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The Suhua Coastal Reserve (蘇花海岸保護區) is a narrow stretch of steep rocky shores and coastal plains in eastern Taiwan that holds 8 named peaks. Feitianpanshan (飛田盤山) is the highest and most prominent hill measuring 1,402 meters (4,600 ft).
The thin strip of jagged coastal landscape belonging to Suhua Coastal Reserve begins in Nan’ao Township’s (南澳鄉) Dong’ao Bay in Yilan County (宜蘭縣) and runs south towards the Chongde Tunnel in Xiulin Township (秀林鄉) of Hualien County (花蓮縣). It encompasses three smaller protection zones in its area: the Wushibi Coast (烏石鼻海岸自然保留區), Guanyin Coast (觀音海岸野生動物重要棲息環境), and Qingshui Cliff (清水斷崖).
Mountainous terrain and the sea surround the Suhua Coastal Reserve, which covers 7,447 ha (18,402 ac). You’ll find many sea caves and terraces along the cliffs from years of erosion from the fierce ocean. These are most significant along Wushibi and Guayin coasts.
As Suhua Coastal Reserve’s peaks belong to the Central Mountain Range’s (中央山脈) tapered north, the hills are steep but not giant in height like Yushan (玉山) or Xiuguluanshan (秀姑巒山) found in Taiwan’s centre. Thus, the Central Mountain Range’s hills begin to decrease in prominence as it extends north and south. Suhua Coastal Reserve’s hills are mostly gently undulating, but those near the ocean have vertical drops. The other seven hills in the Suhua Coastal Reserve are:
South of the Suhua Coastal Reserve is Taroko National Park (太魯閣國家公園), with some giant peaks like Nanhudashan (南湖大山) and Hehuanshan (合欢山) measuring over 3,000 meters (9,842 ft). As these peaks are situated further inland, their height swells as they edge closer to Taiwan’s rugged centre.
Other notable places of interest near Suhua Coastal Reserve are Taipingshan National Forest (太平山國家森林遊樂區) and Nan’ao Broadleaf Forest (南澳闊葉樹林自然保留區) in the west. Su’ao Cold Springs (蘇澳冷泉) is in the north, and Guishan Island (龜山島) is northeast in the Pacific Ocean.
Suhua Coastal Reserve has a sea-eroded topography and small coastal hills with sharp cliffs. Sea caves are mainly found on the Guanyin Coast, some measuring two meters (6.5 ft) high and ten meters (33 ft) wide. Wushibi Cape forms a peninsula in the sea and is mainly composed of gneiss, while Qingshui Cliff is formed of marble.
Feitianpanshan and the other hills comprise siliceous, green, and black schist from the Palaeozoic through the Mesozoic.
The sea-facing ecology comprises a subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest. You’ll find Formosan alder, Chinese cedar, stone oak, and the Juixiong tree dominating the plant life in the environment. Due to the steep nature of the terrain, there is little human disturbance, so the ecology is thriving, untouched, and undisturbed.
Nan’ao Township has a long history of human existence, with archaeologists dating the first human settlement around 6,000 years BCE. The old burial site of Huben ruins bears tombstones and houses from 1,800 years ago. Further south in Xuilin Township’s Taroko National Park, further evidence of prehistoric human activity lies at several sites of stone tools, iron cookware and pottery.
While the Atayal tribe mostly populate Nan’ao Township, there is a Japanese-speaking hamlet of Aohua Village (澳花村). Residents were forced to learn and speak only Japanese during the years of occupation, and after the Japanese retreated, their language stayed.
Meanwhile, in Xiulin Township, the Truku people dominate the region and journeyed eastwards from Nantou County to settle here. Known for their exceptional skills, they create weaving products of the finest quality and are highly regarded farmers.
Make the most of your time at the Suhua Coastal Reserve and visit these major hiking trails and areas:
Accessible only at low tide, the Nan’ao Mysterious Beach Trail is a 7 km (4 mi) stretch of grey pebbles and gravel shoreline. You have the rhythmic Pacific Ocean on one side and the towering and lush vertical cliffs on the other side, a beautiful contrast of aquamarine, gray, and emerald.
Along the walk, you’ll notice hidden sea caves eroded by the sea. One, in particular, sits halfway on the route, a large hollow measuring 10 meters (33 ft) deep. Walking the Nan’ao Mysterious Beach Trail is a pleasant stroll as the scenery is beautiful, the topography dramatic, and the shore largely secluded.
For fragrant forest walks and visiting an alpine lake, walk the Yuenshan Hiking Trail. You’ll find the dense broadleaf jungle of cedar, stone oak, and alder mostly shades the 6.5 km (4 mi) path.
Wildlife thrives alongside plant life. The thick grove is a haven for birds whose twittering and shrill bird song echoes under the forest canopy. You may also notice frogs jumping across the path, especially once you near the pond. The fertile forest also attracts other animals like the red-bellied squirrel and Taiwan macaque.
You’ll reach Mysterious Lake (神秘湖) just below the summit, named after the fog that clings to the surface and cloud cover from the rolling ocean. To best admire the pool, walk on the wooden boardwalk tracing the lake’s edge. A forest flanks one side of Mysterious Lake, adding layers of greenery to the still scene.
Further ahead, you’ll reach Yuen Shan’s mountain top, but its overgrown summit yields no views. However, the trail’s lush nature and vibrant ecology are highlights of walking the Yuen Shan Hiking Trail.
Situated south of the Nan’ao Mysterious Beach Trail is the marble Qingshui Cliffs (清水斷崖). Wait until low tide to venture along the pebble shoreline, where giant cliffs steeply rise 58 meters (190 ft) above the gray sand, facing the vast blue sea.
