Frog Cave Introduction
Shuiwa Cave is located in a small village between Fong Chui Sha and Eluanbi Park. In addition to the scenic pond of Shuiwa Cave, the surrounding area is covered with vast green grasslands, creating a tranquil and beautiful landscape. In earlier years, the water source here was abundant, and the pond was deeper and larger than what is seen today. Coupled with a large number of frogs inhabiting the area, the sound of frogs croaking continuously filled the air during summer or after rain, hence the name "Shuiwa Cave". However, the disappearance of every natural landscape seems to be unable to escape the factors of human destruction. Since the construction of the Jiae Highway 30 years ago, the long-term dumping of excavated sand and gravel nearby has gradually filled in Shuiwa Cave, and the pond water has slowly dried up, leading to a significant decrease in both the quantity and variety of frogs that originally inhabited the area. The once serene pond view is gone, and the adorable frogs are nowhere to be seen, marking the decline of Shuiwa Cave's beauty. In recent years, in order to restore Shuiwa Cave's former reputation of "unceasing frog croaks," local residents and the management office have initiated a restoration plan. This started with introducing a water source to create a natural ecological wetland, serving as a habitat for various species. Additionally, aquatic plants have been planted around Shuiwa Cave to enrich the ecological environment, facilitating the return of frog populations to the area and allowing the sound of frogs to resound once more. Furthermore, a cultural and ecological tourism plan for Shuiwa Cave has been developed, mapping out suitable travel routes and training local volunteer guides who, in the most persuasive capacity, lead visitors to understand the history and culture of the Shuiwa Cave community, visit the natural ecology by the pond, and wander through the lush green grasslands. With a bit of luck, one might even have an unexpected encounter with Formosan sika deer or Eurasian skylarks. Visiting Shuiwa Cave is akin to embarking on a deep cultural and ecological journey.
