Taiyuan Gorge Introduction
Taiyuan Gorge is located on the southern side of the Taiwan provincial highway 23, between the Taiyuan and Donghe tribes. It is named for the gorge's scenic beauty formed by the erosion of the Mawuku River. The most picturesque section is from Dengxian Bridge to Taiyuan Village, where the majestic and deep gorge contrasts with the abundant clear waters, giving it the nickname "Little Tianxiang." When traveling by car or motorcycle, the steep mountainsides feel just within reach, allowing one to experience the fresh mountain air and cool breezes, while listening to the chirping of birds and the sounds of cicadas. Upon entering the Taiyuan Basin, the expansive views of the basin are stunning, with the Coast Mountains appearing lush and green in the distance, a truly delightful sight. The area around the gorge is also a habitat for the Formosan macaque, where groups of monkeys can often be seen foraging and playing in the woods, attracting many tourists for observation and photography. It is recommended to combine your visit with the Denge Bridge recreation area and Taiyuan Village to enjoy the monkey ecology and the beauty of Taiyuan Gorge, before heading to Taiyuan Village to taste and purchase agricultural products nourished by the clear stream. The pomelo harvested from October to November each year is particularly large and rich in vitamin C, offering a sweet and slightly tart flavor that keeps customers coming back. The rice grown in the deep mountains is of astonishing quality, aided by the misty, humid environment that allows the grains to absorb ample moisture, making it incredibly delicious. A small reminder: when observing the monkeys, it's advisable to maintain a safe distance and avoid bringing food, as it may attract them and cause unexpected encounters or conflicts. If the monkeys show aggressive behavior, please move away quickly and be especially cautious when taking photos.
