Nestled in the Huadong Valley between Taiwan’s Central and Coastal mountain ranges, Juisui Township is a rural settlement at the confluence of the Xiuguluan and Hongye rivers. It’s largely inhabited by the Hoklo and Hakka people, as well as indigenous Amis.
Things to do in Ruisui Township
History buffs shouldn’t miss a visit to the Saoba Stone Pillars, which are a legacy of the Stone Age-era Beinan culture. The site comprises two stone pillars that rise dramatically on a slope leading down to a deep river valley. It remains a mystery as to how the two stone pillars were transported and erected at the site, as well as their ceremonial or religious use.
South of the town’s centre is the Ruisui Tropic of Cancer Marker, which marks the most northerly circle of latitude at which the sun can be positioned directly overhead. The white, sundial-shaped monument is surrounded by animal statues representing the Chinese tradition of astronomical phenomena: the Green Dragon of the East, the White Tiger of the West, the Red Phoenix of the South and the Black Tortoise of the North.
Nature lovers can explore the Fuyuan National Forest Recreation Area, which has been nicknamed “Butterfly Valley'' due to the abundance of these colourful insects between March and August. Stroll through the majestic camphor forest and boulder-hop along the Fuyuan Stream, which leads into a waterfall-filled gorge.
Getting around Ruisui Township
Juisui Township is a 1.5-hour drive from Hualien County and Hualien Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. Regular trains on the Hualien-Taitung Line stop at the Fuyuan and Ruisui railway stations while buses travel throughout the township. Having your own vehicle will give you greater freedom to explore the region.