Maopitou

Looking at a map of Taiwan, we can clearly see that its southern-most tip is a large peninsula which juts out into the Bashi Channel. At closer investigation two special places are revealed. One is Oluanpi, a national park; another is the small Maobitou peninsula.

Situated across from a rural community, far from the hustle-and-bustle of the big cities, a very exotic tropical paradise overlooks the ocean: dark blue water for as far as the eye can see. A light blue sky and golden sand reflect the glimmer of the setting sun, a round ball of crimson hovering over the horizon. The shimmering sea waves, one after another, pound against the coral reefs and produce a fine ocean mist and sprays of white foam.

A very tiny peninsula tipped by three boulders juts into the ocean; from a distance, Maobitou resembles a squatting cat. This and other 'sculpture' has been assembled for us as the result of nature's handiwork over 10's of millions of years.

Because of the area's warm climate, visitors come all year 'round to experience the beautiful, clear ocean waters—to open their eyes and gaze afar at nothing and, yet, at everything. Adults romp playfully in the sand like children discovering the sea for the first time; fresh, invigorating sea breezes dance around them; a symphony of water splashes about, lapping at the beach. Enjoy it while you can—you can't take it with you!

Departing, as we eventually must, already knowing we will regret our decision to return to the 'real' world, we come to the South Sea Caves. At the entrance is a rock called 'drum rock' by local inhabitants; it produces boom-booming sounds when struck.

Once inside a dimly lit cavern, we can see among swirls of incense smoke local people praying to Buddhist spirits, asking for protection for the fishermen. These villagers, if asked, will surely tell you an interesting legend about the drum rock. About 300 years ago when Holland's navy was active in the area, only three sailors of an entire crew survived a shipwreck. They were cast ashore and took refuge within this cave. However, they died of exposure and starvation. Later, villagers discovered their bodies and carried them outside. They placed them under a stone slab, and then lit incense and prayed to the spirits to assist the sailors. This stone slab was to become the legendary drum rock.

Come! Come and see for yourself the wonders of this part of Taiwan. With the opening of access roads and a parking lot in 1974, the area is now accessible by every means of transportation. So there's no excuse to stay away.

[Picture Caption]

Maopitou—a beautiful group of natural sculpture composed of coral reefs. Created by the pounding of the waves, the 'architecture' at Maopitou has become a well-known tourist attraction.

Maopitou—a beautiful group of natural sculpture composed of coral reefs. Created by the pounding of the waves, the 'architecture' at Maopitou has become a well-known tourist attraction.

Maopitou—a beautiful group of natural sculpture composed of coral reefs. Created by the pounding of the waves, the 'architecture' at Maopitou has become a well-known tourist attraction.

Maopitou—a beautiful group of natural sculpture composed of coral reefs. Created by the pounding of the waves, the 'architecture' at Maopitou has become a well-known tourist attraction.