Monkey Bridge at Houtong Introduction
Located in the Hushan Village of Nantou City, the Monkey Explore Well Recreational Area is a famous spot in the Bagua Mountain Scenic Area. The valley's terrain resembles a well, and in front of the valley stands a small peak that looks like a monkey crouching and gazing into the well below, hence the name - Monkey Explore Well. The Bagua Mountain Range spans Nantou and Changhua, with two hiking trails above: one connects to a viewing pavilion in the tea garden, and the other leads to the observation deck at Monkey Explore Well. Originally separated by a valley, these two locations are now connected by the Sky Bridge, which not only provides convenience but also serves as a major highlight of the recreational area. The park features beautiful garden pathways and corridor landscaping, and at the end of the area stands an observation tower offering distant views of the beautiful Changhua Plain. Inside the tower is a well, allowing visitors to experience the sensation of a monkey exploring a well. The Sky Bridge spans the valley of Monkey Explore Well and is the longest sky ladder in Taiwan, as well as the first ladder suspension bridge in the country, measuring 204 meters in length and consisting of 265 steps, with a height difference of 5.65 meters at both ends. The bridge can accommodate up to 150 people, providing excellent views of the Changhua Plain. On clear days, one can also see the Xiluo Bridge and the mouth of the Zhuoshui River, presenting a breathtaking view. As the sun sets, the Sky Bridge transforms with LED lights that automatically illuminate, appearing from a distance like a smile hanging over the dim mountains, lending it the nickname "Smiling Ladder." On the other side of the suspension bridge, there is a viewing platform that, although not positioned at a high point, still serves as an excellent spot for sunset viewing. The Monkey Explore Well Recreational Area is also affectionately known as "Sunset Valley." If you happen to be visiting as the sun sets, it is worth finding a good spot to pause and admire the golden scenery cast by the fading sunlight. In addition to its famous characteristic sky ladder attracting crowds, the recreational area also includes parking lots and a visitor service center, making travel to this destination even more convenient.
