Shuilian, Niushan Coast Introduction
Shui Lien is located in Shou Feng Township, Hualien County, embraced by lush hills surrounding a wide river valley basin. The Shui Lien River meanders through, and along the small path by the roadside, the Shui Lien Wetlands and Niu Shan Coast resemble a secret seaside paradise. In addition to wading, engaging in beach activities, and leisurely fishing, the ecological resources of this coast are quite rich. The coastal plant community is an excellent spot for observing the ecological features of the Eastern Coast, making hiking, strolling, bird watching, and butterfly observing great choices. Wandering on the expansive coastal lawn, one can feel the blue sky, white clouds, and sunshine, as if time stands still. The origin of Niu Shan Hu Ting is located on the southern beach of Shui Lien, where the Amis people call it Huting, meaning a pasture of vast grassland. Niu Shan has a unique terrain, with the most peculiar feature being the small terraces that resemble rice paddies on the southern shore, which was once a pasture area for water buffalo. In spring, Taiwan lilies bloom across the hillsides, making it a native habitat for wild lilies. The flora of Niu Shan is diverse, almost a microcosm of the plant community along the eastern coast. In 1990, it was designated as a natural reserve under Taiwan's coastal protection plan. In winter, the beach at Shui Lien Niu Shan sings - the skin-changing beach in spring and summer, where the sand is soft and warm. Walking barefoot on the beach, with the sea breeze gently blowing, it feels like being in a paradise at the tip of the sea, enjoying leisurely freedom. When the northeast monsoon arrives, the long beach experiences several gusts, transforming the fine sand into variously sized colorful pebbles, arranged in an orderly fashion on the beach. With the crashing waves, the pebbles are pushed towards the shore, and as the waves recede, they roll down along the slope of the beach, producing sounds of varying frequencies. Locals say that the beach at Shui Lien Niu Shan sings in winter. Leaving your heart on the coastline - Starlight Camping at Niu Shan also offers small wooden cabins for simple accommodations, as well as camping options. Lying under the starry sky, with starlight etched in your eyes, listening to the sound of the tide as you fall asleep, one may accidentally leave their heart along the coastline.
