 This bicycle path, built in the Mataian community, is the newly-opened lotus viewing location of Guangfu Township, Hualien County. It enjoys a varied landscape, and the cultural presence is also diverse and plentiful. After the bicycle path's starting point, it passes through the narrow, green shaded river embankment path, and then curves, going down a slope, and then passing by a temple and several homes. It has the feeling of a small Aboriginal settlement. Peddling gently, one can also see streams moving through the forest. In front, one lotus field appears after another. More uniquely, many sections of the path join up with the wooden lotus-viewing paths next to the lotus fields. During the early spring, the dried lotus coverings and golden rapeseed flower fields each have their own beauty. In summer, the lotus flowers open. Pavilions that allow visitors to view the lotus leaves, fields, and flowers are situated above the beautiful lotus flower waters.
In the past, the whole Mataian area was the fish farming land of the Ami Mataian Settlement. This is also a wetland with plentiful mountain springs water and underground springs. The water quality is clear and unpolluted, allowing for the breeding of water plants and creatures unique to the wetlands. It also attracts egrets and many other waterfowl to forage or reside in this area. Also viewed here are the Ami ecological fishpond "Palakaw" fishing tool and also a peculiar fishing tool, a bamboo fish-trap. The whole area has been designed to the fullest, and includes wooden footpaths, viewing platforms, a lovers-bridge, pavilions, a woodcarving center, and a traditional dance performance hall, all of which are built from wood. Original lodgings made from natural resources blend with the natural scenery. Whether one is cycling along the green river embankment, or resting in the shade by the lotus ponds, one can experience the unique beauty of Mataian.
The Mataian area possesses a beautiful ecology and Aboriginal culture. Every season brings its own different character, with a variety of recreation activities. This is ideal for friends coming as a group, or for the whole family. |
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Travel Guide |
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The entire route takes about one hour. The path winds between lotus fields and narrow wooden lotus-viewing paths. Along the route, one can enjoy the scenery, camp, have a picnic, go fishing, pick wild flowers, bird-watch by the waters, or hike up the mountain to view the waterfalls. One can experience a wetland ecological journey and an Ami cultural journey.
From December to February, tourists can enjoy the rapeseed flower fields. From March to May, they can enjoy the fireflies. From June to October, they can enjoy the lotuses. During August, the Aborigines celebrate their harvest festival. In the evenings, the allomyrina dithotomus beetle can be observed. From September to December, one can enjoy the East Rift Valley's silver-grass flower seas. |
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Nearby Scenic Spots：
Hualien Sugar Factory, Daxing Waterfalls Memorial Park. |
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Special Products：
pattan palm heart, red sticky rice, arrow bamboo shoots, bird’s nest fern, frozen sugar factory products. |
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