Candlestick Islets Introduction
The Candleholder Islets, renowned for the "Eight Scenic Views of Jinshan," rise about 60 meters in height. Originally the end of the Hualien Peninsula, the area experienced a land uplift in earlier years, coupled with intense erosion from the sea, leading to its separation from the peninsula. The uplifted reef, shaped by long-term wave erosion, gradually formed sea caves that pierced through to create a sea cape, resembling a stone arch. Eventually, the top of the arch collapsed, resulting in the exposed reef, known as the sea stone pillars. These pillars are interconnected at the base, splitting into two islands on the water's surface, resembling a pair of candleholders, hence the name "Candleholder Islets." Behind the Candleholder Islets lies a moving love story: it is said that a woman waited by the shore for her husband who went missing at sea, believing he would return one day. However, after waiting in vain, she transformed into a stone to continue her vigil. When her husband finally returned home, he found his wife turned to stone and spent his days weeping by her side, eventually transforming into a stone himself to be with her. Additionally, the Zhongzheng Pavilion at the end of the Shitou Mountain Park Trail offers the best vantage point for photographing the Candleholder Islets and enjoying the sea view. Whether viewed from afar or from above, the expansive landscape of the Jinshan coast is a breathtaking sight.
