Qingshui Cliff (清水斷崖) is a dramatic stretch of sheer sea cliffs running about 21 km along the eastern coast of Hualien County, Taiwan, and is counted among the "Eight Views of Taiwan." Rising almost vertically to roughly 800 m above the Pacific, the marble-and-gneiss cliffs form a striking contrast with the deep blue ocean below. They line the Suhua Highway (Provincial Highway No. 9) and are a highlight of any trip through northern Hualien.
The contrast of the vertical cliffs and the open Pacific seen from the highway viewpoints, especially in the golden light of sunrise and sunset.
The currently open Chongde Rest Area (崇德休憩區) viewing platform, beside the north exit of the Chongde Tunnel, with parking, restrooms and a lookout.
Sunrise sea-kayak and SUP tours launching from Chongde Beach that let you look up at the cliffs from the water (generally seasonal, roughly April to October).
The raw geology of marble and gneiss and the waves breaking at the cliff base, forming a wild, untamed coastline.
Its location right next to Taroko Gorge, making it easy to combine into a northern Hualien day tour.
Good to know
SafetyRockfall and landslide risk is very high after typhoons, heavy rain or earthquakes. Sections were damaged by 2024's Typhoon Kaemi and the April 3 earthquake, so check the latest road and closure status before you go.
RulesThe once-popular Huide Trail is currently closed and the Chongde Trail is only partially open. Do not enter closed old roads or barricaded sections — they are active rockfall danger zones.
SafetySwimming is prohibited: the cliffs drop sharply, tides shift greatly and currents are strong. Do not enter the water without a proper guided tour and safety gear.
SafetySunrise kayak and SUP tours are off-limits to people with heart disease, cardiovascular conditions, asthma or epilepsy, and to pregnant travelers. Confirm that life jackets, an accompanying instructor and insurance are included before booking.
SeasonThere is little shade around the viewpoints, so summer sun exposure is intense — bring a hat, sunscreen or parasol. Near wooded edges, watch out for bites from small biting midges (小黑蚊).
CautionThe Suhua Highway is narrow with many tunnels, so stopping on the shoulder or parking illegally is dangerous and penalized. Kayak-tour and charter-car prices vary widely — confirm the quoted price and whether round-trip pickup and insurance are included, in writing, in advance.
Practical info
Public transport is inconvenient; self-driving, a chartered car or a day tour is easiest. By train, alight at Chongde or Heren station and transfer onward. The viewing platform is free and has parking and convenience stores nearby. Fees, hours, opening status and tour seasons change often with weather and seismic conditions, so verify the latest details just before visiting.
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