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Nestled between eastern Taiwan’s shores and the verdant Huadong Valley (花東縱谷) is a tiny pocket of virgin forest where wildlife roams freely. Shuilian Major Wildlife Habitat’s (水璉野生動物重要棲息環境) lush environment holds only one named mountain, Shuilianweishan (水連尾山), that measures 531 meters (1,742 ft).
Shuilian Major Wildlife Habitat lies below Hualien City (花蓮市) in the Shoufeng Township (壽豐鄉) of Hualien County (花蓮縣). A small protected area of 340 ha (840 ac), its steep terrain and rampant plant life minimize human disturbance. Taiwan date palm, a protected plant, thrives in abundance in this region and surrounding areas of eastern Taiwan.
While the highest point is only 531 meters (1,742 ft), the topography is precipitous, with sheer slopes jutting vertically into the Beikengtou River. Due to the high rainfall in the region and summertime typhoons causing havoc on the coastal land, landfalls are prone to happen near the cliffs.
With an annual average temperature of 73°F (23°C), the climate is humid subtropical, nurturing the vibrant plant life. Low-elevation plants like the mulberry, banyan, and camphor trees dominate the forests with Taiwan date palms.
As Shuilianweishan belongs to the Hai’an Range (海岸山脈), Taiwan’s smallest major sierra, the hills are predominantly low elevation. The manageable vertical rise makes the range an ideal hiking area for people of all fitness levels. Although Shuilianweishan itself has some very steep sections, the surrounding land is undulating and more friendly to hikers.
Areas of interest nearby are Taroko National Park (太魯閣國家公園) in the north and the Huadong Coastal Reserve (花東沿海保護區) running along Taiwan’s east coast. To the west is the Huadong Valley.
Out of Taiwan’s top five mountain ranges, the Hai’an Range, otherwise known as the Coastal Range, comprises the gentlest hills. Its tallest hill, Malaoloushan (麻荖漏山), peaks only at 1,684 meters (5,525 ft), compared to Taiwan’s highest mountain, Yushan (玉山), at 3,952 meters (12,966 ft)
The Hai’an Range’s Shuilianweishan comprises mainly a sedimentary conglomerate interspersed with shale. While the conglomerate is thick-layered in the northern part of the hill, it changes from coarse to fine, mixing with sandstone.
Dense broadleaf forests flourish in Shuilian Major Wildlife Habitat’s low-elevation region. Taiwan date palm grows abundantly, while other plant species like the parasol leaf tree, stone oak, and the empress tree thrive in humid woodlands.
The verdant greenery is a suitable environment for wildlife to inhabit. According to surveys, eight mammal species, 11 kinds of amphibians, 35 groups of birds, and four types of reptiles have been seen in the area. Some animals you may encounter in the woods are the Taiwan macaque, tiger frog, Taiwan blue magpie, and yellow-breasted flycatcher.
Shoufeng Township was a Japanese stronghold during the occupation of Taiwan from 1895 to 1945. Japanese officials established two immigration villages in Hualien County that were Amis’ homelands, with one in Shoufeng Township.
After banishing the Amis tribes, they decimated the land to construct homesteads for Japanese settlers arriving in Taiwan. Thus, the communities were designed as Japanese villages with traditional architecture, Shinto shrines, and torii gates. Once the occupation ended, the government immediately evacuated the immigrant villages.
Fentian Immigration Village retains its Japanese aesthetic throughout the homestead with its original torii gates, buildings, and temples.
We recommended these major hiking trails and areas in and around Shuilian Major Wildlife Habitat:
Traverse the steep hill that was once a trading route in older times. The Mizhan Ancient Road (米棧古道) was a 7 km (4 mi) path connecting Shoufeng and Shuilian (水璉) townships, but due to damaged roads and landslides, it's now only a 2 km (1 mi) trail.
You’ll begin the path at the foot of the hill, where the incline abruptly steepens through primitive woodlands of fragrant eucalyptus and banyan trees. A wooden boardwalk then leads you to the trail's highest point, with a few observation decks to survey the landscape. You’ll admire the Shoufeng River passage and expansive farming fields from the lower viewing platforms.
As you reach the trail’s end point, you can overlook Shulian Township against the roaring blue backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll view Shuilianweishan undulating towards the vertical sea cliffs.
If you find yourself near Shuilian Major Wildlife Habitat in the summertime, then make sure you visit the nearby Xin She Rice Terrace (新社梯田). A wash of golden grass stretches towards the aquamarine seascapes, with pockets of rice paddy that mirror the resplendent blue skies.
Explore the terraced fields that show glorious outlooks onto the Pacific Ocean, the rugged shoreline, and gently undulating coastal hills nearby. Close your eyes and listen to the roaring waves and the whistling breeze blowing off the ocean. Reawaken your senses as you inhale the saltiness of the sea air and taste freedom at its finest as you admire the beauty of eastern Taiwan’s scenic farmlands.
Witness the enchanting nature of Yunshanshui Dream Lake (雲山水夢幻湖), where turquoise waters glimmer under the sunshine and a tropical oasis of lush palm trees flank the lakeside. A magical heaven of earth, Yunshanshui Dream Lake inspires you with its stunning scenery.
The picturesque year-round pond delights visitors, especially in spring and autumn. Flowering plants bloom from March, painting the landscape in soft pastels for a heartwarming scene. However, the towering pine trees turn crimson in autumn, adding splashes of warm tones to the forest greens and blue water.
Explore the lush cypress and pine forest circling the lake for a captivating stroll in nature as you cross fallen logs in the gurgling streams. It’s hard to believe you’re in Taiwan, as the landscape of flourishing forests and rippling hills reminds you more of European natural landscapes.
