Glorious blue skies and seas have always been a major attraction of Taiwan's east coast. Now there's a new, fun way to take in the magnificent sights.
The new Iris Swing in Yilan is right on the edge of a cliff, where land meets the sea. Gliding back and forth on the swing allows tourists to really appreciate the beauty of the open horizon. Some visitors say the swing is perfect for admiring the stunning colors and even making a special wish.
The Iris Swing was opened in the village of Aohua and named after the Greek goddess of rainbows. The site includes a small museum that showcases the art and culture of the local Atayal tribe, and also the importance of water resources.
The director of the new tourist spot, Pai Wen-pin says that the Iris Museum is an excellent platform to attract tourists and promote cultural exchange.
Increasing tourism to the area will also create more jobs, as visitors flock to seafood markets and to the beaches for water sports. There's hope for future investment opportunities, and that a growing interest in Yilan will mean people show more concern for protecting the ocean environment.