By MOOK Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported
The hot springs and natural beauty of Dongpu in Nantou are two major tourism assets of the area, situated at an altitude of about 1,200∼1,300 meters, adjacent to Yushan National Park, surrounded by high mountains such as Junshan, Wangxiangshan, and Yushan, where the Shalixian Stream, Rainbow Stream, and Chenyoulan Stream converge. Nestled against mountains and beside rivers, the environment offers different charms in each season. Besides soaking in hot springs, hiking and connecting with nature are also must-do activities when visiting Dongpu.
The hot springs of Dongpu in Nantou are near Yushan National Park, with beautiful surroundings. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
Dongpu Suspension Bridge
The Dongpu Suspension Bridge was completed at the end of 2005, located next to the large parking lot at the entrance to Dongpu Hot Springs. The bridge is about 195 meters long and was once the highest and longest of its kind in Taiwan. In front of the bridge stands a relief wall depicting a Bunun warrior pulling on ropes, evoking the image of holding the bridge steady. The bridge’s open design allows visitors to look straight down into the valley. Colorful projection lights are installed on both sides of the bridge deck and at both ends of the bridge piers. At night, beams of red, yellow, blue, green, and purple light alternate across the bridge, earning it the nickname “Harp Suspension Bridge.”
When visiting Dongpu, you can also stand on the Dongpu Suspension Bridge at night to enjoy the colorful lights reflecting off the valley. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
Dongpu Hot Springs
Dongpu Hot Springs are weak alkaline carbonated springs, suitable for both soaking and drinking, offering great benefits for health and beauty. Especially in an open-air hot spring, your mind can relax, helping you forget all stress and noise. The Dongpu Hot Spring area holds a hot spring festival lasting one and a half months every November and December. In addition to exciting performances by the Bunun people, there are also the renowned traditional eight-part harmony songs. The content of the annual event varies.
Those who wish to join the hot spring festival can inquire at local hot spring hotels. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
Bunun Tribe Village
The indigenous people of Dongpu belong to the largest of the five major Bunun groups (the Takbanuaz, Takebanuad, Takivatan, Takbanuaz, and Latlat), the Takebanuad. Each year, the Bunun people in the Dongpu area go up to the mountains to their ancestors’ former dwellings to hold events such as the Ear-Shooting Festival, Ancestor-Seeking Rituals, and Millet Harvest Festivals. Whenever there is a celebration, in addition to following traditional ancient rituals, there are also the world-famous Bunun eight-part harmony and millet harvest songs performed. In recent years, these ceremonies, once only for tribal members, have gradually opened to the public for viewing.
The Bunun tribe’s ceremonial events are quite spectacular and worth seeing. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
Shalixian Scenery
The Shalixian route is one of the main hiking paths, where plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, pear blossoms, peach blossoms, and poinsettias bloom in different seasons. Famous spots include the Taiwan Black Bear Monument, the Dongpu First Neighborhood Bunun village, and the Shalixian Lovers’ Suspension Bridge, all offering breathtaking views. The majestic mountains and murmuring streams create an expansive and serene landscape that refreshes the mind and spirit. Walking along the mountain peaks and waterside paths, with birds chirping and fresh air, makes it the perfect choice for exploring hidden gems.
When traveling to Dongpu, besides soaking in hot springs, you can also enjoy the fun of hiking and enjoying nature. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
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