Tsingtao Stone Pillar Introduction
The Saoba Stone Pillars are located on the northern hillside of Wuzhih Mountain, consisting of two towering stone pillars that rise from the dry land. These two massive pillars stand at heights of 5.75 meters and 3.99 meters, respectively. They appeared about 3,000 years ago and are the only prehistoric megalithic civilization remains in Taiwan, thus designated as a national third-class monument by the Ministry of the Interior. Questions about how these large stone pillars were transported to the plateau and erected, and where they originated, remain unanswered to this day. There are many related myths and legends in the area, including tales of hunter curses, Amis ancestors, puns on wooden boards, and transformations of wood into stone, which are fascinating indigenous stories. From a scientific perspective, archaeologists have determined, based on artifacts unearthed in the vicinity, that the Saoba Stone Pillars belong to the "Peinan Culture" remains of the late Neolithic period. The Huadong Valley Scenic Area Administration has constructed and organized a base approximately 72 meters long and wide around these two stone pillars, which have become known as the Saoba Stone Pillars in today's Ruisui Township. Facing the Hongye Creek valley, the Saoba Stone Pillars are positioned at a higher elevation, providing a wide view that overlooks the Xiuguluan River valley and the mountains on the opposite bank, creating a beautiful landscape. Under the renovation by the Huadong Valley Scenic Area Administration, this location has become a great spot for visitors to pause and rest.
