Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area

Dongyanshan is a national forest recreation area in Fuxing District that spans elevations from 650 to 1,212 meters (2,130 to 3,976 feet) and features diverse natural landscapes with numerous hiking trails. The terrain includes different forest types and open spaces distributed across the mountainous topography.

The area contains marine fossils from about 30 million years ago, including preserved shells, sea urchins, and traces of ancient crustaceans. These fossils reveal that this region was once underwater before geological activity shaped Taiwan into its current form.

The forest serves as an educational center where visitors and local communities learn about environmental protection and geological formations through guided programs.

The area is accessible on foot with well-marked trails of varying difficulty for different fitness levels. It is advisable to bring sturdy footwear and water, as some sections can be steep and higher paths offer little shade from the sun.

The rocks and soil layers display distinct patterns carved by wind and water erosion, shaped like natural artwork. These erosion patterns are especially visible on steep slopes, where water has carved deep channels and grooves into the stone over millions of years.