water flowing upwards
1 / 10

Water Running Upward

3.9
·14k reviews·, Taiwan

Witness a baffling optical illusion where water appears to flow uphill in this unique roadside attraction on Taiwan's east coast.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best to see the illusion

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
water flowing upwards

Water Running Upward

Best Time

Daytime

Best to see the illusion

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness a baffling optical illusion where water appears to flow uphill in this unique roadside attraction on Taiwan's east coast. Instagram

3.9
(14k reviews)

"It's a very small, very cool, quick little stop along the east coast. Its a very neat optical illusion. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Drop a Leaf to See

Place a leaf or flower in the water to clearly observe the illusion of it flowing uphill.

👀 Widen Your View

To fully grasp the illusion, don't just focus on the water; widen your view to see the subtle slope.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Upward Flowing Water

The Upward Flowing Water

Irrigation channel

Witness the baffling phenomenon of water appearing to flow uphill in this unique natural optical illusion.

Instagram
Leaf and Flower Test

Leaf and Flower Test

Irrigation channel

Drop a leaf or flower into the water and watch it seemingly defy gravity as it travels 'uphill'.

Reddit
Souvenir Market & Crafts

Souvenir Market & Crafts

Near the top of the illusion

Browse local aboriginal bracelets and enjoy ice cream at the friendly souvenir market.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Manage Expectations for a Quick Stop

While the 'Water Running Upward' is a fascinating optical illusion, it's best viewed as a brief, quirky stop rather than a primary destination. Many visitors suggest it's a great quick stop when passing by on the east coast, but not worth a dedicated trip if you're short on time. Reddit

Understand the Illusion

The 'water running upward' is an optical illusion created by the surrounding landscape and the design of the irrigation channel. To fully appreciate it, try dropping a leaf or flower into the water and observe its seemingly gravity-defying journey. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best to see the illusion
Crowd
Medium
When
When passing by
Why
Ideal for a quick stop
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Water Running Upward. It really doesn’t translate to video, but this is the most amazing optical illusion. My brain is telling me the water is flowing up the hill.
rossbuc
14 likes • 211 views

🎯 Drop a Leaf to See

Place a leaf or flower in the water to clearly observe the illusion of it flowing uphill. Reddit

👀 Widen Your View

To fully grasp the illusion, don't just focus on the water; widen your view to see the subtle slope. Reddit

absolutely underrated travel spot!!! 📍Taitung, Taiwan places shown: * taipei 101 * xiaoyueliu (小野柳) * Paul Chiang Art Centre (江賢二藝術園區) * water running upward (水往上流) * sanxiantai arch bridge (三仙台) * yuan viewing platform (富源觀景平台) Travel / Travel Destination / Taiwan / Taiwan Travel / explore taiwan / bucketlist / tropical vacation / vacation / aritzia / viewpoint #vacationtransition #taipei ...
sharonnhsu
375 likes • 14K views
Was ist das für ein Trick 🤔? . #magic #taiwan #vacation #travel #reise #abenteuer #WaterGoingUp #WaterGoingUpwards #WaterRunningUpward #WasserFliesstBergauf #AgainstGravity #GegenDieSchwerkraft
radiobambi
0 likes • 2.9K views

🚗 Easy Parking & Toilets

New parking and toilet facilities are available, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

⏱️ Quick Visit

Allocate 30-60 minutes for this unique stop; it's perfect for a short break. Reddit

One of the landmarks of #taitung in #taiwan is water running upward. It’s quite unbelievable but the actual reason is a kind of optical illusion of nature and the surroundings. #waterrunningupward #taitungtravel #taiwantravel
palsuvam
10 likes • 146 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Drop a Leaf to See

Place a leaf or flower in the water to clearly observe the illusion of it flowing uphill. Reddit

👀 Widen Your View

To fully grasp the illusion, don't just focus on the water; widen your view to see the subtle slope. Reddit

🚗 Easy Parking & Toilets

New parking and toilet facilities are available, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

⏱️ Quick Visit

Allocate 30-60 minutes for this unique stop; it's perfect for a short break. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Finds

Check out the souvenir market for aboriginal bracelets and local crafts. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(14k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find 'Water Running Upward' to be a fascinating and quirky optical illusion, perfect for a quick, memorable stop along the east coast. While some note it's not a destination in itself, the unique phenomenon, convenient facilities, and friendly souvenir market are frequently praised. Reddit+1

"Its a tourist trap kind of place but I liked it as a quick stop off when passing by. Don't travel out of your way for it. The water does look like it is going uphill (put a leaf in the water and watch it go uphill).

There's a nice little souvenir market where you can buy aborigonal bracelets for a good price and get some ice cream. The lady is very friendly."

TRIPhil

"I love this place. The views from the top are stunning. It is a little ditch of water that looks like its flowing up due to an optical illusion but it's really fun to drop in a leaf or flower and watch it seemingly go up against gravity. At the top there's an area where they sell touristy food and crafts. They've put in a brand new parking lot which fits a lot more cars and a new toilet next to this parking lot. There is also a toilet at the top near the market area. There's a big patch of grass up the top and you can bring a bubble wand and let the kids run free. This is a cool little place. Takes only 30 - 60 mins."

Carolina Day

"This is a very small, very cool, quick little stop along the east coast. Its a very neat optical illusion. I was glad I stopped to check it out."

