Sawanbashi Column Introduction
The Saobao Stone Pillars are located on the northern hillside of the Wuzhuo Plateau, consisting of two upright stone columns that rise from the ground. These two massive stone pillars, standing at heights of 5.75 meters and 3.99 meters respectively, appeared around 3,000 years ago, making them the only prehistoric megalithic civilization relics in Taiwan. As such, they have been designated by the Ministry of the Interior as a Level 3 national monument. There are still unanswered questions about how these two large stone pillars were transported to the plateau and erected, as well as where they originated. Numerous related myths and legends exist in the area, including tales of hunter curses, the Amis ancestors, homophones related to wooden planks, and the transformation of wood into stone, all of which are intriguing indigenous stories. From a scientific perspective, archaeologists believe that the Saobao Stone Pillars belong to the "Beinan Culture" relics of the late Neolithic age based on artifacts unearthed nearby. The Huadong Valley Scenic Area Administration has constructed a base approximately 72 meters long and wide around these two stone pillars, which today is known as the Saobao Stone Pillars in Ruisi Township. The Saobao Stone Pillars face the Hongye River Valley, and due to the elevated terrain, they offer a broad view of the Xiuguluan River gorge and the mountains on the opposite bank, creating a beautiful landscape. With the renovations by the Huadong Valley Scenic Area Administration, this place has become a great spot for tourists to stop and relax.
