via Taipei Times, 12 January 2024: The Wanshan petroglyphs, nestled in Taiwan’s Kaohsiung mountains, hold centuries-old mysteries of their origin, dating back 500-1600 years. Discovered in 1978, these petroglyphs, attributed to a legendary Rukai woman, are the only known prehistoric rock carvings in Taiwan.
A visit to the petroglyphs is a big commitment, requiring three to four days for the return trip. The journey starts near the end of the road in Maolin District (茂林), a mountainous area settled by the Rukai in Kaohsiung. From Duona (多納), go downstream a short distance then turn right and go upstream along the Jhuokou River (濁口溪) for several kilometers until the point where it splits into the Shanhuanunu River (山花奴奴溪) on the right and the Malishan River (馬里山溪) on the left. Finally, proceed a short distance up the Malishan until reaching the trailhead.
This first part of the journey can now be done in a 4×4 vehicle arranged locally, but we chose to walk in to save money. As it turned out, the walk itself was quite beautiful and worth doing slowly on foot. The river winds around the base of Zumu Mountain (足母山), the valley features stunning vertical walls in places and the water is pristine. River tracing shoes are recommended as the river must be crossed over 20 times.
