Tonghou Creek Introduction
Wulai District is famous for its hot springs and mountain cherry blossoms. It is also the northernmost indigenous mountainous area in Taiwan, predominantly inhabited by the Atayal people. The name "Wulai" comes from the Atayal language, meaning "water very hot, be careful" (Kiluh-ulay). The Atayal indigenous people of Wulai were referred to as "Quchifan" 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 Hongludi Mountain, flowing northwest to Xiaoyi, where it gathers tributaries from the south, including the Ayu River, and continues to Wulai, where it merges with the Nanshi River. The upper reaches of the Tonghou River have the Tonghou Ancient Trail, which was originally a path created by the Atayal for hunting and migration, marked by a sand dam approximately 4 kilometers along where the river flows through an artificial square, becoming one of the photography community's hidden gems. The Tonghou Ancient Trail extends 17 kilometers and connects to Jiaoxi Township in Yilan County. The Tonghou River flows through a valley, serving as a water source for the Taipei area (Feicui Reservoir). Visitors must apply for vehicle and personnel permits to enter the mountain. The local natural ecosystem is rich and complete, attracting dozens of bird species, making it one of Taiwan's top ten birdwatching spots. It boasts picturesque views that have even been chosen as filming locations for the movie "Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale."
