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On the southeastern coastline of Taiwan is the biologically rich sea and landscape of Juipeng Coastal Reserve (九棚沿海保護區). Chuanqishan (川七山) is the only named mountain in the region, measuring 205 meters (673 ft).
Jiupeng Coastal Reserve lies in Pingtung County’s (屏東縣) Manzhou Township (滿州鄉), located above the Nanren Mountain Ecological Reserve (南仁山生態保護區). Covering an area of 1,380 ha (3,410 ac), Jiupeng Coastal Reserve includes 20-meter (66 ft) isobaths in the ocean, while inland broadleaf forest covers 532 ha (1,315 ac).
A region of coral reefs, coastal plants, and sandy beaches stretching for 3 km (1.8 mi), Jiupeng Coastal Reserve boasts the largest sand dune in southern Taiwan’s Hengchun Peninsula. Along the shore are eroded sea platforms from the strong wind and seas.
As with most of eastern Taiwan, Jiupeng Coastal Reserve receives high rainfall of 2,600 mm (102 in) due to summer typhoons. As Jiupeng Coastal Reserve is located in southern Taiwan, it's one of the warmer areas with a tropical monsoon climate with an annual average of 77°F (25°C).
While Juipeng Coastal Reserve is in a remote area of Taiwan, numerous nature reserves and other natural scenic areas surround the sandy region. In the north, there is Xuhai-Guanyinbi Nature Reserve (旭海-觀音鼻自然保留區), while Kenting National Park (墾丁國家公園) is south. To the west is Jianshan Coastal Reserve (尖山沿海保護區), while Taiwan’s offshore Orchid Island (蘭嶼) is east.
Jiupeng Coastal Reserve’s rock formations comprise hard shale, while along the shore is an uplifted coral reef formed of limestone. Chaunqishan belongs to the southern extension of the Central Mountain Range (中央山脈) and has a geological composition of shale and sandstone from the mid to late Miocene epoch.
There’s a healthy mix of coastal and broadleaf forest plants in the Juipeng Coastal Reserve. Saddle vine, yellow daylily, and the Chinese fan palm are some coastal plants that grow along the dunes and near the beaches. Plants like moon peach, yellow sage, and the parasol leaf tree thrive near Chanqishan, among the inland broadleaf forests.
The wildlife is just as diverse, with 30 bird species, six groups of butterflies, nine types of mammals, and a coral reef ecosystem. The maroon oriole is one of the rare birds known to inhabit the reserve, while the blue-bellied pheasant is endemic to the region. Taiwan’s largest butterfly, the yellow swallowtail, also inhabits this area.
Pingtung County, located in southern Taiwan, is home to the indigenous Paiwan people who have inhabited the region for centuries. Using their extensive knowledge of the lush rainforests, the Paiwan lead ecotours for visitors exploring Pingtung’s fertile land.
One historic incident in the southern territory of Taiwan is still remembered today. In 1887, an Okinawan boat wrecked near Taiwan's southern territory, and 66 sailors sought refuge on land. Paiwan locals killed 54 sailors; 12 escaped and reported the incident to the Japanese government.
Despite Japan's request, the Qing dynasty refused to investigate. Perceived indifference led to the Mudan Incident in 1874, where the Japanese took revenge and massacred the village people. The incident increased tensions between Japan and the Qing Dynasty, leading to the dynasty's decision to initiate the immigration of Han settlers into Taiwan to boost the Chinese population, ultimately changing the region's demographic makeup.
Explore these hiking trails and areas in and around Jiupeng Coastal Reserve for the most scenic walks:
Jiupeng Great Desert's (九棚大沙漠) seashore is reminiscent of a vast desert landscape, with rippling sand dunes undulating across a 20 ha (49 ac) beach. This beach is connected to the Gangzhi Desert (港仔大沙漠), creating an even larger desert wonder to explore.
The large desert-like terrain at this location is formed by the accumulation of sand in the Jiupeng River’s estuary over an extended period, combined with the blowing of the northeast monsoon. This area is constantly changing due to the impact of the northeast monsoon, resulting in beautiful and ever-changing patterns on the sand.
