Danaigu Valley Stream is located in the Shanshu Village, Alishan Township, Chiayi County. It is an important water catchment area of the upstream Zengwen River and is well-known for its "bitter flower" fish, also known as the Taiwanese goosefish. However, due to the poisoning and electrofishing activities by outsiders in the past, the stream's ecosystem was severely damaged, and the villagers' drinking water safety was affected.
In order to protect this precious natural resource, the former township head, Gao Zhengsheng, initiated a conservation plan in 1985. The villagers contributed their original fishing grounds, which were owned by different clans, to establish the "Stream Conservation Association."
The conservation plan started in 1985 with a series of negotiations and planning. In 1989, the "Conservation Team" and "River Protection Committee" were formally established. Villagers took the initiative to patrol and prevent illegal fishing and strengthen river pollution prevention.
After years of effort, the stream became clear again, and fish populations reappeared, with the ecosystem gradually recovering. In 1992, Shanshu Village received the "National Natural Ecology Conservation Model Award" from the Council of Agriculture. In July 1994, the "Shanshu Community Development Association" was established. In 1995, the "Danaigu Natural Ecology Park" was opened to the public. In 2002, it won the "Presidential Cultural Award" for its conservation achievements.
Today, the "Danaigu Natural Ecology Park" has become a new tourist attraction in the Alishan area. The success of ecological conservation has also boosted the local agriculture and tourism industries. Recently, Danaigu Valley introduced Taiwan's only "water restaurant," offering visitors a new dining experience. Guests can enjoy Zou tribe-style cuisine by the clear stream while surrounded by the beautiful scenery.
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons of March, April, September, and October, when the water level is moderate and the weather is pleasant. Activities include bamboo cup DIY, Zou tribe cultural tours, fish observation, and Zou tribe music and dance performances, allowing visitors to deeply experience the tribe's culture and natural ecology.
Please note that the path to the water restaurant is quite rugged and takes about 10 minutes to walk. Visitors are advised to assess their physical condition before heading out. Additionally, for safety reasons, visitors must wear life jackets during meals and follow the staff's instructions. If the weather is bad, a backup plan will be activated, and indoor meals and other activities will be arranged.