Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area

Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area

The Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area is located in Xiayun Village, Fuxing Township, Taoyuan County. The area’s Dongyanshan Mountain, named for its resemblance to a large eye gazing eastward when viewed from afar, is the highest peak in the region, standing at an elevation of 1,212 meters. It takes about an hour to reach the summit via the Dongyanshan self-guided hiking trail. The mountaintop offers expansive views, allowing visitors to admire the beautiful surrounding mountain scenery. The nearby Beichatianshan Mountain can be reached via a hiking trail and is a famous peak that attracts many climbers. The area features extensive artificial forests of Japanese cedar, covering over 300 hectares. The dense, neatly arranged woodlands create a pleasant and scenic environment. Some sections have gentle terrain and rich biodiversity, with lush vegetation, making them ideal for forest bathing activities.

A variety of bird species are commonly seen in the Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Common birds include the bamboo partridge, white-eared sibia, crested goshawk, streak-breasted scimitar babbler, yellow-bellied bulbul, and Taiwan yuhina. There are also many butterfly species, mainly including the plain tiger and great mormon. The area is home to a diverse range of mammals, such as the Formosan macaque, Formosan gem-faced civet, Formosan serow, wild boar, Formosan serow, Formosan rock macaque, Chinese hare, Siberian weasel, red-bellied tree squirrel, Formosan striped squirrel, and Japanese giant flying squirrel. The area enjoys a mild climate, cool and pleasant in summer, making it suitable for vacationing and leisure. Spring and autumn bring clear, crisp weather, which is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.