Hau Lung Cape of Good Hope Travel Review | A Healing Destination Where Wind, Sea, and Grassland Intertwine
#NovemberDestinations2025
If I had to choose a place that makes you want to take a deep breath, I would say without hesitation: the Cape of Good Hope in Houlong, Miaoli. It's a place with a romantic name and romantic scenery. Taking advantage of the clear weather, I decided to take a short trip to Houlong, surrendering myself to the sea breeze, the grasslands, and the horizon, letting my soul take a short break while watching the natural scenery.
⸻
I. First Impressions of the Cape of Good Hope: The Scent of the Wind, the Color of the Sea, and a Feeling of Complete Relaxation
The moment I arrived at the Cape of Good Hope, I was completely stunned by its scenery. Before me stretched an endless coastline, beside me vast grasslands, and in the distance, rows of enormous, slowly rotating white windmills. The grandeur of the view was so breathtaking, it looked like a postcard, without any post-production editing or retouching.
The sea here was a deeper blue than I had imagined, its surface sparkling in the sunlight like it was covered in diamonds. And the wind was the main attraction here. I had long heard that the Cape of Good Hope was the "Kingdom of the Wind," and seeing it in person, I knew it truly lived up to its name. The wind blew in from the sea, strong yet comforting, carrying the salty scent of the sea and a touch of coolness. It felt as if it were blowing away all the worries in my heart.
Standing on the viewing platform, you truly felt that overwhelming sense of awe, like wanting to exclaim, "Wow!"
⸻
II. Strolling along the trails: the more you walk, the more open and healing it becomes.
The trails at the Cape of Good Hope aren't difficult. They stretch out along the grasslands, with rolling hills on one side and the coastline and windmills on the other. Walking along the trails, the view is completely unobstructed, always offering a breathtakingly expansive vista.
I think the most captivating part here is the windmills. Those huge, white blades slowly turning have a strangely healing quality, especially when the wind is strong and they turn faster, like they're recharging the earth. Many people say that seeing the windmills at the Cape of Good Hope feels like being "surrounded by a science fiction movie," and I completely agree.
And the green of the grasslands, under the sunlight, looks like a soft carpet, incredibly soothing to behold from afar. When taking photos, any spot on the grassland, the coast, or the windmills will yield beautiful results.
I especially love the sense of freedom the trails offer—no pressure, no rush, just stroll slowly, observe, listen to the wind, and watch the sea; it all feels so relaxing.
⸻
III. Best Spots for Sea View: Gazing at the sea is an integral part of any trip.
At certain platforms, you can see the most spectacular curve of the coastline. That's where I like to linger the longest. I sit by the railing, letting the wind blow, doing absolutely nothing. Just watching the distant horizon, the waves lapping against the shore, and the clouds drifting slowly across the sky.
If you're feeling stressed and emotionally burdened, you must come here to see the sea.
The sound of the waves is a naturally healing sound; listening to it gradually relaxes your entire body. Combined with the constant sea breeze, it creates a feeling of "reconnecting with the world."
Sometimes, when the sun is obscured by clouds, the sea turns a deep blue; when the sun shines through, it becomes a bright silver. The light is constantly changing, making the scenery like a painting that never stops.
⸻
IV. Photo Highlights: Every Shot Looks Great
Houlong Cape of Good Hope is incredibly photogenic, a true Instagram hotspot:
1. Windmill Background Photos
Standing in front of the grassland, placing the windmills in the background creates a beautiful proportion, and the sheer size of the windmills adds a sense of grandeur to the photo.
2. Back View Photos Facing the Sea
Sitting on the viewing platform or along the trail, taking a photo of your back to the sea gives a super traveler's feel.
3. Grassland Japanese Style
Wearing bright or white clothing and walking on the grassland, with the sunlight shining down, creates a Japanese-style photo shoot.
4. Sky and Cloud Composition
On a clear day, the sky is incredibly blue, and the clouds are exceptionally three-dimensional. Making the sky the main subject allows you to take stunning photos.
5. Trail Perspective Composition
Capturing shots that show the trail extending outwards creates a narrative, like embarking on a new journey.
No need for elaborate posing; just walk or stand naturally and capture the scenery for a beautiful travel photo.
⸻
V. Transportation and Tips: It's really windy, be careful with your hat (laughs)
While the Cape of Good Hope scenery is breathtaking, some tips can make your trip smoother:
• The wind is incredibly strong, hats can easily fly off!
It's recommended to wear a hat with ties, or simply not wear one.
• Strong UV radiation, remember to use sunscreen.
• The trail doesn't offer much shade, so it can get hot in summer.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as a section of the trail is gravel.
• The sea breeze can be stronger in bad weather, so hold your phone firmly when taking photos.
By paying attention to these small details, your trip will be more enjoyable.
⸻
VI. Recommended Side Trips: Experience Coastline + Historical Sites + Town in One Trip
There are many side trips near the Cape of Good Hope in Houlong, which can be arranged for a half-day or full-day itinerary:
• Waipu Fishing Port: Take photos of the coastline and enjoy fresh seafood.
• Baishatun Gongtian Temple: Experience the local Mazu culture.
• Houlong Township Snacks: Delicious fried mantou (steamed buns) and Hakka cuisine.
• Cape of Good Hope Beach: Flat and easy to walk on, perfect for strolling and enjoying the sea view.
Don't overpack your itinerary; slow and leisurely is the charm of this place.
⸻
VII. Conclusion: A Place You'll Want to Return To
The Cape of Good Hope isn't a "very crowded" tourist spot; its charm comes from nature itself—the wind, the sea, the sky, the grasslands, the windmills—all combined to immerse you in a sense of vastness. For me, the most worthwhile part of this trip was that moment when my heart suddenly felt light.
Standing on the sea-breezy boardwalk, watching the windmills turn and gazing at the horizon where the sea meets the sky, I suddenly felt that all of life's little worries had become insignificant.
Houlong Cape of Good Hope is just such a place that allows you to reset your mood.
If you're looking for a place where you can feel the breeze, see the sea, and relax, then the Cape of Good Hope is definitely worth a visit.
#Miaoli #HoulongCapeofGoodHopeScenicArea #Family #PhotogenicScenery #CouplesTravelItinerary #WalkingSpot #MoodRechargeStation