Locals adore spending time at the beach, basking in the sun, and immersing themselves in the serene ambiance while lying on the dunes. At night, the beach transforms into a magnificent spot to gaze at the sparkling night sky. While visiting, don't be surprised to see locals riding jeeps along the sand.
Embark on a scenic hike along the lush and verdant meadows of Jiupeng Bitou (九棚鼻頭). Tracing the path of the Jiupeng River, this 2.4 km (1.5 mi) trek leads you toward the Pacific Ocean, where the landscape changes from emerald grasslands to a billowing turquoise sea.
During the hike, you'll observe the graceful Taiwan sika deer grazing and water buffaloes bathing in the creek. The sight of the endless cobalt vision where the sky meets the sea is truly mesmerizing.
The coastal route is home to various plant life, including emerald lintou, she-oak, hawthorn trees bordering the flatlands, and the Himalayan fairy grass flourishing in the coastal meadow. This open field is an excellent location to witness sunrise’s dramatic arrival each morning, as the warm glow illuminates the surroundings.
To preserve the area's primitive ecology, the Nanren Shan Ecological Trial inside the Nanren Mountain Ecological Reserve allows only 400 visitors daily. Plan your trip in advance to explore this stunning jungle of over 1,200 vascular plants and raw beauty.
You'll encounter precious wildlife while navigating the 4 km (2.4 mi) path through the tropical rainforest. Take care as frogs hop across the trail and listen to the chirping cicadas and shrilling birdsong. During winter, look up to witness gray-faced vultures migrating south.
Your journey leads to Nanren Lake (南仁湖), a 28 ha (69 ac) freshwater pond where you can spot the yellow-gray crab tilling soil on the lake's edge. Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the primitive broadleaf forest that envelops the lake, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Another area to explore in the southern Nanren Mountain Ecological Reserve is the Wanlideshan Hiking Trail which involves traversing the verdant and shaded rainforest. The untamed foliage stretches in all directions through the luscious greenery, and you’ll brush against the leaves and shrubs along the narrow trail.
A short 3 km (1.8 mi) hike will take you to the open summit of Wanlideshan (萬里得山). As you ascend the green leafy tunnels, you’ll feel one with nature as you hear the sweet melody of birdsong in the damp, dark forest. Be watchful for glimpses of butterflies darting through the path's foliage, a welcoming sight in the summer.
From the top of Wanlideshan, revel in the stunning panoramic view of coastal hills and the turquoise ocean. To the south, you can spot the peaks of Dashanmushan (大山母山) and Dajianshishan (大尖石山), leading to the Bashi Channel (巴士海峡). Glancing east, you’ll notice Piyishan (埤亦山) extending towards the Pacific Ocean. To the west, you'll find Laofoshan (老佛山) and the Taiwan Strait's waters lapping on the shore.
Situated north of Jiupeng Coastal Reserve is the Alangyi Ancient Road’s sandy shoreline. Experience the rugged beauty of Taiwan's coastal landscape on a 12 km (7.4 mi) trek that winds from Nantian Village (南田村) in Taitung County (臺東縣) to Xuhai Village (旭海村) in Pingtung County (屏東縣). The stunning deep blue sea views accompany you throughout the hike as you traverse pebble beaches and gentle terrain.
Watch for green turtles swimming in the intertidal zone and observe the fascinating behavior of coconut crabs on the rocky bays. The hike also offers the chance to admire the stunning rock formations that have been weathered by the relentless power of the ocean.
As you climb to the highest points of the journey, such as Guanyin Shan (觀音山), take a moment to appreciate the panoramic views of the adjacent Xuhai-Guanyinbi Nature Reserve's lush subtropical rainforest. From the summit of Guanyin Shan, you can also marvel at the nearby hills of Nantian Shan (南田山), Taihe Shan (太和山), and Qigu Balin Shan Dongfeng (耆古巴林山東峰).
Discover the natural beauty of Taiwan at the Dongyuan Forest Recreation Area (東源森林遊樂區), where lush mahogany woodlands and diverse wetland ecology await. Take a stroll to Dongyuan Lake (哭泣湖), surrounded by graceful willow trees and blooming lotus flowers.
