Shuilian, Niushan Coast Introduction
Shuilyan is located in Shoufeng Township, Hualien County, by the seaside. Surrounded by lush hills, it embraces a wide river valley basin through which the Shuilyan River winds its way. The Shuilyan Wetlands and Niushan Coast resemble a coastal secret paradise. In addition to splashing in the waves, engaging in beach activities, and leisurely fishing, the ecological resources of this coastline are quite rich. The coastal plant forest is an excellent spot for observing the ecological landscape of the East Coast, and activities such as hiking, strolling, birdwatching, and butterfly watching are great options. Wandering through the vast coastal lawns while enjoying the blue sky, white clouds, and sunlight feels like time stands still. The origin of Niushan Huting lies in Niushan, located on the southern beach of Shuilyan. The Amis people call it Huting, which means a pasture with vast grasslands. Niushan features unique terrain, with the most remarkable aspect being the small terraced hills on the southern shore that were once pastures for water buffalo. In spring, the hills are covered with blooming Taiwan lilies, making it a natural habitat for wild lilies. The plant community in Niushan is rich and serves as a microcosm of the East Coast's flora. It was designated as a natural reserve within Taiwan's coastal protection program in 1990. In winter, the beach at Shuilyan Niushan sings—its skin-changing beach in spring and summer, the soft and warm sand invites barefoot strolling, with the gentle sea breeze creating a paradise akin to "Cape Paradise." When the northeast monsoon arrives, the long beach sways as the fine sand transforms into pebbles of various colors, neatly arranged along the shore. The waves roll in, pushing the pebbles up the beach; when the waves recede, they roll down the slope of the beach, producing sounds of varying pitches as they tumble. Locals say that the beach at Shuilyan Niushan sings in winter. Leaving your heart on the coastline—there are also wooden cabins providing simple accommodations and camping options at Niushan. Lying under the starry sky, with stars etched in your eyes, and listening to the sound of the tides as you fall asleep, one might accidentally leave their heart along the coastline.
