Spring Outing by Lakes and Mountains to Enjoy Sunset & Flower Blooming – A Rural Nostalgia One-Day Leisure Tour

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department, compiled and reported

March 20th marks the Spring Equinox, one of the 24 solar terms, when sunshine awakens the earth and spring returns. The climate in Taipei City gradually warms up, and it’s the perfect time when green trees thrive and flowers vie in beauty. In the Lushan Community of Yangmingshan, azaleas and camellias bloom together, along with late-blooming cherry blossoms, creating a stunning contrast of red and green. It’s a great opportunity to soak up the spring scenery and plan a flower-viewing and nostalgia trip.

After arriving at the Lushan Community, first step into the “Azalea & Camellia Garden” and stroll along flower-lined paths intertwined with azaleas and camellias. Descend the stairs to reach the 40mm Gun Emplacement, a key military site during the martial law period that protected the Grass Mountain Chateau. After renovation by the Taipei City Department of Urban Development, it now features 3D color paintings depicting the past scenes of soldiers guarding the area, evoking nostalgia among many veterans.

Then walk along the path reconstructed from the “Gun-Trailing Road” to reach the “Sunset Platform,” where you can gaze at the undulating emerald-green mountain ranges. It’s especially recommended to visit between 5–6 PM daily in March, when you can admire the “Guanyin Mountain Sunset” from the platform—the golden glow on the summit of Guanyin Mountain creates a dreamy, enchanting view.

Follow Lake Road to turn onto Hudi Road, pass by the “Wind-Rocking Stone Platform,” then enter the Hengling Ancient Trail to reach the tranquil “Maple Sister Trees Platform.” Continue from the Hudi Trail into the Hudi Community to explore rural scenes such as a century-old soapberry tree, osmanthus trees, and old traditional houses. Finally, ascend via the Hudi Trail to the Liuku Bus Stop and take the “Xiao 36” bus back to Shiba Station on the Taipei Metro Tamsui-Xinyi Line.

Visitors heading to enjoy the flowers are encouraged to use public transportation or hike up the mountain trails—great for fitness and the environment while avoiding the hassle of finding parking.