Shapodang River

The Shapodang River in Hualien is commonly known as “the source of water” among locals, and the name “Shapodang” in the Tayal language means “an abundance of rainfall.” This wild river is a natural playground for local kids, where the water is clear and the underwater life is vibrant. Nothing beats the sweltering heat like a quick dip in the water, which is why many locals and tourists alike come here to keep themselves cool and active all day long under the Taiwanese sun. It is also a popular destination for a wealth of water activities such as river tracing. The experienced guide will lead the expedition from the source of the river, where participants get to experience a bath under the waterfall, passing through a cave of water curtain, sliding down the natural ride like in a water park, even diving off a platform and plunging into the white water.

The downstream half of the river can be entered without a permit, where the flow of water is smooth enough and almost everyone can swim, soak or float in the waist-deep water. If you want to go a bit further upstream, make sure you apply for the permit at Shuiyuan Police Station. Show them your passport and fill out the application form — it is as simple as that. The number of visitors is not limited, so enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings and all the other offerings of Shapodang River.