For another dream-worthy escape, head to Hualien County’s largest body of water, Liyu Lake (鯉魚潭). Approximately 104 ha (257 ac) in size and teeming with carp, this freshwater lake has a 4 km (2.5 mi) circular path so visitors can admire the pristine pond from all angles.
A hotspot for canoeing, rowing, and other watersports, you can explore the glimmering aquamarine pool to fully appreciate the tranquil environment. Bordered by lush woodlands and backed by dramatic mountainscapes, it's a touching natural scene. In the summertime, paragliders take off from nearby Liyu Shan (鯉魚山) for one of the best bird eye views of Hualien County.
Situated a stone's throw from Liyu Lake is the verdant Chinan National Forest Recreation Area (池南國家森林遊樂區), once a thriving logging site during the Japanese Occupation Era. Unused heavy machinery, like cable cars, trains, and steam skidders, are still displayed in the old logging grounds, showing the dated equipment of those earlier times.
A flourishing region in any season, the forest is particularly charming in the springtime when blushing pink cherry blossoms erupt across the woodlands. Stroll through the lavish camphor groves, an ideal forest bathing experience that lifts your mood and clears your mind.
Look for the striking five-colored bird and migratory eagles in the higher elevations along the way. In the summer months, you’ll be delighted with the glowing orbs of fireflies and the charming presence of butterflies.
Spilling outside of the Shuillian Major Wildlife Habitat but situated nearby Shuilianweishan is the Yuemeishan Hiking Trail. Tread on the crunchy forest floor that inclines gently towards Yuemeishan’s (月眉山) 617 meters (2,024 ft) summit overlooking Shoufeng Township’s pristine landscape.
The region is known for its humidity. Sea mists roll off the ocean in the afternoons, soaking the woodlands in an enchanting vapor. Thus, you’ll notice the flourishing presence of epiphytes sprouting from the broadleaf trees, adding to the vibrant greenery of the forest.
From Yuemeishan’s summit, you can admire the rolling green coastal meadows and the rumbling Pacific Ocean. While on the opposite end, the majestic Huadong Valley dips into a fertile emerald basin of luscious foliage, rising to meet the dramatic passage of the Central Mountain Range (中央山脈).
From scenic cities to townships brimming with history and traditional villages, you have plenty of options for places to stay. Our top two picks are Hualien City and Ruisui Township (瑞穗鄉) for their selection of stunning natural attractions.
A must-visit in eastern Taiwan, Hualien City is most famous as a convenient base for Taroko National Park holidaymakers. However, the juxtaposition of a beautiful coastal setting against dramatic mountainscapes will make you want to stay longer.
A bucket-list item for locals and international tourists, Taroko National Park’s marbleized canyons feature a piercing-blue sapphire river meandering in between. From scaling 3,000-meter-high (9,843 ft) peaks to walking within inches of vertical drop cliffs and exploring the flourishing forests that lead to entrancing temples, you can spend days adventuring in the immaculate beauty that is Taroko National Park.
Once you’ve trekked as much of Taroko National Park as your heart desires, head to the seaside for a day of golden sunshine at Qixingtan Beach (七星潭海邊). Undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Taiwan, its jaw-dropping scenery is unrivaled. The soft gravel and grey-pebble beach stretches for miles as the waves crash onto the shore, retreating into a cerulean ocean. Take a blissful walk along the shoreline and inhale the crisp, salty sea air that renews your mind and body.
Another one of Hualien’s pristine beachfront hotspots is Nanbin Park (南濱段). The park is set against the stunning backdrop of Hualien Bay and is surrounded by verdant mountains. Take a leisurely stroll along the park's walking trails and marvel at the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
You'll also discover picturesque pavilions and charming gazebos that offer a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty. Walk the entire promenade to northern Beibin Park, and find the mighty statue of Guanyin, Goddess of the Sea, who guards the ocean.
Situated alongside the picturesque Huadong Valley is Ruisui Township, where life slows down to a hypnotic pace, perfect for those seeking the ultimate relaxation. The fertile environment of emerald meadows back between two sierras will inspire you to sink further into a state of bliss as you explore the thriving landscape.
Take a stroll through the vast 190-ha (470-ac) evergreen woodlands of Fuyuan Forest (富源國家森林遊樂區) and immerse yourself in lush greenery. Hike through Taiwan’s largest camphor grove and experience the refreshing benefits of forest bathing. Then soak in the hot springs and admire the thriving butterfly presence in the lush valley. Hike to the Fuyuan Waterfall and admire the majestic cascade rushing over the cliffside, spraying its foamy mist over the boulders and foliage below.
Next, head to Ruisui Hot Springs for a peaceful and relaxing soak. The tranquil surroundings, with the soothing sounds of chirping insects, tweeting birds, and gentle winds, offer a welcome break from the crashing waves. As you sink into the warm waters, you'll be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature, with ample shades of greenery all around. It's the perfect setting to let go of your worries and melt into a state of serene peacefulness.
Finally, visit Danongdafu Forest Park (大農大富平地森林園區), a sprawling expanse covering 1,250 ha (3,088 ac). Here, you can gaze at abundant flowers in full bloom during springtime. As the sun sets during summer, the mesmerizing sight of twinkling fireflies lighting up the night sky is truly magical. In autumn, the landscape is painted in shades of amber as the crimson maple trees come alive.
To reach Shuilian Major Wildlife Habitat, start your journey from Hualien City. To get there, take the local express trail (TRA) from any of Taiwan’s major cities to Hualien City. As public transport options are severely limited, hire a car, scooter, or taxi to Shuilian Major Wildlife Habitat. It's a 29 km (18 mi) journey from Hualien City to the reserve.
Explore Shuilian Major Wildlife Habitat with the PeakVisor 3D Map and identify its summits.
