Taiwan’s version of an enchanted forest wonderland — embrace breathtaking views in the morning mist for Instagram-worthy shots

By / Scenic Spots.com compiled report

Known as Taiwan’s version of an enchanted forest wonderland, lucky visitors may even find themselves embraced by the morning mist. With the dawn light piercing through the trees, the dreamlike scenery is a rare, magical sight that has become a hot spot for photography enthusiasts.

Cat’s Head Mountain is located in Yuchi, Nantou, right next to Sun Moon Lake. Its trail leads to the Tea Research and Extension Station and the Sun Moon Lake Meteorological Station. The 4.6-kilometer-long trail takes you to the summit where you can enjoy panoramic views of Jiufen’er Mountain and Chijih Mountain. It’s one of the best sunrise spots at Sun Moon Lake.

The surroundings along the trail are serene with excellent visibility, allowing you to admire the rolling hills of Assam black tea plantations, Taiwan fir forests, and sweeping views of Sun Moon Lake. With some luck, you might even encounter a mountain enveloped in morning mist — a truly breathtaking sight.

The trail is divided into two sections. The first section stretches from the trailhead to the Tea Research and Extension Station Yuchi Branch, located halfway up the mountain, covering approximately 3.3 kilometers with an elevation ranging from 750 to 850 meters. The Tea Research and Extension Station is a building dating back to the Japanese colonial era, featuring strong Oriental architectural elements. The station displays exhibits on the history of Assam black tea development, which visitors can explore freely.

The second section extends from the Tea Research and Extension Station to the Central Weather Bureau Sun Moon Lake Meteorological Station, spanning about 1.3 kilometers with an elevation ranging from 850 to 1,005 meters. The path is lined with Taiwan fir trees, creating a unique forest landscape.