Yuxia Cloud Waterfall, Gaga Ecological Pool Introduction
In the local Atayal community of Xiayun Village, an old legend tells that the devil resides in the pond; the bottomless blue-green water, the "resurrecting" aquatic plants, and the mysterious birds and beasts create an enchanting atmosphere. The waterfall, guarded by ancestral spirits, fills one with reverence and compels you to step back. If you're always full of curiosity, why not include the local hidden gems—the Youxiayun Waterfall and Gagaga Ecological Pool—in your must-visit list! From Xiayun Elementary School, walk about 400 meters along the Kuchi Road to arrive at the legendary ecological pool. Instead of a ghostly atmosphere, you’ll feel as if you’re in Jiuzhaigou! Stepping onto the viewing platform, the dreamy water colors formed by wild ginger flowers, cattails, umbrella plants, and moneywort, along with various microorganisms, are captivatingly beautiful. The ecologically rich water comes from underground springs and rainfall, and when winter leaves the waters shallow and the aquatic plants dry up, a refreshing downpour instantly restores their vitality. Apart from the occasional roar of passing vehicles, the sounds of insects and birds provide the only background music in this preserved natural ecological pool, which houses diverse species such as frogs, reptiles, and birds—a small Eden. During April and May, fireflies make mysterious appearances, lighting up beautifully! Walking down along the Kuchi Trail next to the ecological pool for about ten minutes, you'll enter the wooden boardwalk next to the viewing platform, which leads about 20 meters to the middle of Kuchi River, home to the Youxiayun Waterfall at an altitude of about 600 meters. The waterfall's name is derived from the phonetics in the Atayal language, meaning "cradle of life." Unlike the tranquility of the ecological pool, the powerful sound of rushing water can be heard while walking on the boardwalk. As the sound grows louder, it heightens the anticipation of experiencing the waterfall in person. Upon reaching the platform, you can not only feel the shocking force of the abundant water up close but also enjoy a surge of negative ions, allowing your body and mind to breathe freely.
