Best things to do in Xiulin

Carved by the Liwu River, Taroko Gorge sits within a national park known for its many marble rock formations. Examine the imposing rocks while driving on the serpentine mountain road, possibly the easiest way to enjoy the beauty of exotic jungles and beaches. Wear quality walking shoes during your treks across this rugged landscape, especially if you go off beaten paths.

Take a drive along Ch'ing-shui Cliff, an imposing oceanside cliff and one of Taiwan's famed natural wonders. The steep, towering cliff drops down into the azure and turquoise waters of the ocean. Follow the trail down to the beach, where you won't be able to swim but simply view the tall cliff from below and take some stunning shots of the scenery.

Visit the beautiful and thought-provoking Eternal Spring Shrine, built in 1958 to commemorate 212 veterans who died during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. Nestled into the side of a mountain, the Tang-dynasty-style shrine also sits just above a natural-spring waterfall. Unfortunately, due to its precarious location, the shrine has been destroyed and rebuilt twice because of landslides. Due to dangerous conditions, the traditional 20-minute route through the mountains to the shrine sometimes closes, as does the longer, more strenuous trail behind the shrine, which takes you up the "sky ladder." You’ll get fantastic views of the shrine and perfect photo opportunities from across the gorge.

A trip to Zhuilu Old Trail allows you to explore wild, mountainous nature far away from the beaten path. First, you’ll need to get a permit from the local authorities, which is best done a couple of days in advance. Also, consider rescheduling your visit during bad weather, as the terrain can get slippery and potentially dangerous. Otherwise, take a tour guide and go hiking along the old trail across the undulating terrain. It can get challenging, but the amazing views of the surrounding nature and Taroko Gorge more than make up for the trouble. Be careful, bring a lot of water, and enjoy the unforgettable feeling when you conquer the trail.

One of the more popular walks within a major national park, Baiyang Trail leads to a splashing waterfall. Part of the trail requires you to enter a tunnel carved into the side of a mountain, so make sure you wear non-slip shoes and carry a flashlight.

Removed from the city crowd, Mukumugi Valley represents a hidden natural gem. If you choose to walk there, your efforts along the mountainsides will be rewarded with sweeping views. The valley's hospitable villagers will gladly offer you some refreshments, while the glistening, transparent river makes the perfect place to jump in and cool off, surrounded by pristine nature.

Following a contour carved by the dramatic cliffs rising up from the Pacific Ocean, Su-Hua Highway provides travelers with a scenic and exciting drive. Making up a 118 km (73.3 mi) section of the Provincial Highway No. 9, which runs north to south down the east of the country, the highway incorporates a 21 km (13 mi) stretch of cliffs called the Chingshui Cliffs, which rise an average of 800 m (2,624.6 ft) above sea level. The route began life as a military footpath used initially by the Chinese in an effort to assert sovereignty over the east coast. It was subsequently widened into a road by the Japanese colonial government, with extensive works done and tunnels and bridges constructed, until it was opened to the public in 1932. Be aware that with falling rocks considered a constant threat, the road is regarded as one of the most dangerous in the world, so take it slowly, and consider abstaining during bad weather.

Have a dripping adventure at Cave of Water Curtain. See the place behind the waterfall, hidden from the outside. In order to get inside, you’ll need to pass through the stream that looks like a curtain. It’s best that you buy a cheap raincoat from the salesmen outside, some plastic bags to secure your gadgets, and then go. Once you get inside, take some time to enjoy the sounds of the water above the ceiling, and the view of the sunlight through the curtain.

The Xiangde Temple (Chinese: 祥德寺; pinyin: Xiángdé Sì) is a temple in Xiulin Township, Hualien County, Taiwan.