Taiwan's topography is incredibly steep and mountainous for its size. The Central Mountain Range runs the entire length of the island from north to south, creating a natural barrier between the east and west coasts.
- **Highest Point:** Yushan (Jade Mountain) at 3,952 meters (12,966 ft), which is also the highest peak in East Asia. - **Lowest Point:** Sea level along the Pacific and Taiwan Strait coastlines. - **Plains:** The Jianan Plain in the southwest is the largest flatland, serving as the agricultural heartland. - **Coastal Areas:** The east coast is famous for its dramatic sea cliffs, notably the Qingshui Cliffs that plunge directly into the Pacific Ocean, while the west coast features tidal flats, lagoons, and sandy beaches. - **Canyons:** Taroko Gorge, carved by the Liwu River, is one of the island's most spectacular geological features.
