Tonghou Stream Introduction
Wulai District is renowned for its hot springs and mountain cherry blossoms. It is also the northernmost indigenous mountainous area in Taiwan, primarily inhabited by the Atayal people. The name "Wulai" is derived from the Atayal language, where "Ulay" means "the water is very hot, be careful" (Kiluh-ulay). The Atayal indigenous people in Wulai were referred to as "Quchifang" during the Qing and Japanese colonial periods. The Tonghou River, located in northern Taiwan, is the largest tributary of the Nanshi River, flowing through the northeastern part of Wulai District in New Taipei City. Its source is at the top of Hongludi Mountain, flowing northwest to Xiaoyi, where it meets the southern tributary Ayu River, and continues to Wulai, eventually merging with the Nanshi River. The upper reaches of the Tonghou River feature the Tonghou Ancient Trail, which was once a path used by the Atayal for hunting and migration. This trail has a notable sand dam located approximately 4 kilometers along the route, where the river flows over artificial blocks, making it one of the hidden gems for photographers. The end of the Tonghou Ancient Trail stretches 17 kilometers and leads to Jiaoxi Township in Yilan County. The Tonghou River, situated in a valley, serves as a water source for the Taipei area (Feitsui Reservoir). Visitors wishing to enter the mountains must obtain vehicle and personnel entry permits. The local natural ecology is rich and intact, attracting dozens of bird species, making it one of the top ten birdwatching sites in Taiwan. It boasts picturesque landscapes that were chosen as filming locations for the movie "Seediq Bale."
