A Fairyland on Earth – Shanlinxi: Waterfalls, Springs, and Millennium Sacred Trees

▲ View of the Songlongyan Waterfall cascading down from afar.<<更多美图>>
 

By Intern Reporter Qiu Yunrong / Comprehensive Reporting & Photography

Stepping into Nantou’s Shanlinxi Forest Recreation Area feels like entering a fairyland. Hear the cascading waters of the Songlongyan Waterfall, surrounded by the sounds of insects and birds. Look up to witness nature’s masterpieces and down to admire the beauty of the ecosystem. It’s a favorite spot for hikers and a perfect place to unwind and de-stress.

The Shanlinxi Forest Eco-Resort is located in Zhushan Township, Nantou County, at an altitude of about 1,600 meters, covering an area of approximately 40 hectares. According to the Shanlinxi Forest Recreation Area website, the majestic and picturesque Songlongyan Waterfall has earned the title “The Premier Sight of Shanlinxi.”


▲ A close-up view of the Songlongyan Waterfall, where abundant water surges down during the rainy season, splashing water droplets everywhere – an ideal spot to escape the summer heat.

Dense forests surround the waterfall, and winding trails lead to its inner side. Viewed from afar, sunlight spills onto the clear stream, with mountain mist reflecting beautifully on the water’s surface, creating an atmosphere of tranquility that brings you closer to nature. Walking along the trail, you can feel the mist of the waterfall and the coolness of the stream, offering a refreshing sensation. Whether admired from near or far, the scenery is ever-changing and uniquely captivating.

Following the hiking trail, ancient red cypresses hidden deep in the mountains come into view. Red cypress is a rare and precious tree species unique to Taiwan. The famous Alishan Sacred Tree is also a red cypress. According to the website, the age of the Millennium Red Cypress is estimated to be around 4,000 years, with a hollow diameter of 2.5 meters. Despite enduring years of sun and rain, it still stands firmly.


▲ The sacred red cypress tree.

The forest park features multiple trails categorized by three hiking difficulty levels. One of them, the Leshan Trail, stretches 1,200 meters and takes about 20 minutes to walk. Lush treetops provide ample shade along both sides of the path, making you feel as if you’re bathing in the forest’s phytoncides — refreshing and pleasant.

At the end of the trail, you can follow the forest road to the Herbal Garden to enjoy the beauty of blooming flowers. Currently, it’s the blooming season for bellflowers, which flourish from spring to early autumn (April to October). Various types of bellflowers bloom together, their slender and drooping flower stems forming tubular calyxes that resemble joyful little lanterns. Upon closer inspection, you may even spot bees gathering nectar.<<更多美图>>