Shuilian, Niushan Coast Introduction
Shuilyan is located in the coastal area of Shoufeng Township, Hualien County, surrounded by lush hills embracing a wide river valley basin. The Shuilyan Creek meanders through this area, and the coastal wetlands at Niushan resemble a seaside secret paradise. In addition to wading in the waves, engaging in beach activities, and leisurely fishing, this coastline is also abundant in ecological resources. The coastal plant community is a great spot to observe the ecological appearance of the East Coast. Hiking, walking, birdwatching, and butterfly watching are all excellent options, allowing visitors to bask in the broad coastal lawns under the blue sky, white clouds, and sunshine, as time seems to stand still. The origin of the name Niushan Huting lies at the southern beach of Shuilyan's Niushan (Cow Mountain). It is called Huting (呼庭) by the Amis people, which means "pasture of wide grassland." Niushan features a unique topography, most notably the small terraced hills on the southern coast that were once a pasture for water buffalo. In spring, the slope is adorned with blooming Taiwan lilies, making it a native habitat for wild lilies. The plant community on Niushan is rich, almost a microcosm of the coastal flora of eastern Taiwan, and it was included in Taiwan's coastal protection area plan as a nature reserve in 1990. In winter, the beach at Shuilyan Niushan is said to "sing." During spring and summer, the beach is fine and warm, ideal for barefoot walks along the shore as the sea breeze gently blows, making one feel like they are in "Paradise at Cape." When the northeast monsoon arrives, the long beach witnesses the wind carrying the fine sand, transforming it into variously sized colorful pebbles arranged in order on the beach. As the waves roll in, the pebbles are pushed ashore; when the waves recede, they roll down the slope of the beach, producing different frequencies of sound. Locals say that the beach at Shuilyan Niushan "sings" in winter. For those wishing to linger on the coastline, there are small cabins available for simple accommodations, and camping is also an option. Lying under the starry sky, with stars in view and the sound of the tide lulling one to sleep, one might inadvertently leave their heart on the coastline.
