Dongshan Township, formerly known as “Donggua Mountain,” is located in central Yilan County, Taiwan, at the southeastern edge of the Yilan Plain and the starting point of the northeastern Central Mountain Range. It borders Sanxing Township and Luodong Township to the north, a small section with Wujie Township to the northeast, Su’ao Township to the southeast, and both Nan’ao Township and Datong Township to the south and southwest. With a population of about 53,000, it is the third most populous township in Yilan County and the fifth most populous township in Taiwan.
The terrain of Dongshan is diverse, with some low-lying areas that often become temporary “lakes” in communities such as Wuyuan, Zhenzhu, and Bucheng during heavy rains or typhoons.
Dongshan offers a wide variety of tourism resources, blending natural ecology, agricultural experiences, and local culture, making it one of the most distinctive townships in Yilan. Among its natural attractions is the “Dongshan River Ecoark,” located in the mid- to upper reaches of the Dongshan River. This green space combines aquatic landscapes with wetland ecology, making it a popular spot for riverside sightseeing, family recreation, and eco-tourism. Cycling along the lakeside or strolling its trails provides an ideal way to experience Dongshan’s slow-paced lifestyle.
Another famous scenic site is the Meihua Lake Scenic Area, with winding trails surrounding the lake and agricultural zones nearby, forming a leisure space that merges tourism and farming. In the mountainous areas, the Xinliao and Jiuliao Waterfalls provide opportunities for hiking and forest exploration.
Dongshan is also known for its diverse leisure farming. The Zhongshan Leisure Agricultural Area is a prime example, offering farming and livestock experiences, and it even preserves the ox-themed lantern from the 2009 Taiwan Lantern Festival. The Dajin Leisure Agricultural Area is well known for producing various candied fruits, where visitors can sample authentic local flavors.
In terms of culture and history, Dongshan has rich religious traditions and historical sites. Jin Xing Temple, built during the Guangxu reign of the Qing dynasty, is a major religious center dedicated to the deity Gu Gong San Wang. Dongshan is also home to the Sanqing Temple, the national Taoist headquarters, which attracts large numbers of pilgrims each year. Other important temples include the Caohu Yuzun Temple, Yongfu Temple, and numerous Tudigong (Earth God) shrines, all serving as centers of local faith.
Tourist attraction
