Shihshan Scenic Area Introduction
Shih Pa Lo Han Mountain, located along Provincial Highway 27甲 in the Liuqiu District, stands beside the Laonong River. It is composed of more than 40 upright conical peaks, resembling the eighteen arhats standing by the roadside. The spectacular and unique scenery has earned it the nickname "Little Guilin of Taiwan," making it the most beautiful landmark in Liuqiu. The best viewpoint of Shih Pa Lo Han Mountain can be accessed by crossing the Laonong River from the Xinwei Forest Park along Provincial Highway 28, then enjoying the view from Provincial Highway 27 on the eastern bank of the river. With the flowing waters of Laonong River as a backdrop, the stunning landscape of mountains and rivers reflecting each other is fully visible. It is recommended to capture the scenery around 3 or 4 AM when the sky is not yet fully bright, as the mist in the air carries a soft morning light, with shimmering reflections on the river surface, occasionally accompanied by mountain mists, creating a breathtakingly varied scene. Due to the shape of the mountains resembling flames, Shih Pa Lo Han Mountain is also known as "Liouguei Flame Mountain," alongside Miao Li's San Yi Flame Mountain and Nantou's Caotun Jiujiu Peak, forming Taiwan's three major flame mountains. The geology is primarily composed of Liuqiu conglomerate, which has formed over millions of years, resulting in unique landforms such as cliffs, U-shaped valleys, gorges, and meanders. These features showcase geological processes such as orogeny, erosion, and sedimentation, making it a natural geographical classroom. To protect this special landscape, the "Shih Pa Lo Han Mountain Nature Reserve" has been established. Within the reserve, the canyons of Hong Shui River and Zhu Jiao River boast dense forests and clear streams, serving as a habitat for many butterfly species, making it one of the main spots for butterfly watching. Additionally, it is said that Shih Pa Lo Han Mountain is a guardian deity of wealth for the residents of Liuqiu, and people believe that diligent work in Liuqiu can lead to the accumulation of wealth.
