Shuangshi Rock Introduction
Lanyu, also known as Orchid Island, was formed by underwater volcanic eruptions, primarily consisting of andesite lava and basaltic aggregates. Over many years of coastal erosion and weathering, hard and weather-resistant rock blocks were left behind, resulting in various interesting rock formations. The coastline is scattered with rocks of diverse shapes, which were named by the Han people based on their appearances, such as Shuangshi Rock (Double Lion Rock), Junjian Rock (Warship Rock), Gangkuan Rock (Helmet Rock), Xiangbi Rock (Elephant Trunk Rock), Longtou Rock (Dragon Head Rock), Laoren Rock (Old Man Rock), Mantou Rock (Steamed Bun Rock), Hongtou Rock (Red Head Rock), Eluosi Rock (Crocodile Rock), Tank Rock, Yunu Rock (Jade Girl Rock), and Mother Hen Rock, all of which resemble their namesakes vividly. The miraculous nature shaped the island's hard rocks as if they were made of clay, making Lanyu an outdoor gallery of large stone sculptures. Shuangshi Rock is located on the northeast corner, facing the island's round-the-island highway and backing the Pacific Ocean. It is a natural landscape formed by the cooling of lava ejected during volcanic activity, resembling a pair of male and female lions gazing affectionately at each other from a distance, with the female lion showing a small cub behind her, presenting a warm and joyful scene. From the sea looking towards land, Shuangshi Rock appears to be split in two, and the Tao people (Yami people) refer to this rock as Ji Panatosan, which means the boundary between the two tribes of "Dongqing" and "Lang Island." In the hearts of fishing enthusiasts, Shuangshi Rock is not only a natural stone sculpture but also a rare championship fishing spot! From the direction of the island circumnavigation highway towards the Pacific Ocean, fishermen refer to the female lion rock with the small cub on the right as "North Lion" and the male lion on the left as "South Lion." They often prioritize North Lion as a fiercely contested area, with many championship anglers achieving excellent results here! The main catches include dragon fish, grouper, autumn fish, and rough-skinned porgy, and the local indigenous people are often seen diving for lobsters in the waters here. Not only can visitors appreciate the beauty of the landscape, but they can also experience the joy of fishing. Near Shuangshi Rock, the beach is covered with creeping saddle vines, and a large expanse of green is dotted with a few purple flowers, intertwining with the blue sea and sky to form a beautiful picture, enhanced by the sunlight. Approaching the shore, the rich ecological scenery of the coral reef intertidal zone reveals itself during low tide, making it an ideal ecological classroom. When traveling to Lanyu, visitors often use bicycles or scooters to ride along the round-the-island road, enjoying the local scenery. Famous attractions include the sunrise at Dongqing Bay, the pristine tropical rainforest atmosphere of Daitian Pool, and the natural sea erosion archway at Lover's Cave, all of which are well-known tourist spots worth visiting. More travel tips for Lanyu can be found here.