Sanmin Bat Cave Introduction
The Bat Cave is located in the northern valley of Sanmin Village, featuring a naturally formed massive rock cave. It is renowned for its beauty, known as the Water Curtain Cave, due to the spring water cascading down from above the cave entrance. Its rugged and primitive terrain, coupled with its location adjacent to the valley, attracts a large population of bats to reside here, hence the name "Bat Cave." Today, the ground inside the cave is covered with red soil, formed from the accumulation of bat droppings, hinting at the presence of thousands of bats that once roosted here, adding to the mysterious atmosphere. The entrance to the Bat Cave trail can be found at the end of Taiwan Provincial Highway 114, with the trail stretching about 600 meters. The path has a gentle slope and is paved with stone tiles, allowing visitors to reach the Bat Cave in approximately 20 minutes of walking. The trail is shaded by lush trees, making for a cool and comfortable stroll while also providing opportunities to appreciate rich natural ecology along the way. If visitors feel tired, they can rest for a moment on the wooden benches along the route, where the ground is also decorated with mosaic tiles featuring bat totems, prompting a smile. By continuing along the trail for about 444 meters, one can see a lookout tower designed like a spiral staircase. Visitors can ascend the curved stairs to enjoy views of the distant green hills, which can alleviate one's worries. Descending the path behind the pavilion next to the lookout leads to a staircase trail, where one can admire the natural scenery of the Sanmin Creek flowing gently. The rugged terrain of the Bat Cave is hidden within, with a pool in front of the cave and a large and small waterfall approximately 50 feet high. If not during the dry season, the waterfall's spray can be seen, with its sound echoing in the air—indeed a spectacular sight. Stepping onto the wooden platform, the waterfall cascades down into a deep pool approximately 10 meters in diameter, creating a cool and pleasant environment, making it a perfect summer retreat. The entrance of the Bat Cave is semi-circular, nestled between the cliffs by the creek, standing about 20 meters high, 50 meters wide, and 20 meters deep. Entering the cave sideways, the interior takes on a semi-circular shape reminiscent of a theater, with a unique and spacious design capable of accommodating a thousand people. It can be considered a rare natural giant cave, offering a unique experience. Although the bats have since migrated elsewhere, the profound and enigmatic cave landscape continues to attract numerous visitors eager to explore this wonder.
