Chase the Tropic of Cancer this summer!“Spring Police Station & Sabah Stone Pillars” – Must-Visit Spots in Hualien

Reporter Chen Ziyin / Hualien Report

The Tropic of Cancer is like a precious necklace around the Northern Hemisphere, passing through 16 countries including Myanmar, India, Bangladesh

When visiting Hualien, travelers can wander along the sea, explore the mountains, or even trace the location of the Tropic of Cancer, embarking on a unique light travel experience dedicated to this special line. The East Rift Valley National Scenic Area Administration recommends must-visit attractions, such as the mysterious Sapab Stone Pillars, the meaningful Tropic of Cancer Monument Park, Sapabding Homestay, Dong Tea House, and Chunshe Police Station.

Read more: A precious necklace of the Northern Hemisphere – “Ruisui Summer Solstice 23.5°” welcomes the sunrise on the Tropic of Cancer >>>

1. Sapab Stone Pillars

▲The “Sapab Stone Pillars” on the Wuyue Plateau are among the most mystical sites in the East Rift Valley. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

The most mysterious attraction in the East Rift Valley, the “Sapab Stone Pillars,” consists of two massive rocks, standing 5.75 meters and 3.99 meters tall respectively, proudly on the Wuyue Plateau, overlooking the Red Leaf Valley. According to archaeologists, these stone pillars have stood here for about 3,000 years, which is why they are listed as a third-grade historical site by Hualien County Government and are an important relic of the Beinan Culture.

2. Tropic of Cancer Monument Park

▲The Tropic of Cancer Monument Park set against the blue sky. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

There are Tropic of Cancer monuments in Shuishang Township in Chiayi, Ruisui Township, and Fengbin Township in Hualien. The one in Ruisui Township was originally established in 1933 on the west side of Ruisui Railway Station. In 1981, due to railway expansion, it was relocated to its current location on the Wuyue Plateau. The white sundial structure stands under the blue sky and white clouds, symbolizing the significance of the Tropic of Cancer passing through this area. Around it are sculptures of the “Four Symbols” from ancient Chinese astronomy: the Azure Dragon of the East, the White Tiger of the West, the Vermilion Bird of the South, and the Black Tortoise of the North. The surrounding corridors feature informative signs explaining celestial phenomena and solar terms, giving the park a strong educational value.

 
▲Around the park are markers where no shadows are cast at noon and the “Four Symbols” of traditional Chinese astronomy. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

3. Chunshe Police Station

▲The line in the middle of the main entrance of Chunshe Police Station marks where the Tropic of Cancer passes. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

A straight line made of marble fragments leading up to the police station entrance marks the spot where the Tropic of Cancer crosses. Coupled with the sun symbol above, the Chunshe Police Station in Ruisui Township radiates sunshine. Even the friendly police officers here offer warm, sunny smiles. By crossing this Tropic of Cancer line, you can place your left foot in the subtropical zone and your right foot in the tropical zone — a fun experience indeed.

4. Sapabding Homestay
 
▲From Sapabding Homestay, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Xiuguluan River. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

Sapabding Homestay is located on the Wuyue Plateau. Though it may appear like an ordinary homestay, its breathtaking panoramic view overlooking the vast Xiuguluan River leaves travelers amazed. The owner, Lin Qinghe, a local born and bred, has transformed his home into a cozy and simple homestay. Meanwhile, his Vietnamese wife, Liang Qingping, is praised by guests for her exceptional cooking skills.

5. Dong Tea House
 
▲The champion honey-scented black tea from Wuyue comes from the second-generation tea growers of “Dong Tea House.” (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

When in Wuyue, tea tasting is a must-do activity. The tea shop owner, Ms. Nian Ada, the second-generation tea grower, gained fame in 2006 when she produced the “World Champion Tea” — the honey-scented black tea. Using natural and organic farming methods, she also grows Arabica coffee, maoxiang mi green tea, and yuzu-flavored tea. The pure and natural flavors are truly addictive after just one sip.