Caoling Scenic Area

　　The Caoling Scenic Area spans three administrative regions in Taiwan: Meishan Township in Chiayi County, Zhushan Township in Nantou County, and Gukeng Township in Yunlin County, with elevations ranging from 450 meters up to 1,750 meters, covering an area of over a thousand hectares. Surrounded by mountains, the area features uniquely diverse landforms, creating scenic spots such as the Penglai Waterfall, Cliff of Spring and Autumn, Cliff of Heroism, Water Curtain Cave, Frog Rock, Marvelous Cave, Valley of Soul, Twin Falls, Beaded Pools, and the Secluded Stream, collectively known as the “Ten Scenic Spots of Caoling.”

　　The terrain within the Caoling Scenic Area is roughly basin-shaped, with streams meandering through, offering a variety of naturally distinctive views. The massive earthquake of 1941 split the Juetao Mountain northwest of the main village of Caoling in half, instantly forming many unique landforms, rock formations, and valleys. For instance, both the Cliff of Spring and Autumn and the Valley of Soul are landscapes created by that earthquake. The Cliff of Spring and Autumn features a sheer cliff face, a straight vertical cut stretching about one kilometer long. The Valley of Soul is a gorge located two hundred meters below the lower end of the Cliff of Spring and Autumn, flanked by steep cliffs. At the northern end of the valley walls, three waterfalls cascade down from the top into the valley bottom, adding dynamic beauty to the entire scenic area.

　　In addition to its breathtaking scenery, the Caoling Scenic Area also boasts tempting local cuisine. Local delicacies such as freshwater snails, eels, loaches—the “Three Treasures” of the region—as well as freshwater fish and shrimp from the Qingshui Stream, are all favored dishes among hikers.

　　Caoling Scenic Area Must-visit reason: One of Taiwan’s regions richest in diverse landforms