Tianxiang Service Station
After driving from Tianxiang to Huitouwan for 8km upwards, you will see a vast view. The Chinese-style pavilion on the way is Huoran Pavilion, which is situated at an elevation of 1,000m and provides a great panoramic view. From here, you can overlook layers of mountains and river terraces. If you look in the direction of Tianxiang, you will see Liwu River meandering between Mt. Sanjiaozhui and Mt. Ta. On your left, you will see Xibao river terraces. If you look down along the steep ridgeline from the lookout pavilion, you will see Wahei’er River and Taci Jili River confluence and to the left you will see the rushing Dasha River.
Perched aloft, Huoran Pavilion can grasp every movement of the tribes in Tianxiang (formerly called Tabiduo) and easily monitor Xibao, Paomachang (“racecourse”), and neighboring mountain areas. Thus, the place was an important strategic location during the Japanese colonial period. Back then, the Japanese troops built a fort here as well, which was located on the high platform right across Huoran Pavilion, divided by the highway. Now, a tablet is erected here with four-character inscription “Yun Ting Yuan Tiao (Overlook from Yun Pavilion).”