52-Jia Wetland is an important wetland in Wujie Township, Yilan County, extending across the borders of Dongshan Township and Su'ao Township; named after roughly 52 jia (a traditional land unit) of land once reclaimed here, it actually covers about 298 hectares and was designated a National Important Wetland by the Ministry of the Interior in 2009. Formed along a low-lying flood-retention stretch of the old Dongshan River channel, the wetland is a key wintering habitat for Black-faced Spoonbills and other migratory birds from roughly October through March, making it a major waterbird observation site in Yilan County.
52-Jia Wetland extends across Wujie, Dongshan, and Su'ao townships, lying west of Liju Old Street in Wujie and south of the Dongshan River; it actually covers about 298 hectares and was designated a National Important Wetland by the Ministry of the Interior in 2009. About 91% of the wetland is privately owned; over 100 bird species have been recorded there over the years, including more than 20 protected species such as the Black-faced Spoonbill, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Osprey, and Greater Painted-snipe.
Highlights of 52-Jia Wetland
The wetland takes its name from its area. The low, flat topography — formed by Lanyang River alluvial deposits — provides ideal wetland conditions. During the southward migration of winter birds, Black-faced Spoonbills, Grey Herons, Egrets, Plovers, and other migratory species winter here or pass through, making it a draw for birdwatchers. The distinctive landscape of interwoven agricultural land and wetland also reflects how the Yilan Plain manages the coexistence of farming and natural habitat.
There is currently no formal paid viewing platform at the wetland. Visitors typically walk or cycle along the farm roads to observe birds; maintain distance from the birds and avoid loud noise that might disturb the flocks. November to February is when Black-faced Spoonbills are most numerous; the hour around dawn and dusk is when waterbirds are most active. Bring binoculars or a telephoto camera — the open wetland terrain makes it difficult to see birds in any detail without optical equipment.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There
- By car: from Yilan City head along Provincial Highway 2 toward Zhuangwei, then follow farm roads into Donggang Village in Zhuangwei Township to reach the wetland perimeter.
- Public transit options are limited; driving is recommended. Bring a map to confirm farm road entry points, as signage around the wetland may be incomplete.
- In winter mornings the ground can be wet; waterproof footwear is advisable. Bring mosquito repellent as well.
Nearby Connections
- Zhuangwei Sand Dune Tourism Service Park is near the coast in Zhuangwei Township, about 5–8 km from the wetland — a natural half-day combination of dunes and wetland.
- Yilan City is about 15–20 km away; a morning at the wetland for birdwatching followed by lunch back in the city is a convenient itinerary.
Source: Ministry of Agriculture ecological conservation zone data and Yilan County Wild Bird Society records. Photos pending Dio's on-location shoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which townships is 52-Jia Wetland located in?
52-Jia Wetland spans Wujie, Dongshan, and Su'ao townships, lying mainly west of Liju Old Street in Wujie, south of the Dongshan River.
How large is 52-Jia Wetland?
Despite its name referencing 52 jia, the wetland actually covers about 298 hectares and was designated a National Important Wetland in 2009.
What protected bird species can be seen at 52-Jia Wetland?
Recorded protected species include the Black-faced Spoonbill, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Osprey, and Greater Painted-snipe, among more than 100 bird species logged over the years.
Sources
- 重要濕地導覽：五十二甲 - 濕地保育資訊網 — 官方濕地位置、面積、國家重要濕地指定年份
- 五結人不會跟你說的私房景點！五十二甲濕地四季必拍主題大公開 - Hi宜蘭新聞 — 地理位置與生態描述