Soak up the theatrics of this stunning walk. Hear the waves crash against the shore and smell the salty sea lingering in the strong ocean breeze that whips through your hair. Watch for dolphins and whales swimming in the deep and admire the green coating of coastal shrubbery adorning the cliff.
Wushibi means Black Stone Nose in Chinese. While the volcanic rock is not visible through its dense foliage, Wushibi pierces the ocean with its grassy headland, creating a serene bay of blissful beauty.
While the government has banned entry for preservation, you can admire the stirring scene from above. A walkway along the coastal hills displays sweeping views of Wushibi Cliff, especially at Dongao Observation Deck. For a different perspective, board a sailing boat to admire the glorious bay’s pristine ecology. Whichever view you have, you’ll agree that Wushibi Cliff is one of the most beautiful scenes in Taiwan.
Embark on a journey through history and nature on the picturesque Nan'ao Historic Trail. Trek through a lush, verdant world of broadleaf trees, including Taiwan longan, sweetgum, and sandalwood, on this 3 km (1.8 mi) trail with elevations between 250 to 350 meters (820 to 1,148 ft).
Wander the trail full of ancient ruins from the past and be transported through time. After the first 750 meters (2,460 ft), you'll come across a breathtaking suspension bridge spanning the sparkling Nan River, offering magnificent views of the dense forest greenery. The bridge's sturdy design serves as a modern contrast to the old, historical bridge.
Make your way down to the river's edge, where giant boulders tower over the tranquil turquoise waters. Observe the thriving aquatic life, with clear waters revealing an array of freshwater fish and shrimp. Experience the beauty of nature and the rich history of the area on the Nan'ao Historic Trail.
Nestled in the Nan’ao Broadleaf Forest (南澳闊葉樹林自然保留區) is the seven-layered wonder of Jinyue Waterfall (金岳瀑布). The short 200-meter (656 ft) path is popular with travellers as, within moments, the majestic cascade unfolds before your eyes.
Considered one of Taiwan’s most beautiful valleys, Jinyue Waterfall won the hearts of movie directors as a film set. The picture-perfect rapid flows 30 meters (98 ft) into a turquoise pool of crystal clear water.
As the Suhua Coastal Reserve lies between two cities, it would be convenient to stay in Yilan City (宜蘭市) or Hualien City (花蓮市). Both places offer stunning attractions, both natural and manmade, and are close by, so you can spend a day exploring the other city.
A northern Taiwan gem, Yilan City is where Taipei (臺北市) residents relax on the weekend. Located close to the capital, it's the perfect day trip to escape the hustle and bustle for a relaxing retreat. With Taiwan’s top forests and nature spots nearby, you get out into the great outdoors and recharge on fresh mountain air and dense foliage.
Head up into the mountains of Taipingshan National Forest for a walk in the emerald woods. You’ll uncover historic remains of Taipingshan’s old logging days in the forest, from abandoned trolleys, discarded tools, and overgrown railways. Take in the breathtaking scenery of soaring mountains amongst the wispy sea of clouds. You’ll feel a world away from chaotic city living in the quiet and abundant countryside.
Then, visit one of Taiwan’s natural wonders, Su’ao Cold Springs. Only one of two in the entire world, locals and travelers flock here to experience this rare phenomenon. Containing high levels of carbon dioxide, the 72°F (22°C) water improves your skin’s condition, creating a glowing complexion, as well as improving blood circulation. You’ll notice the difference in how you look and feel after bathing at Su’ao Cold Springs, and you’ll want to head right back for another invigorating soak.
Next, admire the gorgeous scenery of Longtan Lake (龍潭湖), one of Yilan’s major lakes. Explore the many hiking trails that lead through luscious broadleaf forests and pass by striking temples. Yilan’s largest body of water of 17 ha (42 ac), locals love spending weekends at Longtan Lake to admire its serene beauty and escape into the calming quietness of its lush setting.
South of Yilan City is eastern Taiwan’s coastal wonder, Hualien City. Gateway to Taiwan’s top scenic attractions like Taroko National Park, Lintian Forest (林田山林業文化園區), and a glorious golden shoreline, travellers love basing themselves in Hualien City to explore its natural surroundings.
You won’t want to miss one of Taiwan’s most stunning attractions, Taroko National Park’s marble cliffs and steep gorges. A bucket list item for travelers visiting Taiwan, the natural beauty of this park is one you don’t want to miss. Tread along the cliffside to admire the swirling marble walls dropping vertically into the snaking Liwu River. The contrast of the sapphire stream against the milky and ashen rock coated in greenery is a sight beyond words.
Another Hualien City favourite is visiting the manicured Pine Garden for the glorious city and ocean views. It also attracts locals and travellers for historical reasons, as it once hosted lavish sending-off parties for Japanese kamikaze pilots during the Japanese Occupation Era. The stately building has been well-maintained, and it's a beautiful sight with the lush green lawns and towering pine trees.
Finally, dip your feet in the sea at Qixingtan Beach (七星潭). A Hualien City hotspot, the pebbled shore is reminiscent of Suhua Coastal Reserve’s beaches, with steep mountains on one side and the neverending Pacific Ocean on the other side. Visit during the week for a quieter break, but it's a vibrant place on the weekend for a fun day out.
Take the local express train (TRA) from Taipei Main Station to Nan’ao Station. From here, it's a 2.5 km (1.5 mi) walk to the northern parts of the Suhua Coastal Reserve. To venture south, alight at Hanben Station or Heping Station, both situated within walking distance of the bays and mountains. Alternatively, hire a car or scooter if you prefer your own transport. It's a 93 km (58 mi) journey from Taipei and a 45 km (28 mi) drive from Yilan City.
Explore Suhua Coastal Reserve (蘇花海岸保護區) with the PeakVisor 3D Map and identify its summits.
