aeeble

After leaving Gangko Village, continue along Provincial Highway 26 to its end. Along the way, you will see many coral reefs and peculiar rock formations. You will finally reach "Sea God's Wonderland - Jiale Shui." Jiale Shui originally named "Jia Luo Shui" is derived from the local pronunciation meaning "water that falls from above." At the end of the scenic trail within the Jiale Shui Scenic Area lies "Shan Hai Pao (Sea and Mountain Falls)." Later, it was renamed Jiale Shui in the spirit of "peace and happiness." Although the Jiale Shui Scenic Area is not within the Kenting National Park, the area is celebrated for its diverse geological features and unique rocky formations, earning it the well-known title of "Sea God's Wonderland." The natural landscape arises entirely from deep-sea sedimentary rock layers, which are distinctively layered, making it a natural geological classroom. In addition, there are striking rock formations sculpted by seawater erosion, attracting visitors to slow their pace and follow the scenic trail for a close examination. The geological landscapes at the Jiale Shui Scenic Area are classified into three major types: "deep-sea rock layers," "sandstone layers," and "rocky coasts." Along the scenic trail, two pavilions serve as resting points for panoramic views. Apart from the "Shan Hai Pao," the majority of geological features can be observed in the early part of the trail, making a complete tour take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Jiale Shui is primarily composed of deep-sea sedimentary rock layers formed millions of years ago. Later, tectonic movements uplifted the layers above sea level. Erosion from seawater and geological forces have sculpted diverse landscapes: Deep-sea rock layers: Jiale Shui is the sole location on the Hengchun Peninsula featuring "rocky coasts." These layers originate from deep-sea continental slope deposits. The Jiale Shui Scenic Area showcases "flame-like and slump structures" as a result. Sedimentary layers: About ten million years ago, underwater currents carried abundant sand to accumulate in layers. Alternating sand layers and mud layers, deposited horizontally over time, formed sandstone layers and shale layers. Over hundreds of thousands of years, tectonic movements compressed and tilted the rock layers, producing "flame-like and slump structures," "ripple marks," and "trace fossils" within the sediment. Erosional formations: After rock layers are exposed above sea level, seawater and marine organisms gradually erode them into a variety of landscapes such as "concretions," "iron staining patterns," "borer dwellings," and "weathering windows." Iron staining patterns: As you walk across the rock surfaces, you will notice beautiful red or reddish-brown stripes. These are primarily due to numerous joints and fissures in the sandstone layers. Groundwater rich in iron flows freely through these gaps. Once oxidized by air, the iron forms rust-colored iron oxide, which seeps into the cracks, creating these iron staining patterns. Weathering windows: Along rocky coasts, you will find numerous small window-like structures that cover entire rock layers. These erosional features are called "weathering windows." Resembling beehives, they are also known as "honeycomb rock." Originally small holes in the rocks, these formations develop further through erosion and weathering by seawater and wind. Slump structures: Slump structures are one of the geological phenomena caused by rock layer distortions. Primarily due to underwater landslides, the sandstone layers distort, forming these unique geological formations. Sea and Mountain Falls: At the end of the trail, you will encounter the final scenic sight, "Sea and Mountain Falls." This waterfall is the only one in Kenting. Its water flows directly down to the sea, creating an impressive view. The waterfall's water originates from hillside streams above. When the water cascades down from the top, it becomes the authentic "Jia Luo Shui." During the rainy season, when water is abundant, its descent to the sea is mighty and forceful. In the dry season, the stream appears as a delicate, gentle flow. Thus, the grandeur of the Sea and Mountain Falls is rare and special.