Six Natural Wonders of Lugu Valley – Spend a Full Day Exploring Bamboo Groves and Waterfalls

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots, compiled and reported
 
Lugu Valley is located in Nantou County and boasts abundant forest ecological resources. Its tea and bamboo shoots are renowned throughout Taiwan, making it an ideal destination for sightseeing. Plan a weekend getaway with your family to Lugu Valley this season.

1.Xitou Nature Education Area
 
Xitou is a natural classroom, designated as a forest recreation area. It's a highly popular summer retreat thanks to its cool climate and fresh air. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the area is richly planted with species such as Japanese cedar, Hinoki cypress, Taiwan red cypress, and ginkgo—perfect for forest bathing, birdwatching, hiking, and nature walks.
 
Address: No. 9, Forest Lane, Lugu Township, Nantou County
Hours: 07:00 to 17:00
Phone: 04-92612111

2.Dexing Waterfall
 
Dexing Waterfall is located on the Xiaobantian Shizhu Lake industrial road in Lugu Township, a tributary of Dongpu Nei Stream called Chuzi Stream. Formed from the Die Sima Pit rock stratum, the waterfall has two tiers totaling over 50 meters in height. A side trail leads up to the upper tier. Over time, the constant erosion by the stream has carved a pot-shaped deep pool at the top, where water flows year-round, clear and refreshingly cool.
 
Address: Zhulin Village, Lugu Township, Nantou County
Phone: 04-92755720

3.Xiaobantian Stone Horse Park
 
Want to see cherry blossoms without the crowds of Alishan? Visit Xiaobantian Stone Horse Park for a romantic sea of blossoms. Xiaobantian, nestled in the valley of Lugu Township, is often shrouded in mist halfway up the mountain, resembling a fairyland from afar—hence the name “Xiaobantian” (Little Half-Day). At the park’s entrance, eye-catching red mountain cherries and thatched decorations welcome you, while the park itself is planted with river cherry, beech, plum trees, and more. Lush green lawns set against blue skies and white clouds offer scenic beauty everywhere.
 
Address: No. 6, 174 Guangfu Road, Zhulin Village, Lugu Township, Nantou County
Phone: 04-92755322

4.Songlongyan Waterfall
 
Songlongyan Waterfall is located within the Shanlinxi Forest Ecological Resort. It takes about an hour to reach on foot via forest trails, along which you can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery of Shanlinxi. The waterfall features a three-tiered landform, with a cave beneath spanning 68 meters wide, 25 meters deep, and 30 meters high. Inside the cave are stalactites and swiftlet nests. Standing beneath the waterfall and looking up, you’ll be awed by the powerful rush of falling water.
 
Address: Zhushan Township, Lugu Township, Nantou County
Phone: 04-92611217
Hours: 07:00 to 21:00