Shanlin Yuemei Ecological Park is a constructed wetland restoration area along the Nantzihsien River (Qishan River), planted with lotus and water caltrop to attract herons and other birds; it sits beside permanent housing communities such as Sunshine Xiaolin, rebuilt after Typhoon Morakot in 2009, where natural ecology and Indigenous rebuilding history intertwine.
The Yuemei Farm area in Shanlin District was one of the reconstruction sites for Xiaolin Village after Typhoon Morakot (August 2009). The 'Sunshine Xiaolin' permanent housing community (also known as Xiaolin Village II), built by the Red Cross Society of the Republic of China, broke ground on January 15, 2011 and was completed and occupied by December 24, 2011; architect Li Fu-feng designed the settlement to echo the old Xiaolin village's street layout along the Nantzihsien River.
Highlights of Shanlin Yuemei Ecological Park
Shanlin District sits in the middle reaches of Qishan River (Nantzihsien River), with flat terrain and good agricultural conditions. Yuemei Ecological Park uses a constructed wetland system to restore aquatic plants, cultivating lotus, water caltrop, water lettuce, and other aquatic species. The wetland environment attracts herons and some migratory birds. The overall design balances agricultural demonstration with ecological education, featuring interpretive trails and agricultural activity facilities.
Shanlin District was heavily devastated by Typhoon Morakot in August 2009, and many Indigenous residents from affected villages relocated to permanent lowland housing to rebuild their lives. The Yuemei neighborhood is near these rebuilt Indigenous communities. When visiting the park, you can sense the community's efforts to balance natural environment restoration with the continuation of ethnic culture. Qishan River offers fishing and water-play experiences; the riverside environment is tranquil.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- From Kaohsiung city center, take Provincial Highway 29 toward Shanlin — about 1 hour by car. Public transport options are limited; driving is recommended.
- Yuemei Ecological Park has no fixed admission fee. For agricultural experience activities, check announcements from the Shanlin District Office or the park's official channels.
- During flood season the Qishan River water level may rise; check safety notices before water activities.
Nearby Connections
- Qishan Old Street is about 20 minutes from Shanlin and can be combined with Qishan's banana culture and street snacks to complete a mountain-town half-day trip.
- Neighboring Jianshan Qimei Tribe (Alishan area) can be added for an exploration of Tsou and Bunun Indigenous cultures — plan a full day for this extension.
Source: Shanlin District Office ecological park information and Kaohsiung City Government records related to post-Morakot reconstruction. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Shanlin Yuemei Ecological Park connected to Typhoon Morakot?
The park is next to the Sunshine Xiaolin permanent housing community, built after Typhoon Morakot to rehouse Xiaolin Village residents, completed in 2011.
When is the best time to see the lotus?
Lotus blooms roughly June to August, with flowers standing most upright in the morning — ideal for photos.
Is there an admission fee?
Yuemei Ecological Park has no fixed admission fee; check separately whether agricultural activities are open.
How do you get to Shanlin Yuemei Ecological Park?
Driving via Provincial Highway 29 toward Shanlin from central Kaohsiung takes about 1 hour.
Sources
- 莫拉克十年系列報導－我眼所見即是天地：重建記憶中的小林村、杉林社區 | 我們的島 — 日光小林永久屋動工/落成年份、設計者