Shuangshi Rock Introduction
Lanyu was formed by the eruption of an underwater volcano, and its landforms are primarily composed of andesite lava and basaltic agglomerate. Years of coastal erosion and weathering have left behind hard, resistant rock formations that create various interesting geological landscapes. Numerous uniquely shaped rocks are scattered along the coastline, and the Han people have named them based on their shapes, including Shuangshi Rock, Military Ship Rock, Helmet Rock, Elephant Nose Rock, Dragon Head Rock, Old Man Rock, Bun Rock, Red Head Rock, Crocodile Rock, Tank Rock, Jade Girl Rock, and Hen Rock, each resembling its namesake vividly. Nature has freely sculpted the island's hard rocks as if playing with clay, making Lanyu an outdoor exhibition of large stone sculptures. Shuangshi Rock is located at the northeastern corner, facing the round-the-island highway and with its back to the Pacific Ocean. It is a natural landscape formed by the cooling of lava ejected during volcanic activity, resembling a pair of lion cubs gazing at each other affectionately, with a little cub peeking out behind the mother lion, creating a heartwarming scene. From the sea looking onto the land, Shuangshi Rock appears to be split in two, and the Tao people (Yami people) refer to this rock as Ji Panatosan, meaning the boundary line between the "Dongqing" and "Lang Island" tribes. For fishing enthusiasts, Shuangshi Rock is not only a natural stone sculpture but also an exceptional fishing spot! Facing the Pacific from the round-the-island highway, the side with the little lion is called "North Lion," while the side with the male lion is referred to as "South Lion." Many anglers prefer the North Lion as it is a prime fishing area where numerous champion competitors have achieved great success! The main catch includes dragon snapper, grouper, autumn fish, and rough skin snapper, and the local indigenous people are often seen diving for lobsters in these waters. Here, visitors can not only enjoy the beauty of the earth's landscapes but also experience the fun of fishing. Nearby beaches are covered with creeping saddle vines, and a vast green sea is dotted with purple flowers, interweaving into a beautiful picture with the blue sea and sky under the sunlight, adding poetic charm. Approaching the coastline, the coral reef intertidal zone is rich in ecological scenery, where various organisms are revealed at low tide, creating an ideal ecological classroom. When traveling to Lanyu, visitors often use bicycles or scooters to circle the island along the highway, taking in the local sights. Notable attractions include the famous sunrise at Dongqing Bay, the pristine tropical rainforest charm of Daitian Pond, and the Lovers’ Cave with its natural coastal erosion gate, all of which are worth visiting. More Lanyu travel tips.