Hualien people's secret wonderland: a natural air-conditioned SPA in the forest
Have you heard of the "Emerald Valley" in Hualien?
This is not a paradise, nor is it an artificial landscape, but a natural waterfall and valley hidden in the mountains and forests, as clear as emerald.
There are no commercial facilities, no tickets, and even no obvious tourist signs, but because of this, the purest natural appearance is preserved.
💧 What is "Emerald Valley"?
Emerald Valley is actually a valley in a tributary of the Liwu River. It is named because the stream water is clear and the color is blue and green.
The most famous attraction is the "Water Curtain Waterfall" surrounded by green forests and abundant water all year round.
The waterfall cascades down from the cliff, like a transparent water curtain hanging on the mountain wall. When passing behind the waterfall, it is like walking into a secret forest path. No wonder some travelers describe this place as "like a real version of Hayao Miyazaki's world".
🧭 How to get there? Transportation and trail description
Starting from Hualien City, it takes about 30 to 40 minutes to drive to Tongmen Village, Xiulin Township, and then enter the industrial road, and set the navigation to "Emerald Valley Water Curtain Waterfall Trailhead".
🚶♀️ The trail takes about 40 to 50 minutes to go back and forth. Although the journey is not long, some sections require wading and rock climbing. It is recommended to wear non-slip wading shoes, carry hiking poles and gloves.
✅ Along the way, you will pass by stream rocks, rope climbing areas and natural stream pools. Children are not recommended to go alone, and adults also need to pay attention to safety.
📸 Recommended photo highlights:
✔ The main view of the Water Curtain Waterfall (it is recommended to wear clothes with contrasting colors to make the picture more layered)
✔ Take a back view photo of "people walking through the water curtain" from behind the waterfall
✔ Reflection photo of the valley pool water
✔ Blue-green stream + stone stairs, super suitable for negative filter
✔ The feeling of a forest tunnel with light shining through the tree gaps
🌬 In addition to taking photos, you can also heal your body and mind here
Visit in summer, the moment you stand under the waterfall, you will instantly understand what "natural air conditioning" means.
The sound of water splashing, the temperature of the cool breeze, and the sound of the stream and the chirping of insects and birds in your ears are a feeling of being completely disconnected from the world.
This is not just a waterfall, but more like a deep breathing exercise given to humans by nature.
🔖 Reminder: Safety and protecting nature are equally important!
•Be sure to travel with a companion and avoid venturing in alone
•Remember to take away the trash to maintain this clean secret place
•If it rains or typhoons in the near future, please avoid going there to prevent the river from flooding
👉🏻If you are not familiar with the valley environment, you may consider finding a local guide to accompany you for safety
📍 Itinerary suggestions:
✔ Visit Emerald Valley in the morning, and arrange a short trail in Taroko National Park (such as Shakadang and Baiyang Trail) in the afternoon
✔ On the way back, you can go to Shoufeng and Tongmen Tribe in Hualien to explore the aboriginal culture and wild river food
✔ If you like photography, it will be amazing to take pictures of the water curtain reflected by light and shadow at dusk!
If you are also looking for "a different Hualien", please include this place in your private list. This is a journey of dialogue with nature, a small adventure to return to your own breathing rhythm.
#5月好去处2025