The Beauty of Desolation: A Stunning Aerial View of Kaohsiung’s Tianliao Devil’s Valley

▲ Aerial view of Tianliao Devil’s Valley in Kaohsiung. (Photo /Flying in the SkyProvided)

Reported by Chen Hanyin / Compiled report

This barren landscape is likely familiar to many. Whenever traveling along National Highway 3 and passing through Kaohsiung, you might catch a glimpse of a corner of Tianliao Devil’s Valley. Its stark, unique terrain shrouds it in mystery. From an aerial perspective, photographers capture the “beauty of badlands” in its full glory, leaving viewers in awe.

▲ Badland terrain is unsuitable for plant growth, making these bare hills a unique sight. (Photo /Flying in the SkyProvided)

The unique landscape of Devil’s Valley is geographically referred to as “badland” — a type of muddy rock region formed from sandstone, shale, and other soft sedimentary layers, along with chalky landforms. After years of erosion from rainwater, rugged terrains are shaped. Due to the high alkalinity of the chalky soil, which hinders plant growth, the distinctive features such as earth pillars, gullies, and muddy traces form an extraordinary appearance.

▲ Rolling ridges and the gray-blue lake surface. (Photo /Flying in the SkyProvided)

There are four major scenic spots in Taiwan known for their badland landscapes. Within Kaohsiung County, there are those in Neimen, Tianliao, and Yanchao. Taitung’s Beinan also features Liji Devil’s Valley. Viewed from above, the sharp ridges layered together with sparse vegetation, and the exposed mudstone add a desolate charm — a beauty born of desolation.

Tianliao Devil’s Valley

Address: No. 36, Moon Road, Tianliao District, Kaohsiung City
Transportation: Take National Highway 3, exit at Tianliao Interchange, then connect to Provincial Highway 28
Public Transport: Take TRA to Kaohsiung Station, then transfer to Kaohsiung Bus (bound for Qishan) and get off at Devil’s Valley Stop.