Zhiben Forest Recreation Area

Zhiben Forest Recreation Area

Zhiben Forest Recreation Area is located in Wenquan Village, Beitun Township, Taitung County, with the Zhiben River flowing along its southern edge. The park features rolling green mountains and lush forests, renowned worldwide for its abundance of native ornamental plants and flowers as well as its rich birdlife, making it one of the best bird-watching spots in the suburbs of Taitung City.

Zhiben Forest Recreation Area is equipped with facilities such as the Heroes’ Slope, picnic tables and chairs, forest bathing trails, banyan-shaded paths, and foot massage trails along the stream, all providing visitors with opportunities to relax and enjoy nature. Among these recreational features, the Heroes’ Slope is the most famous. It earns its name from its steep gradient—though only 320 meters long, it has an elevation drop of 150 meters and includes 792 steps, making it a great spot to test your endurance and determination. After reaching the top, visitors can hike along the banyan-shaded path, where the sight of countless banyan trees is truly spectacular and a highlight of the area. In addition, the recreation area is home to butterfly orchids native to eastern Taiwan. As visitors stroll along the forest paths, aside from enjoying a refreshing forest bath, they can also admire these elegant blooms.

Jhiben Forest Recreation Area

Must-visit reason: Taitung’s most renowned bird-watching destination