Nantou Zhushan

　　   Zhushan is one of the five major towns in Nantou, named for its many bamboo-covered hills. It is known for its bamboo handicrafts and food products, red sweet potatoes, and oolong tea, and has many historic sites, particularly the popular Shadong Temple and Lianxing Temple. The former, commonly called the Zheng Chenggong Temple, is named after its location in the eastern part of the Shuishalian area. It holds grand spring and autumn ceremonies every January and August. The latter is dedicated to Mazu, flanked by the Thousand-Mile Eye and the Wind-Following Ear, both exquisitely carved by Fuzhou artisans and incredibly lifelike. The rise of nearby tourist spots such as the Shuishe Forest Recreation Area, Shanlinxi Forest Recreation Area, and Phoenix Valley Scenic Area has rapidly boosted Zhushan’s prosperity, making it a key supply and transit hub for these destinations.