Huoyanshan (Huoyan Mountain) Nature Reserve

Huoyanshan (Huoyan Mountain) Nature Reserve is located to the north of Da-an River. It is known for its special scenery featuring sharp bare hills, and the Mawei Pine Tree Forest. In 1986, the Council of Agriculture designated the area a nature reserves.

Huoyanshan (Huoyan Mountain) Nature Reserve has an interesting geological history. Its geological structure was formed by dramatic tectonic movements and consists mainly of conglomerate and sandstone layers with very weak cohesion. Natural forces such as wind and rain have eroded these mountains, causing large sections to break off, creating jagged peaks and rock strewn slopes and valleys. The best view of the mountains is from the south; they are especially magnificent at the sunset, when they appear to be on fire. It is from this that they derive their name, Mt. Huoyan, which means fire mountain. Every March and April, Mt. Huoyan serves as a stopover for migratory birds coming from the south. The gray-headedvulture, on its way back to the north from its winter retreat in the Philippines, is a frequent visitor, attracted by the mild climate of Mt. Huoyan.