Qingshui Cliff

清水斷崖

Cliffs more than 1,000 metres high stretch for 21 kilometres along the Su-Hua Highway and plunge straight into the Pacific. The layered blue water is one of Taiwan's most dramatic coastal views.

Qingshui Cliff lies on the Su-Hua Highway (Provincial Highway 9) in Xiulin Township, Hualien County. It stretches about 21 kilometres between Heren and Chongde. Qingshui Mountain drops almost vertically into the Pacific. Its highest point is 2,408 metres above sea level, with a drop of over one kilometre. The highway is cut into the cliff face halfway up, and the stretch is one of the Eight Scenic Views of Taiwan and the most thrilling section of the island's coastal highway. Because the depth of the water changes sharply, on sunny days the sea shows layers from emerald green to sapphire blue, in striking contrast with the grey-white marble cliffs. There are three main viewpoints: Huide Scenic Trail, a viewing path built on the old alignment of the highway, with views over the whole cliff, a car park and toilets; the parking area at the Chongde Tunnel entrance, from which you can walk to the pebble beach and look up at the cliffs; and the Heren viewing platform. In recent years, many visitors have gone kayaking or paddle boarding at dawn on Chongde Beach to look back at the cliffs and the sunrise from the sea, for about NT$1,200 to 1,800 per person. Entry is free. Tips: from Taroko's entrance, it is about 20 minutes north by car. Morning light is best for photos, and a stop of 30 to 60 minutes is enough. If you drive south from Yilan on the Su-Hua Highway, you will pass it naturally. Getting there: there is no regular bus, so you need a chartered car, your own car, or a Taroko day tour. It is about 40 minutes' drive from Hualien city. Notes: parking at the viewpoints is limited. Waves at the beach are strong, so do not swim. The Su-Hua Highway may be closed after typhoons and heavy rain. Chongde Beach is pebbly, so wear non-slip shoes.

Qingshui Cliff

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