Datong Township is located in the southwestern corner of Yilan County, Taiwan. It is a mountainous township rich in indigenous culture and magnificent forest landscapes. In the Atayal language, it is known as Minnao or Mnibu. Historically, it was referred to as "Miennao," "Zhuoshui Township," and "Taiping Township." Covering an area of approximately 657 square kilometers, Datong is the second-largest administrative district in Yilan County by area, and the least populated township, with around 6,000 residents.
The Atayal people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous groups, form the majority of the population in Datong. The Atayal language is still widely spoken locally, preserving a wealth of traditional culture and linguistic heritage. Administratively, Datong Township is divided into 10 villages, including Lunpi, Songluo, Yingshi, Fuxing, Taiping, Moan, Siji, Nanshan, and Hanxi. Most of these villages are situated along the Lanyang River, except for Hanxi Village, which lies outside the river’s watershed.
Datong Township boasts abundant and pristine mountain forests, making it one of Yilan’s top eco-tourism destinations. Notable attractions include:
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Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area: Featuring a historic logging industry, rich forest ecosystems, forest railways, and misty mountain scenery, it is a beloved summer retreat for many visitors.
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Jioujhihze Hot Springs: Located at the foot of Taipingshan, this geothermal area is a popular destination for hot spring enthusiasts seeking relaxation.
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Qingshui Geothermal Area: Known for its steaming vents and open-air egg-boiling pools, it is an ideal spot for family and outdoor experiences.
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Mingchi Forest Recreation Area: With alpine lakes and dense forests, it is known as “the Little Switzerland of northern Taiwan.”
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Siyuan Pass: A high-altitude mountain pass leading to Lishan in Taichung, offering vast vistas and a perfect spot for cloud watching and sunrise views.
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Yingshi Lodge and Qilan Mountain Area: These areas are rich in biodiversity and hiking trails, ideal for adventurers and nature lovers.
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Cuifeng Lake and Songluo Lake: Surrounded by alpine trails and forested terrain, these are hidden gems perfect for advanced hikers and photographers.
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Nanhu North Peak and Hanxi Suspension Bridge: Nanhu North Peak is one of Taiwan’s renowned "Hundred Peaks" for mountaineering, while the Hanxi Suspension Bridge is a famous local landmark known for its stunning scenery and impressive structure.
Overall, Datong Township offers a unique blend of indigenous culture, natural beauty, and hot spring resources. It is not only an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility in the mountains but also a popular choice for travelers looking for rich ecological and cultural experiences.
