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Taiwan Volcano Observatory & Tatun Volcano Group

These dormant andesitic stratovolcanoes near Taipei are still active beneath the surface. With CO2 emissions, microseismic events, and an 8–20 km deep magma chamber, the Tatun group is heavily monitored.

Chelungpu Fault & Chi-Chi Earthquake Memorials

The 1999 Chi-Chi earthquake ruptured over 100 km of the Chelungpu Fault. The 921 Earthquake Museum and Shih-Kang Dam show how devastating this event was, and the Chelungpu Fault Preservation Park reveals the fault in trench exposures.

Badlands, Mud Volcanoes & Landslides – Southwestern Fold & Thrust Belt

In Tianliao's “Moon World,” soft mudstone and intense rain make for unstable slopes and striking terrain. Mud volcanoes form when gas and pressurized water find paths to the surface—many align along the Chishan fault and Gutingkeng anticline.

Central Range & Metamorphosed Rocks – Wulu Gorge & Yakou

In the heart of Taiwan’s orogenic belt, we saw ancient schist and gneiss exposed due to tectonic uplift. At Yakou Pass, we observed faulted and foliated rocks—evidence of intense crustal deformation.

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Taipei 101 & Cultural Sites

Taipei 101 is an engineering feat with a tuned mass damper that helps it withstand earthquakes. We also explored Jiufen, the National Palace Museum, and lively night markets—where culture meets tectonics.

Yilan & Qingshui Geothermal Park

Thanks to heat flow and fractured rock, Yilan is rich in geothermal energy. At Qingshui Geothermal Park, we saw bubbling steam vents and even cooked eggs in natural geothermal steam!

Hualien, MiDAS Site, Jade & Minerals

Hualien mixes natural beauty and seismic energy. The MiDAS project uses fiber-optic cables to monitor the Milun Fault. At the Jade Shop and Mineral Museum, we explored how tectonics shape mineral deposits.

Chihshang Fault, Yuli & Rueisuei – Longitudinal Valley Fault Zone

We walked along one of Taiwan’s most active faults. At Chihshang Elementary School, fault creep is visible in offset structures. Hot springs in Rueisuei highlight geothermal activity along the fault. We were so "lucky" to experience an earthquake while we were here!