Mataian Wetland Ecological Park Introduction
The Mataian Wetland Ecological Park is located at the foot of Masikh Mountain in Guangfu Township, Hualien, nestled against the Central Mountain Range and surrounded by mountains on three sides. Covering an area of nearly one hundred hectares, this natural marsh wetland is named "Mataian," which means "place full of tree beans" in the local Amis language, as the Amis people regard the tree bean as a symbol of good luck, carrying and sowing it everywhere. At the entrance of the Yinglü Farm, one can see a large sign that reads "Welcome to Lotus Country". Walking along the wooden pathway leads to breathtaking views. The distant mountains layer upon each other, while the clear Fudeng Creek meanders from south to north through the wetland, together with a continuous flow of springs, creating a rich and diverse ecological environment that nourishes the vibrant life of this marsh. The park is home to nearly a hundred species of aquatic plants, among which the Taiwanese duckweed, blooming with small yellow flowers, is a species unique to Taiwan. Additionally, the variety and quantity of birds, frogs, damselflies, dragonflies, and aquatic fish and shellfish are astonishing. In recent years, the Mataian Wetland has become known for its summer landscape lotus fields; during the height of summer, the lotus leaves cover the sky, and the lotus flowers bloom profusely, attracting many visitors who can enjoy the beauty of the lotuses up close along the wooden walkway.
