Text by the editorial team of MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network

Er’liao, situated in the Siraya National Scenic Area, has long been a favorite spot among photographers. Many iconic sunrise images were captured here. Last year, the small sunrise viewing pavilion drew hundreds of people to watch the first light of the New Year. This year, to create a more refined and high-quality sunrise viewing atmosphere, the Siraya Scenic Area Administration specially organized a competition, allowing only invited guests to access the pavilion.

The Er’liao sunrise has long been known for“the lowest-altitude sea of clouds,” “closest proximity to the city,” and “the longest line of sight for sunrise”— unique geographical features that attract many visitors. The most popular sunrise viewing spot is the “Sunrise Viewing Pavilion” built by the administration. This all-wooden structure sits at the highest point in the area. In addition to watching the sunrise, visitors can take in the dramatic badland landscapes and feel the powerful flow of the sea of clouds.

This year marks the arrival of 2015, perfectly aligning 2014 (Love You Forever) with 2015 (Love You a Kiss), so the theme of the event is “One Love, One Kiss.” A love essay competition has been launched. Participants must submit a 150–300 word love declaration on the Siraya Management Office’s official Facebook event page before 11:00 AM on December 20, tag two friends to boost visibility, and invite family and friends to leave comments and likes. The top five most popular entries will be invited to the Sunrise Viewing Pavilion to witness the New Year’s Day sunrise, enjoy a romantic and refined breakfast, and greet the dawn of 2015 in an atmosphere full of love.

The head of the Siraya Scenic Area Administration stated that Er’liao’s terrain is small and cannot handle large crowds, so visitor numbers are limited each year. This year’s sunrise event will feature carefully managed personnel and activities to emphasize quality and atmosphere. The hope is to position Er’liao as a new romantic destination while offering visitors a comfortable place to enjoy the sunrise and welcome the happiness of the New Year.

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