Siyuan Intersection Introduction
Siyuan Ya Kou, formerly known as "Piayan South Saddle," is an important historical migration route for the Tayan (Tayal) people, located at the saddle point where the Central Mountain Range intersects with the Nanhuda Mountain and Xueshan Mountain ranges. At that time, the Tayan people passed through this saddle to enter what is now Yilan County, establishing a settlement in the Lanyang River valley called "Piayan South," which is today's Nanshan Village. The saddle point of Siyuan Ya Kou was named "Piayan South Saddle" during the Japanese colonial period. During clear days, one can overlook the Lanyang valley, and in winter, enjoy the cloud scenery of Nanhuda Mountain, with a high chance of snowfall at Siyuan Ya Kou; every spring afternoon, one can witness the spectacular sea of clouds, an unforgettable sight. Siyuan Ya Kou sits at an altitude of about 1,948 meters and is easily shrouded in fog during the spring season, which can affect driving conditions. Visitors seeking to enjoy the sea of clouds should take special care. The term "Ya Kou" refers to a meeting place of two mountains, while "Siyuan" means "to think of the source" in the context of drinking water, which is how the name Siyuan Ya Kou was derived. In spring and summer, the area is adorned with blooming flowers, making it the most suitable season for visits, while in autumn and winter, fallen leaves scatter, and snow may also fall if there is sufficient moisture. The forest here belongs to the warm temperate zone, with red cedar and hinoki growing in the upper areas, while other regions host species like fragrant cypress, black-heart wood, cinnamon camphor, yellow-leaf, red alder, and Taiwanese fir. Additionally, the area supports various animal and fern species, making it a biodiversity treasure trove.
