Walami Trail - Tracing Historical Footprints Introduction
Walami Trail: A Journey Through History and Nature Located in Zhuoxi Township, the Walami Trail is part of the Batongguan Trail built during the Japanese colonial period. In 1915, the area experienced the "Kashipan Incident," resulting in the deaths of several Japanese police officers. The Japanese, realizing the difficulties in managing the indigenous people, planned the construction of the Batongguan Trail to cross the Central Mountain Range, which was completed in 1921. It stretches approximately 124.6 kilometers from Xinyi Township in Nantou County in the west to Yuli Township in Hualien County in the east. The eastern section from Naan to Walami (Walami Station) is 13.6 kilometers long and is known today as the "Walami Trail." In the Bunun language, Walami means "to do something together," and its pronunciation is similar to the Japanese word for "bracken," which is abundant in the area; thus, the Japanese named the station "Walami Station" after establishing it there. The Walami Trail is located within the boundaries of Yushan National Park, approximately a 10-minute drive from Yuli City. Before hiking, visitors can stop by the Naan Visitor Center to learn about the history of the Batongguan Trail and may also visit the nearby Naan Waterfall. Currently, the hike from the trailhead to Jiaxin is 4.5 kilometers and does not require special permits, making it a popular route for weekend visitors. However, the section from Jiaxin to Walami requires the application of mountain and park entry permits, making it more suitable for overnight trips and a favored route for hikers. As you walk along the trail starting from the trailhead, after about 500 meters, you’ll arrive at "Shanfeng." The place names along the trail—Shanfeng, Jiaxin, Huangma, and Walami—were once sites of Japanese police stations, now left only as relics for people to remember. The trail ascends along the Laku Laku Stream and features five suspension bridges crossing various valleys, which are one of the characteristics of the Walami Trail. Shortly after leaving Shanfeng, you will reach the Shanfeng No. 1 Bridge, where a gentle breeze blows and the view of distant mountains and deep valleys generates a sense of reverence for nature. The Shanfeng Waterfall, located next to Shanfeng No. 2 Bridge, can be admired from the bridge, showcasing the impressive sight of water cascading down the rock face. At the 4.5-kilometer mark, Jiaxin is equipped with facilities such as public toilets and pavilions, serving as the turnaround point for most day hikers who can take a break here before heading back. The Walami Trail not only boasts beautiful scenery but also rich cultural history and ecological landscapes. The journey from the trailhead to Walami Mountain Cabin spans 13.6 kilometers, with an elevation gain from 565 meters to 1,060 meters, making it a relatively easy hike suitable for beginners. The latter part of the trail is better suited for experienced hikers. Overall, Walami is an exceptional hiking route from any perspective.
Walaimu Trail: Searching for Historical Tracks 1
Walaami Trail: Searching for Historical Traces
