Shuilien Cave Introduction
Shuilian Cave Trail is located next to the Shishan Visitor Center. The trail is short and gentle, offering charming scenery that is perfect for all ages to enjoy the beauty of the mountains and forests. Upon entering the Shuilian Cave Trail, it feels like stepping into a different world, filled with the sounds of insects and birds, and lush greenery that contrasts with the road next to it. As you walk down the steps, a large cave comes into view, which is the largest natural cave in Shishan - Shuilian Cave. The cave gets its name from the spring water flowing down from the rock wall above, resembling a curtain of water at the cave entrance. Inside Shuilian Cave lies a century-old temple, Fan Yin Temple. In 1902, Master Wei Kai discovered Shuilian Cave and built a temple there, primarily dedicated to the worship of Buddha Shakyamuni. Due to the nearby sound of flowing water, which echoes in the temple like a mystical chant, it is named Fan Yin Temple. It is the northernmost temple among the many temples in Shishan, with the lowest elevation, and it is also the only temple not built in the traditional temple architecture style. On the other side of the Shuilian Cave railing, you can see schools of Huang He fish and Taiwan stone fish swimming in the clear pebble creek, along with dragonflies and birds inhabiting the area, making it a true paradise. Just a short trip can offer such a rich feast for the body, mind, and spirit. It would be a great idea to plan a leisurely visit to Shishan, including the surrounding Shuilian Bridge Trail and Tengping Ancient Trail.
