Shimen Recreation Area

Shimen Recreation Area is located in Fengbin Township, Hualien County, north of Shitiping, at the foothills of Daqi Mountain and Maogong Mountain. The name 'Shimen' (Stone Gate) comes from a sea cave on the coast here that resembles a gate. Entering Shimen's first tunnel, from Shimen Cave to the 'Man Can Conquer Nature' monument, the coast features towering cliffs and gurgling streams, somewhat reminiscent of Taroko Gorge. The sea erosion platforms, sea caves, and sea grooves here in Shimen are highly developed, serving as a geological mirror image of Bashiandong. A Shimen Natural Protected Area is currently planned. North of Shitiping, at the foothills of Daqi Mountain and Maogong Mountain, lies Shimen Beach, where a giant cave known as Shimen Cave is found. This natural sea cave is composed of black, erosion-resistant rocks, forming steep and impressive cliffs under long-term sea erosion. The cave has openings on all four sides, and local residents who have lived there for a long time can tell the precise time by the angle of the sunlight entering the cave. Legend has it that in ancient times, a group of Amis people secretly gathered at Shimen, planning to ambush a tribe located at the mouth of the Xiuguluan River. They had prepared glutinous rice cakes for a celebratory feast, but later, these rice cakes turned into stones, forming coastal rocks that resemble rice cakes. In addition to its unique geological landscape, the coast around Shimen Cave is also a popular fishing spot, where locals often come to fish or collect seaweed. Transportation: ● Public Transportation: Take Hualien Bus (Coastal Line via Provincial Highway 11) routes 1127, 1140, or 1145 and alight at Shimen Cave Station. ● By Car: Address: 60 km mark of Provincial Highway 11, Fengbin Township, Hualien County.