水往上流 Water Running Upward, Taitung County, Taiwan

水往上流奇觀位於花東海岸公路舊道路,都蘭村的漁橋附近,由都蘭南行1.8 公里,於公路右側即可望見。「水往上流」的現象發生在路旁的農田灌溉溝渠 ,潺潺水流順著水溝蜿蜒往高處流去,令人嘖嘖稱奇。漁橋兩旁的景物因 傾斜度大於路面,故而造成水往上流錯覺,常引起許多好奇的遊客圍看。

 Water Running Upward (水往上流) is a fascinating natural phenomenon located in Donghe Township, Taitung County, Taiwan. Let me share some intriguing details about it:

1. Location and Description:
   • Water Running Upward is situated near the fishing bridge in Dulan Village, Donghe Township.
   • To reach this unique spot, take Provincial Highway No. 11 to Taitung 152K, and then turn about 50 meters (160 feet)to the side of the road.
   • What makes it remarkable is an irrigation ditch that appears to defy gravity: water flows uphillalong the canals instead of following the usual downward path.
2. The Phenomenon:
   • Imagine a narrow ditch next to a stone where water defies the laws of physics by running upward against gravity.
   • Visitors are often amazed by this marvel and the spectacular geographical wonder of Water Running Upward.
   • The phenomenon challenges our intuition—after all, we’re used to seeing water flow downward, not up!
3. Curiosity and Wonder:
   • Tourists who visit this site are curious and ask: “Is the water really flowing up?”
   • The saying goes, “People go upward, and water runs down,” but this spot defies that expectation.
   • Seeing it firsthand is believing, and visitors are left in awe of this natural oddity.
4. Access and Transportation:
   • Open Hours: Water Running Upward is accessible 24 hours a day.
   • Transportation Options:
     • By public transport: Take the TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) to Taitung Station and transfer to the East Coast Line 8101B (Morning/Half-day Trip) or 8101C (Afternoon/Half-day Trip) buses (be sure to reserve seats in advance) to the Water Running Upward stop.
     • Alternatively, take Shing Dong Bus 8101, 8102, 8103, 8109, or 8120 from Taitung Bus Station to reach the same stop.
   • Accessible Transportation: Buses are low-floor for accessibility.
5. Nearby Attractions:
   • While you’re in the area, consider visiting other nearby attractions, such as the Taitung Dulan Police Station and Etolan Style.
   • Water Running Upward is just one of the many wonders waiting to be explored in Taitung County.

Next time you’re in Taiwan, make sure to witness this gravity-defying spectacle at Water Running Upward! 

While the phenomenon of Water Running Upward might seem magical or defy our intuition, there are scientific explanations for this intriguing occurrence. Let’s explore a couple of theories:

1. Capillary Action and Surface Tension:
   • Capillary action is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without external forces like gravity. It occurs due to the combination of surface tension and adhesion.
   • In the case of Water Running Upward, the narrow ditch or canal likely has a specific shape that promotes capillary action.
   • When water molecules adhere to the surface of the canal, they create a meniscus (curved surface) due to surface tension. This meniscus can cause water to flow against gravity.
2. Geometry and Pressure Differences:
   • The shape and dimensions of the canal play a crucial role. If the canal is narrow and has a specific angle, it can create pressure differences.
   • Imagine a U-shaped canal with one end higher than the other. As water flows through, the pressure at the lower end increases, pushing water upward.
   • This effect is similar to how water can rise in a narrow tube (like a straw) when you place one end in a glass of water.
3. Local Geological Factors:
   • The specific location of Water Running Upward matters. Geological features, such as underground rock formations or natural springs, can influence water flow.
   • It’s possible that the area has hidden geological structures that contribute to this phenomenon.
4. Observation and Perception:
   • Sometimes our perception can be misleading. Visitors might perceive the water as flowing upward, but it could be an optical illusion.
   • The surrounding landscape, angles, and other factors can create the illusion of upward flow even if the water is technically moving downward.
5. Tourist Attraction and Mystery:
   • Regardless of the scientific explanation, Water Running Upward remains a popular tourist attraction due to its uniqueness.
   • The mystery and wonder associated with it make it a memorable experience for visitors.