Xitou Nature Education Area

　　Xitou Nature Education Area, formerly known as Xitou Forest Recreation Area, is located in Lugu Township, Nantou County, just 24 meters from Zhushan. It is one of the seven forest management areas of the Experimental Forest under the College of Agriculture at National Taiwan University. The area is extensively planted with species such as cedar, cypress, red cypress, ginkgo, and moso bamboo. Towering ancient trees and an extensive network of forest trails make it ideal not only for leisurely exploration and forest bathing but also for systematic plant observation and birdwatching, with highlights including the Exhibition Hall, Bamboo Specimen Garden, University Pond, Sacred Tree, and Moso Bamboo Forest.

　　Xitou Nature Education Area can be described as a living natural classroom. The area is home to approximately 300 species of woody plants and 1,300 species of herbaceous plants. In addition to identifying plants using the information signs, visitors can explore the rich collection of plant specimens displayed on the second floor of the Xitou Forest Management Office Exhibition Hall. These are accompanied by slides, charts, and explanatory texts for easy understanding. Moreover, the area hosts around 70 species of birds, so bird enthusiasts are encouraged to bring a Taiwanese bird field guide and binoculars with about eight times magnification to observe some of the most representative high-altitude bird species in Taiwan.

　　Xitou Nature Education Area boasts beautiful forest landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere, teeming with diverse wildlife. Especially when mountain mists and clouds drift through the woods, it offers not only a picturesque, almost dreamlike experience but also a profound sense of spiritual refreshment.

　　Xitou Nature Education Area Must-visit reason: The best place to experience nature in Nantou County