Snake Head Mountain Introduction
Shetou Mountain is located at the 12-kilometer mark of Provincial Highway 132 in Maolin District. It can be seen on the way to Donari Road. The mountain is named for its resemblance to a bamboo viper coiled around the Zhuokou Creek. Shetou Mountain is a typical meander landform and was originally a ring-shaped hill, contrasted by Longtou Mountain on either side. It is regarded as a sacred mountain protecting the local tribespeople and is one of the most famous attractions in the Maolin area. According to legend, a long time ago, a mother snake was foraging with her two young ones when she heard the sound of rushing river water. Fearing it was a sudden mountain rainstorm bringing a flood, she called her young to quickly climb the trees for safety and instructed them to close their eyes and focus on reciting a spell, hoping that her son and daughter would transform into an eagle and a purple butterfly, respectively, to escape the disaster. It is quite an interesting tale. For a full view of Shetou Mountain, visitors can enjoy the sight from the Shetou Mountain Viewing Platform, with a recommended stay of about 15 minutes to leisurely appreciate the unique meandering landscape of Shetou Mountain.
