Aowanda Forest Recreation Area

Aowanda Forest Recreation Area is in southeastern Jenai Township of Nantou County, through which Nouliao, Chinshui, Magu, North Wanda, and South Wanda Creeks all flow. This 2787-hectare area is 1100 to 2600 meters above sea level. Since the mean annual temperature is 19ºC, it is warm in winter and cool in summer. Not only is Aowanda the ideal place for observing the changing autumn hues, but is also makes for an excellent summer resort.

The geology of Wanda Creek, upstream of Choshui River, is mostly composed of slate. The slate debris on the river bed has been washed out by the water, resulting in turbid and gray water. The origin of the name Choshui River (Turbid Gray River), is derived from this process. Observing the convergence of the turbid and clear water at the meeting point of the northern and southern Wanda Creeks is a tremendously meaningful educational opportunity. Due to combined effect of intense orogeny and high levels of geological activity cutting the river beds throughout time, almost everything on the north side of Wanda Creek can be observed from the river platform. The platform area is the most popular place for visitors. There are many waterfalls due to the unique geological conditions, such as the formation of flying falls, twin falls and grouped falls as a result of the erosion of interbedded faults and shale-sand stone. There is as much as 45,000 ions per cubic centimeter, making the forest an excellent forest bath location.