En route to the lake, you'll be enchanted by a trail of wild ginger, which transforms into a blanket of milk blossoms during summer. Watch for the striking swallowtail butterflies that flit through the wild mahogany forest on your way to Dongyuan Lake.
At the lakeside viewing platform, take in the panoramic views of the shimmering pond and the undulating hills that serve as a picturesque backdrop, including Taihe Shan, Shangmudandong Shan (上牡丹東山), and Mudanbi Shan (牡丹鼻山).
When planning a trip to the remote Jiupeng Coastal Reserve, one of the best places to stay is the charming Daren Township (達仁鄉) in Taitung County, just above the beachy area. Another scenic place to stay is Hengchun Township (恆春鄉) in the south, where Taiwan’s southern seas break onto the white sand shoreline.
Daren Township is a hidden gem in southern Taiwan, the primary region of the Paiwan people’s vibrant culture and traditions. The township is situated amidst a verdant wonderland of lush green forests, stunning mountains, and pristine waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Make sure to include a visit to the Dawu Keteleeria Nature Preservation Area (大武臺灣油杉保護區) if you want to get lost in nature. Here, you will find breathtaking groves of thousand-year-old trees thriving in an emerald environment. These trees are relics from the last glacial maximum and are regarded with divine status by the Paiwan people. Tracing the area's hilly terrain will reward you with stunning views of Taiwan's pristine and untouched land.
Another one of Daren Township’s must-see nature spots is the idyllic charm of Nantian Coastal Park (南田海岸親水公園). Take off your shoes and enjoy the sensation of fine gravel under your feet as you stroll along the beach. The turquoise expanse of the ocean offers a stunning backdrop to the wicker huts that dot the shore. While you're there, watch for the smooth and gray spotted Nantian pebbles the beach is famous for.
Finally, to round off your nature-filled adventure in Daren Township, visit the Tjuwabal Paiwan Culture and Art Community (台東縣達仁鄉土坂村集會所). As a Paiwan stronghold, it offers an opportunity to engage with the rich cultural practices of Taiwan's indigenous people, from their cuisine to their art and architecture. Take time to examine the incredible stonework, carvings, and the Paiwan’s paintings. Afterward, sit down to a wholesome meal featuring locally grown vegetables.
Hengchun Township is often seen as a rest stop on the way to Kenting National Park, but it offers much more. This charming town boasts a unique blend of history and natural beauty that will captivate visitors. Its relaxed atmosphere is inviting and compelling, and you'll quickly find that time seems to tick differently in this fascinating destination.
There’s no denying that Hengchun Township’s main attraction is Kenting National Park. The park boasts stunning, endless stretches of sandy beaches, as well as a subtropical forest of banyan trees and fascinating, fairy-like stalactite caves. The park's year-round blue skies and warm weather make it a perfect destination for those seeking a southern Taiwan paradise.
Hengchun Old Town is a fascinating destination for history buffs and those wanting to soak in Taiwan’s culture. Remnants of the past can be found throughout the town, including the old South Gate and West Gate. The old city walls, which once bordered Hengchun’s ancient center, are still intact, and visitors can tour them. Exploring the old town, you'll find well-preserved ancient buildings and bustling markets selling traditional Taiwanese goods.
Check out the annual Hengchun Pole Climb for a flavor of local pastimes. Teams compete to climb a 12-meter (39 ft) rod in a race to the top. The origins of this odd competition date back to when Hengchun was a prosperous city, and the wealthy sought a way to distribute their money. Today, the Hengchun Pole Climb is purely for entertainment, and many people come to the small township to participate.
Southern Taiwan is remote, with few railways operating on the Hengchun Peninsula. It’s best to hire a car or scooter to get to Jiupeng Coastal Reserve. First, make your way to Pingtung City via the local express train (TRA), then make your 121 km (95 mi) journey to the Jiupeng Coastal Reserve.
Explore Jiupeng Coastal Reserve with the PeakVisor 3D Map and identify its summits.
