Shuilian is situated on the coastal area of Shoufeng Township, Hualien County. It is in river valley basin surrounded by verdant hills through which Shuilian Creek flows down along the small path next to the main road. Shuilian wetlands and Niushan coast are like a hidden seaside paradise. In addition to water activities such as treading waves, beach activities, and fishing, this coast is rich in ecological resources. The coastal forests are a great place for observing ecology of the east coast, hiking, strolling, bird watching, and butterfly watching. Wandering on the vast coastal lawn to under the blue sky, clouds, and sunshine, time seems to freeze.
The origin of Niushan Huting
Niushan is located on the beach south of Shuilian. The Amis called it "Huting," meaning pasture with large grasslands. Niushan has a unique landscape, of which the most peculiar is the small leveled hills on the south bank that look like terraces. It was once a pasture area for buffaloes. In spring, blooming Taiwan lilies cover the hills. This place is called the origin of wild lilies. The flora of Niushan is rich, almost a miniature representation of the flora of the East Coast. It was included as a nature conservation zone in the Taiwan Coastal Reserve Plan in 1990.
The singing beach in the winter, Shuilian Niushan—the skin-changing beach
In spring and summer, the beach is soft and gentle. Walking barefoot on the beach, with the sea breeze blowing gently, it would feel like you are in the "Cape Paradise," relaxed and comfortable. When the northeast monsoon arrives, after constant blowing of the wind, the fine sand is replaced by colorful pebbles of varying size, arranged in a certain order on the beach. When the waves come, the pebbles are pushed to the shore; and when the waves recede, the pebbles roll down along the slope of the beach, one by one, with sounds of high and low notes. Locals call this, the singing beach in winter Shuilian Niushan.
Leave your heart on the coastline—Starlight camping
There are also cabins in Niushan for basic accommodation, or you can choose to camp. Lying under the starry sky, with stars in your eyes, and falling asleep listening to the sound of the tide—you might accidentally leave your heart here on the coastline.