Visit Gaomei Wetlands to admire the intertidal zone & walk on boardwalks to avoid straying into the “core area”

▲ Beautiful sunset view at Gaomei Wetlands in Taichung. (Photo / Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

The scenic Gaomei Wetlands in Taichung attract numerous visitors, but many forget it’s a protected conservation area and often wander into “restricted zones.” In 2013 alone, 46 people violated the rules, resulting in fines totaling NT$2 million. In response, the Taichung City Government recently completed the installation of wooden boardwalks, allowing the public to observe the wetlands’ intertidal flora and fauna up close while also helping to protect the ecosystem.

▲ Boardwalk at Gaomei Wetlands. (Photo / Courtesy of the Taichung City Agriculture Bureau website)

The Taichung City Agriculture Bureau noted that the Gaomei boardwalk incorporates the concept of an ecological corridor, offering visitors the chance to closely observe the wetland ecosystem. The goal is to realize the principle of “keeping visitors on the boardwalks and the wetlands for the intertidal creatures.” Here, apart from enjoying the famous Gaomei sunset, visitors can also observe fiddler crabs, sandpipers, and herons foraging nearby.

The Gaomei Wildlife Conservation Area announced a zoned management system on June 22, 2012 (101 year, 6th month, 22nd day in Taiwan calendar), dividing the area into a “core zone” and “buffer zone” where entry is prohibited, and a “sustainable use zone” open for visitor experience activities.

After the completion of the boardwalk, both sides fall within the core and buffer zones. Visitors standing on the boardwalk can enjoy the beautiful ecology without fear of breaking the law or being penalized. Walking along the boardwalk leads to the sustainable use zone.