Houshe Reef Introduction
The Hou-shih Skirt Reef is located along the southeastern coast of Xiao Liuqiu, where a continuous marine erosion platform can be found. Due to long-term erosion by seawater, the platform exhibits numerous uneven pits, and on both sides of the island's circular road, visitors can easily spot astonishingly shaped rocks that attract many tourists. The coral reefs here often resemble familiar animals or figures, leading to various interesting associations. The Climbing Tiger Rock, as the name suggests, is a rock that resembles a climbing tiger. On the slope covered with green grass, there is a rock that appears to be stretching out its limbs in a struggle to climb. It was once an unremarkable stone, but due to tectonic uplift, the coral reef rock was raised above sea level. Erosion by seawater along the rock's joints gradually led to the disintegration and collapse of the coral reef, resulting in what is now known as Climbing Tiger Rock. The Guanyin Rock is another unique stone. In the Buddhist world, Guanyin Bodhisattva embodies compassion and love for all beings, holding an esteemed position in people's hearts. Many turn to Guanyin in times of hardship, quietly praying for relief from adversity. This peculiar stone by the coast appears to be a Guanyin figure deep in thought, gazing out to sea. In a beautiful imagination, this Guanyin Rock may well be a protective stone for the peace of Xiao Liuqiu. The Red Fan Rock is a fascinating rock that presents two contrasting appearances. Known commonly as Red Fan Rock due to its resemblance to the face of a Native American, it has drawn some debate over its likeness. However, some have also given it a new association, as its green grassy patches scattered across the rock strangely resemble Kaohsiung’s former mayor, Chen Chu. If you have the chance, you might want to compare it in person! Of course, the unique rock formations in Xiao Liuqiu are not limited to these; there are countless other oddly shaped rocks resembling wild boars, mice, monkeys, frogs, parrots, and more. Just by changing your perspective a little, you might discover unexpected new shapes.
