Soaring Against the Current: Family Fun with Rapids at Dongshan River, Yilan

When you think of rapids, thrilling and adventurous images often come to mind. However, the Dongshan River in Yilan offers a different take. With its man-made rapids, this waterway is perfect for family fun and has become a must-visit summer destination for many families. My nephew and I hopped onto a two-person kayak, and under the guidance of an instructor, we plunged into the alternating gentle and swift currents. The splashes, though small, were just enough to make him scream in delight and burst into laughter, thoroughly enjoying himself. At several turns, there were intentionally designed fountains and tipping water buckets, soaking the kids with joy while giving adults a chance to unwind from their busy lives. The rapids of Dongshan River don’t rely on grandeur but instead charm with their playful and interactive nature, creating the most tender and memorable summer flows for everyone.