Eighteen Arhats Mountain Scenic Area Introduction
Shihpan Mountain, located on Provincial Highway 27甲 in Liugui District, is situated beside the Laonong River and consists of over 40 upright conical peaks. The mountain's formation resembles eighteen arhats standing by the roadside, creating a magnificent and unique landscape that mirrors the beautiful scenery of Guilin, earning it the nickname "Little Guilin of Taiwan." The most beautiful perspective of Shihpan Mountain can be appreciated by crossing the Laonong River eastward through the Xinwei Forest Park along Provincial Highway 28 and then gazing at it from Provincial Highway 27 on the east bank of the Laonong River. The flowing waters of the Laonong River complement the scenic beauty where mountains and waters reflect and coexist; it is recommended to capture the view around 3 or 4 AM, when the sky is not yet fully bright, with mist in the air reflecting the subtle sunlight, rippling light on the river surface, occasionally accompanied by mountain mists, resulting in ever-changing scenery. Due to the mountain's shape resembling flames, Shihpan Mountain is also known as "Liugui Flame Mountain," and is listed among Taiwan's three major flame mountains, alongside the Flame Mountain in Sanyi, Miaoli, and Jiji Peak in Caotun, Nantou. The geology mainly consists of Liugui conglomerate, with a unique topography formed over millions of years, featuring steep cliffs, U-shaped valleys, canyons, and meanders, showcasing geological processes such as mountain-building, erosion, and sedimentation, making it a natural geography classroom. To protect this special landscape, a "Shihpan Mountain Nature Reserve" has been established. Within the scenic area, the Hongshui Creek and Zhuqiao Creek valleys are densely forested with clear streams, serving as a primary habitat for a variety of butterflies, making it a popular butterfly-watching spot. Additionally, it is said that Shihpan Mountain is the guardian deity of the wealth of Liugui residents, and people believe that hard work in Liugui will accumulate wealth.
