Hit the mountains and sea in Ruisui — an exciting one-day town escape!

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family, compiled and reported
 
Ruisui Township belongs to Hualien County. To the east, it neighbors the Pacific Ocean along the Coastal Mountain Range; to the west lies the Central Mountain Range, and to the south is Wuhe Plateau, famous for its Tianhe tea. It is one of the most beautiful rural towns on the Tropic of Cancer. Take a weekend and bring your family for a fun trip to Ruisui!

The development of dairy farming in the Ruisui area has a history of over ten years and has now become one of the key agricultural sectors in Ruisui Township, as well as the largest dairy cattle farming area in Hualien County. The Uni-President fresh milk produced at Ruisui Ranch has become synonymous with high-quality dairy, and the ranch's expansive scenery also makes it an educational and enjoyable destination.

Stretching 25 kilometers from Ruisui Bridge to Changhong Bridge, the Xiuguluan River is known for its fast-flowing waters, multiple rapids, and stunning landscapes. With its winding and ever-changing river paths, the valley’s stones have been polished white by the water over the years, earning it the poetic name “Xiuguluan Washing Jade.” The usually pristine waters are home to various fish species, and the mountain-valley scenery is uniquely picturesque. It is now an internationally renowned rafting destination and is also one of Hualien’s Eight Scenic Spots.

The design of the Ruisui Tropic of Cancer Monument was initially conceived to harmonize with the local cultural and natural landscape. Its tower, base, and semicircular arching body are all distinctive. From afar or up close, the “tower” is slender at the top and thicker at the bottom with a moderate curve, resembling a heron standing tall and calling out. The semicircular “body” arches like the bird’s fanned-out tail feathers or a flowing cape, symbolizing that the monument is situated between Wuhe Village and He’gang Village.

Fuyuan Butterfly Valley Forest Recreation Area is home to the province’s largest camphor tree forest, with a natural stream running through it. The valley hosts over 30 species of butterflies and various protected wildlife, and the stream contains numerous fish species. In addition to the restaurant and cabins operated by the forest management office, the area offers travelers activities such as camping, butterfly watching, stream fishing, swimming, and hot springs.