Guguan Visitor Center and Entrance Museum Introduction
In the spring of 2021, the Gu Guan Visitor Center was transformed into a local micro-museum to welcome travelers, aiming to serve as the best stopover for visitors preparing to explore the mountainous area of Gu Guan and soak in hot springs. With the Central Cross-Island Highway as the longitude and varying elevations as latitude, visitors can rediscover Gu Guan's history, geography, and ecological resources in a gradual manner. After that, one can head to the Shaliao Trail, where new markers and designs have created a natural guiding area, opening up a sensory journey for travelers entering Gu Guan, leading them into the mountains and waters of the area. B1: Bird Illustrations Most of the common birds in Gu Guan are representative species of Taiwan's mid-low elevation areas, featuring both resident and seasonal migratory species. Because of the proximity to the Dajia River, stream birds can also be spotted. The diverse forest types provide ample food sources and safe, hidden habitats, making winter to spring the best time to visit Gu Guan for birdwatching. Among the echoing bird songs in the mountains, these birds live freely in the forests. B2: Plant Images and Installations Through actual surveys, the rich natural environment of Gu Guan is divided into nine chapters for visual display. The elevation differences in Gu Guan blend shades of scenery; while walking in the mountains, one can see familiar plants as well as anticipate alpine coniferous and broadleaf forests. Common species like rhododendron grow in harsh terrains alongside the towering Taiwanese red pine found in flatter areas, in addition to ground-dwelling mosses and ferns. These are long-standing residents of the Gu Guan region, where the understated native species and the exuberant non-native species create a unique outdoor appearance. There are ample shaded areas under the trees, making it a great choice for conversations, resting, or picnicking. The square also hosts irregular activities, sometimes featuring singing or dance performances. The open-air footbath is one of the highlights of the Gu Guan Visitor Center. Unlike other visitor centers, here, visitors can sit by the pool, take off their shoes, and soak their feet. The "kissing fish" in the pool will nibble at guests’ feet, creating a ticklish sensation. However, be cautious, as sudden movements in the pool may scare the fish away! Accessibility Features: - Accessible restrooms: 2 - Accessible parking spaces: 2 spaces for cars ♿ - Accessible ramps: 4 locations ♿ - Wheelchair rentals: 1 available
