Wugui Cave Scenic Area Introduction
The name alone suggests that there is something mysterious hidden here. According to the inscriptions on the coral reef wall, Wugui Cave has a true and tragic history related to enslaved Africans. During the Yongli period of the Ming Dynasty, Zheng Chenggong expelled the Dutch and successfully restored Taiwan and the Penghu Islands. However, some of the black slaves who were brought to Taiwan by the Dutch for forced labor were abandoned on Xiaoliuqiu. These slaves later escaped to hide in this cave. After a few years, a ship carrying British troops landed at Babang. The slaves who lived in the area took advantage of the moment to seize valuables and nearly killed all the British soldiers. Soon after, the supporting troops of the British discovered this tragedy, leading to the annihilation of the slaves residing in the cave by fire due to a lack of intelligence. Thus, it came to be known as "Wugui Cave." During the time when the enslaved people took refuge in the cave, many artifacts such as stone bowls, stone chairs, stone tables, and stone beds were left behind. Jewelry and silverware have also been discovered. Unfortunately, due to a collapse, the entrance has become completely blocked, making it inaccessible today. Although a tragic event occurred at Wugui Cave, visitors need not fear or hesitate, as the natural beauty of the area will leave them enchanted and in awe. The Wugui Cave Scenic Area is located at the southwestern tip of Xiaoliuqiu, with attractions including Haoran Pavilion, Bitou Pavilion, Ganquan, Yiqiao, Liechi, Youqing Valley, and BieyouTian. The most famous landscape feature is the coral reef cave. The rocky caves in the hilly terrain seem like a labyrinth within the scenic area. The interior is narrow and winding, with little light getting through, making it almost impossible to see one’s hands in the dark. If one wishes to explore, it is essential to bring a flashlight to ensure safety. Near Wugui Cave, deep impressions of two large clam fossils can be found etched into the coral reef cliffs. Research indicates that these fossils are hundreds of thousands of years old, measuring about one meter in diameter, and the surface patterns are still quite clear. This is one of the most valuable attractions within the Wugui Cave Scenic Area.
