Qilan National Forest Recreation Area

Qilan National Forest Recreation Area

Qilan National Forest Recreation Area features the former residence of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, the Cherry, Apricot, Peach, and Plum Trail, a Flower and Tree Viewing Area, a Forest Bathing Trail, the Little Tarzan Forest Play Area, fourteen aerobic exercise facilities, and the European-style Qilan Villa along with cozy forest cabins that offer comfortable lodging.

The Sacred Tree Garden Trail in Qilan National Forest Recreation Area spans approximately 2 kilometers, with a leisurely sightseeing journey taking about 90 minutes. It allows visitors to get close to 51 giant trees, each over 400 years old. Notably, the Conservation Office has named these trees after historical figures based on their age. Among them, four trees—Zheng Chenggong, Zhu Xi, Guan Yu, and Yue Fei—are cypress, while the rest are all red cypress.

To protect these giant trees, private vehicles are not allowed to drive directly to Qilan National Forest Recreation Area. Visitors must apply through the Conservation Office or the Qilan and Mingchi National Forest Recreation Areas to arrange for a special shuttle service.

For exploring the famous Forest Bathing Trail of Qilan National Forest Recreation Area, it is recommended to start the journey from the former residence of Chiang Kai-shek. You can go left for the outbound path and return right, completing the loop in about 60 minutes.

Along the way, you’ll find towering trees with sunlight streaming beautifully through the forest. During the flowering season, strolling along the Plum and Peach Trail or the Cherry and Apricot Trail offers a uniquely delightful experience. Especially in winter and spring, when plum and cherry blossoms are in full bloom, Qilan is at its most beautiful—making it the perfect time for a vacation or honeymoon.

Qilan National Forest Recreation Area also boasts many other scenic spots worth visiting, such as the Carefree Pavilion, the Bridge Pavilion, and the Three Rivers Confluence Viewpoint—each offering unique and stunning views.

When you visit Qilan National Forest Recreation Area, don’t forget to try the locally cultivated specialty—monkey head mushrooms, which have a uniquely delicious local flavor.