Encompassing part of the Central Mountain Range, Shihzih is a rugged township and home to Taiwan’s Indigenous Paiwan people. Originally known as Tjakuvukuvulj, it’s the largest township in Pingtung County and an important production area for mangoes and watermelons. Shihzih Township’s mountainous terrain is traversed by hiking trails that lead to lookout points and cascading falls.
Things to do in Shihzih Township
In the village of Fenglin is the Shizi Township Cultural Relics Exhibition Hall where you can immerse yourself in the local Paiwan culture. Admire the traditional slate houses decorated with totem carvings and snakes before browsing the artwork made from centuries-old beech wood. You can also learn about the songs of Paiwan folk singer Cai Meiyun and see beautifully embroidered traditional costumes.
Want to stretch your legs? Follow one of the hiking trails that wind through Shuangliu Forest Recreation Area, which surrounds the rushing Fenggang River and the 20-metre-high Shuangliu Waterfall. Stone chairs and picnic pavilions are dotted throughout the dense forest while a variety of butterflies call the area “home”. Sweeping views across the Pacific Ocean and the Taiwan Strait are on offer from the 650-metre-high summit of Maozi Mountain.
Another cascade not to miss is Kayoufeng Falls, which tumbles 40 metres over an impressive cliff. It can be reached along a short, uphill trail that leads to a viewing area before descending to the pool at the waterfall’s base. Kayoufeng Falls is a popular stop on the drive between Kaohsiung and Kenting National Park, with a swim here welcome on hot, humid days.
Getting around Shihzih Township
Shihzih Township is just under two hours’ drive from Kaohsiung City and Kaohsiung International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. Buses travel throughout Shihzih Township while renting a car gives you greater freedom to explore the region.