan to Jhudong, because the rest were demolished. However, at the rear end of the factory near Jhudong, there are still two well-preserved support towers. Mining is still taking place here. Remains of the old installation can still be seen. The bunker is completely overgrown and can only be located by its entrance.
https://lostplaces.tw/the-transport-system/

Before and after

Few people know that remnants of the old cableway from Yushan to Zhudong can still be found. You can see some of the remaining cableway towers from a distance inside the cement factory, but it is impossible to enter the site. Next to them are bunker-like structures that, to me, make no sense.
https://lostplaces.tw/explanation-about-the-area/

The Jialuopai coalfield near Neiwan has, with a few exceptions, largely fallen into oblivion. I think this is where a new project begins: searching for the remains of a mine that still exist deep in the mountains.

Today, I only explored the first trail. There must have been large villages further down the mountain. Here are some pictures:

I then spoke with an elderly Atayal woman who was still able to explain quite a few things to me. I will probably have to ask a hunter to act as my guide. The trail is very steep and crossed by numerous animal tracks.

Photos of Xiaocukeng. There is almost no information available about this place. It is deteriorating rapidly. Two mine entrances are particularly interesting. Since remnants of the rails are still visible, the mine must have been more than insignificant.
https://lostplaces.tw/a-little-shaft/

A terrible thing for animals and a risk for explorers.

I finally managed to finish my article about Dacukeng. I really enjoyed writing it because this place brings together local history, the fascinating film A Borrowed Life, and the area's mining heritage. Here are a few photos and a link to the full article. I hope you find it interesting!
https://lostplaces.tw/a-borrowed-life/

Should I go in those shafts or not?