Dingyan Bay Sigeshan Trail Introduction
Sigeshan is located in Dingyan Bay, Baling Village, Beinan Township, Taitung County, and is only a 20-minute drive from Taitung City Railway Station. Geologically, it is at the end of the Coastal Mountain Range, formed by the collision of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The name "Sigeshan" comes from the Paiwan language, meaning "the place for planting betel nut trees." Due to its advantageous terrain, it was designated as a military base with artillery during the Japanese colonial period. Although it has an elevation of only 410 meters, it is situated at a high point of the Taitung Plain, offering unobstructed views and making it an excellent spot for overlooking Taitung City and the surrounding mountainous landscape. It is also a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility in the bustling area around Taitung City and is suitable for leisurely hiking. The Sigeshan area has established hiking trails, with more than 200 steps leading from the trailhead to the summit. However, access to the trailhead requires driving along the narrow Dong 46 industrial road through the mountainous area. Following the stepped path, one can reach the summit viewing pavilion in less than half an hour. The pavilion is equipped with multiple self-guided interpretation boards for visitors to understand the surrounding landscape of the Taitung Valley Plain. Especially on clear days, the summit of Sigeshan provides unobstructed 360-degree views of the Taitung Plain, Beinan River, Lijia Badlands, Central Mountain Range, Jhiben’s Main Mountain, Dulan Mountain, and the Pacific Ocean. The fresh mountain air and natural ecology offer a refreshing experience, leaving a profound and beautiful impression on those who visit.
