Embrace nature in hidden mountain-water paradises！ Taiwan’s Top 13 Forest Recreation Areas

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family / Compiled Report
 
Taiwan is surrounded by the sea and features spectacular ocean views. But aside from its island charm, its unique geographical conditions and climate—located on an earthquake zone—have also given rise to abundant forest resources. Here are Taiwan’s 13 major forest recreation areas. Take your family up to the mountains to relax on your holiday!

1.Xitou Nature Education Area
 
The Xitou Forest Recreation Area sits at an altitude of 1,150 meters and covers an area of about 2,500 hectares. It belongs to the NTU Experimental Forest. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the area enjoys a cool climate and boasts bamboo forests that look like a fairyland on earth. Major attractions include University Pond, Ginkgo Grove, Youth Activity Center, Bamboo Cottage, Xitou Sacred Tree, Moso Bamboo Forest, and Red Cypress Forest.
 
Address: No. 9, Forest Lane, Lugu Township, Nantou County
Hours: 07:00 to 17:00
Phone: 04-92612111

2.Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area
 
The Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area is located at the end of the Snow Mountain Range. When viewed from afar, the mountain resembles a reclining maiden gazing eastward with wide eyes—hence its name. The entire recreation area spans nearly 1,000 hectares and features a stunning 300-hectare sea of cryptomeria trees. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of surrounding mountain ranges and gaze out toward Taoyuan, Sanxia, and the Tamsui River. It’s also a great spot for viewing night scenery in Taoyuan.
 
Address: No. 35, Jiazhhi, Xiayun Li, Fuxing District, Taoyuan City
Phone: 03-3821506
Hours: Weekdays 08:00 to 17:00, Weekends 07:00 to 17:00

3.Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area
 
Located in the mid-altitude mountain region, Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area offers different charms throughout the seasons: spring cherry blossoms, summer waterfalls, autumn moonlight, and winter maple leaves, each with its own distinctive beauty. The waterfall trail allows you to admire spectacular waterfalls and twin falls while soaking in the abundant negative ions and high concentrations of forest phytoncides.
 
Address: Ren’ai Township, Nantou County

4.Guanwu National Forest Recreation Area
 
Guanwu is located at the border between Wufeng Township in Hsinchu County and Tai’an Township in Miaoli County. The area is often shrouded in sea of clouds and mist, hence it’s also known as the “Hometown of Clouds.” The scenic journey is enchanting, where the ever-shifting sea of clouds displays the grandeur of nature. At an altitude of about 1,800 meters, Guanwu is the best starting point and essential stop for viewing Mount Daba Jian. There are multiple forest trails in the area, home to many endemic or endangered species of flora and fauna found only in Taiwan worldwide.
 
Address: Tai’an Township, Miaoli County
Phone: 03-7272917
Hours: 08:00 to 17:00