Eighteen Arhat Mountain Scenic Area Introduction
Shih-Po Mountain is located on Taiwan Highway 27甲 in Liouguei District, next to the Laonong River. It consists of over 40 upright conical peaks, resembling the stance of the Eighteen Arhats by the roadside, creating a spectacular and unique landscape that evokes the picturesque scenery of Guilin, earning it the nickname "Little Guilin of Taiwan." It is the most beautiful landmark in Liouguei. The best angle to appreciate Shih-Po Mountain is to cross the Laonong River toward the east via the New Wei Forest Park on Taiwan Highway 28, then look out from the east bank of the Laonong River on Taiwan Highway 27. Against the backdrop of the gently flowing Laonong River, the stunning reflection of the mountains merges beautifully with the waters. It is recommended to capture the scenery around 3 or 4 AM when the sky is not fully bright. The mist in the air carries a subtle sunlight, creating shimmering reflections on the water's surface while occasionally accompanied by mountain mist, offering ever-changing views. Due to its flame-like contours, Shih-Po Mountain is also known as "Liouguei Flame Mountain," ranking alongside Miaoli's Sanyi Flame Mountain and Nantou's Jiu-Jiu Peak as the three major flame mountains in Taiwan. The geology is primarily composed of Liouguei gravel rock, having formed a unique terrain over millions of years, showcasing steep cliffs, U-shaped valleys, gorges, and meandering streams, revealing geological processes such as mountain-building, erosion, and sedimentation, making it a natural geography classroom. To protect this special landscape, the "Shih-Po Mountain Nature Reserve" has been established. Within the scenic area, the Red Water River and Zhuqiao River valleys are lush with trees and crystal-clear streams, serving as a primary habitat for various butterfly species. Furthermore, it is said that Shih-Po Mountain is the guardian deity of the wealth of the Liouguei residents, and people believe that diligent work in Liouguei can lead to the accumulation of wealth.