Stringfellow Hawke

What People Like

Unique optical illusion
Convenient parking & toilets
Friendly souvenir market

What People Dislike

Can be a tourist trap
Not a primary destination

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Water Running Upward is located along Taiwan Provincial Highway 11 at the 146K mark, often referred to as Hualien-Taitung Coastal Highways. It's a popular stop for those driving along the east coast of Taiwan. Instagram Many visitors find it convenient to visit as part of a larger road trip. Reddit

Yes, there is a new, spacious parking lot that can accommodate many cars. This makes it a convenient stop for travelers. Reddit

While specific public transport routes directly to the site might be limited, it's generally best accessed by private vehicle or scooter, especially if you're exploring Taiwan's east coast. Instagram

The most engaging way to experience it is by dropping a leaf or flower into the water and observing its seemingly uphill movement. InstagramReddit It's a visual trick that fascinates many. Instagram

Yes, it's a relatively quick stop, making it an excellent addition to a day trip exploring the scenic east coast of Taitung. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to see the 'Water Running Upward' phenomenon. It's a natural attraction accessible to all. Reddit

As a natural phenomenon and roadside attraction, it's generally accessible at any time. However, it's best viewed during daylight hours to clearly see the optical illusion. Instagram

The souvenir market itself does not have an entrance fee. You can browse freely, and purchases are optional. Reddit

Yes, there are toilet facilities available, including a new one next to the main parking lot and another at the top near the market area. Reddit

While there are kiosks selling food and drinks, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own, especially if enjoying the grassy areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

To capture the illusion effectively, try to frame the shot so the surrounding landscape subtly guides the viewer's eye, making the water's path appear to ascend. Instagram Including a leaf or flower in the water can enhance the visual effect. Reddit

The area around the irrigation channel offers the primary photo opportunities. The souvenir market area also provides views and a place to capture the overall atmosphere. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone will work well. Consider using a slightly wider angle to capture the context of the illusion. Instagram Natural daylight is ideal for clarity. Instagram

Absolutely! Videos are a great way to showcase the baffling nature of the 'water running upward' phenomenon. Instagram

During peak times, it might be a bit crowded. Visiting during off-peak hours or being patient can help you get a clearer shot. Reddit

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

The primary attraction is the optical illusion where water in an irrigation channel appears to flow uphill. It's a unique natural phenomenon that sparks curiosity. Instagram+1

Most visitors spend between 30 to 60 minutes here. It's a quick stop that offers a memorable experience without requiring a significant time commitment. Reddit

Yes, there's a large patch of grass where children can run freely. Dropping leaves or flowers into the water is also a fun activity for kids. Reddit

You can find local aboriginal bracelets and other touristy crafts at the souvenir market. Reddit

The illusion is generally visible, but its effectiveness can depend on your viewing angle and focus. Some visitors note that widening your view helps perceive the subtle slope. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Water Running Upward is a fantastic, quick stop for families. The main attraction, the 'water flowing uphill,' is a captivating optical illusion that will intrigue children and adults alike. Instagram Dropping leaves or flowers into the water is a simple yet engaging activity that kids will love, making them feel like they're part of a magic trick. Reddit

Beyond the illusion, the site offers practical amenities like new parking and restrooms, which are always a plus for families on the go. Reddit There's also a patch of grass where kids can run around and burn off some energy. The souvenir market offers a chance to find small mementos, and ice cream is usually a hit with younger travelers. Reddit It's a low-stress, short-duration stop that adds a unique element to a family road trip along the coast. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

For those embarking on a road trip along Taiwan's stunning east coast, 'Water Running Upward' is a must-stop. It's perfectly situated along Highway 11 and offers a memorable, albeit brief, experience that breaks up the journey. InstagramReddit The convenient parking and restroom facilities make it an easy and comfortable stop. Reddit

As a day-trip destination from Taitung City, it pairs well with other coastal attractions. Its unique nature means you'll have a quirky story and interesting photos to share. Don't expect a full day's activity; it's designed for a quick, impactful visit, typically lasting under an hour. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Science Behind the Illusion

The 'Water Running Upward' is not magic, but a clever play of perspective and landscape design. It's an irrigation channel that, due to the surrounding terrain and the way the ditch is constructed, creates a powerful optical illusion. When viewed from a specific angle, the slight downhill slope of the channel appears to be an uphill one, making the water seem to defy gravity. InstagramReddit

To truly appreciate this phenomenon, visitors are encouraged to experiment. Dropping a small object like a leaf or a flower into the water allows you to track its movement and marvel at how it appears to travel against the natural flow of water. Reddit This interactive element makes the experience more engaging and memorable for all ages. Instagram

While it might seem like a simple trick, the effectiveness of the illusion has captivated travelers for years. It's a testament to how our perception can be easily tricked by natural formations and clever design. Instagram

A Convenient Roadside Attraction

Located along the scenic Taiwan Provincial Highway 11, 'Water Running Upward' serves as an ideal quick stop for travelers exploring Taiwan's east coast. InstagramReddit Its accessibility and the provision of amenities like a new parking lot and restrooms make it a hassle-free detour. Reddit

The site offers more than just the illusion. A small souvenir market is present, where visitors can purchase local crafts, including aboriginal bracelets, and enjoy treats like ice cream. Reddit This adds a layer of local flavor and provides an opportunity to support local artisans. The presence of a grassy area also makes it a pleasant spot for families to relax for a short while. Reddit

Most visitors find that 30 to 60 minutes is sufficient to experience the illusion, grab a snack, and perhaps pick up a souvenir. This makes it a perfect addition to a longer road trip itinerary without significantly impacting travel time. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2