Maolin National Scenic Area

Taoyuan is located at the foot of southern Mount Jade (Yushan) of the Central Mountains. The topography of the area is characterized by many high forested mountains, and includes geographical features such as valleys, precipices, hot springs, and suspension bridges. The area was once home to an aboriginal tribe called Yaer, also known as Jialameng.

Liouguei District is a beautiful valley in middle east Kaohsiung City, on the west bank of Laonong River. It is a land of alluvial soil, and running from south to north, the area is shaped like a long squash. It is rich in natural resources, with mountains and forests occupying 3/5 of the total area.

Maolin District is situated in eastern Kaohsiung City, in an area covered mostly by virgin forest. The Jhuokou River, which originates from the Malishan Creek in the Central Mountains, cuts through the entire region. In addition to the scenic views of nearby peaks in the Central Mountain Range, the Maolin area has many distinctive natural features, including waterfalls, gorges, mountain streams, forests teeming with native wildlife, and active hot springs.

Sandimen Township possesses striking landscapes, verdant mountains and winding rivers, plus the rich culture of the Paiwan and Rukai Tribes. It is the biggest township in the area. The geographical name comes from the Paiwan language – it was known as Sandimen in the Japanese colonial period and officially named Sandimen Township in 1992.

Wutai Township is the highest township in Pingtung County, and the hometown of Rukai aboriginal people. Rukai culture abounds with artifacts, including traditional slate houses and traditional arts, such as knitting and stone carving are practiced. There is a street of art shops for visitors. Wutai also offers waterfalls, quiet valleys, ecological sightseeing, countryside scenery and flower gardens.

Majia Township is the “Majia Zaya Zaya“ of the West Paiwan Tribe. In the Paiwan language, it means ‘inclined slope’. After the restoration of Taiwan in 1945, local tribes were assigned a village to live in. the villages were then renamed: Maka Jhayajha was renamed Majia; Masyulide was renamed Beiye; Wakaba was renamed Liangshan; and Kajhagei Langan was renamed Jiayi. Majia Township now includes Beiye Village, Liangshan Village, Jiayi Village, Paiwan Village, Majia Village, Sanhe Village, and others.