In a four-day exploration journey, we delved into the unique geological features of Taiwan's eastern region, focusing on significant geological outcrops and coastal terrains in the Hualien and Taitung areas. Our objective was to comprehend the diverse geological and topographical landscapes of Taiwan, unraveling the genesis and evolution of these multifaceted terrains. On the first day, we visited Tofu Cape and Glass Beach in Nanfang'ao, witnessing the largest neck sand formation in Taiwan. In the afternoon, we proceeded to Chongde Beach, where the renowned Qingshui Cliffs showcased the coastal landforms resulting from faulting. The second day commenced with an exploration of Shimen, observing phenomena such as sea platforms, sea caves, and sea trenches formed by coastal erosion. Later, we arrived at the well-developed coastal erosion site of Shitiping. Climbing the 17-meter-high Single-Faced Mountain, we were treated to a panoramic view of the vast Pacific Ocean. In the afternoon, we examined sea caves originally at sea level, now elevated to the 150-meter-high cliff face, known as the Prehistoric Site of Eight Immortals Caves. On the third day, we began our journey at Xiao Yeliu Coast, observing the intriguing geological phenomena resulting from the alternating deposition of thick sandstone and thin mudstone layers. Proceeding to Liji Badlands, originally sediment at the seafloor, the site was pushed to the surface due to tectonic plate movements, resulting in a unique landscape characterized by extensive rain erosion and devoid of vegetation, forming a terrain filled with rain erosion gullies. We then visited Da Po Elementary School, an exposure of the Chihsingtan Fault, to witness how geologists monitor the activity of the Chihsingtan Fault using various measurement methods. On the fourth day, our destination was Fuchi Bridge, where we observed Miocene mudstone covering Quaternary river terrace gravels. Although the construction constraints limited a close-up observation of Yu Li Bridge, from a distance, we noted the uneven deformation of the guardrails, indicating ongoing uplift at a rate of 2 to 3 centimeters annually. Our final stop was Ruibei Village along one of the tributaries of the Siouguluan River. Walking upstream along the riverbed, we successfully collected our targeted specimens, including blue schist, garnet, and chert, concluding our journey with a perfect finale.

Implemented by College of Science
Date: 2023/11/24-2023/11/27