Written/Compiled & Reported by Chen Guanxin, MOOK Travel Life Network
In early summer, the mild weather of Yangmingshan retains a slightly cool, moist vibe in the mountains and forests, making it perfect for a family outing. A short trip to Yangmingshan at this time not only allows you to enjoy activities such as butterfly-watching on Datun Mountain and concerts during the “Yangmingshan Butterfly Season” series, but also lets you take a stroll and admire the scenery at places like Qintian Gang and Dream Lake. Meanwhile, the unique cafes scattered across Yangmingshan exude the rich aroma of coffee, inviting visitors to enjoy an afternoon tea amidst lush greenery.
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In the pleasant early summer weather, spend a relaxing time with your family on Yangmingshan, where fluttering butterflies, beautiful scenery, and coffee aromas intertwine. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editorial Department)
A Must-Experience in Early Summer – The Yangmingshan Butterfly Season
Yangmingshan National Park boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna. During the warmer months of May to June, when flowers are in full bloom, it’s also the peak season for butterflies. Coming here during this time not only treats you to the visual feast of butterflies fluttering around, but also allows you to participate in free events like the Butterfly Ecology Exhibition, Datun Lohas Butterfly Fun, and the Butterfly Season Concert. Among these, the Datun Lohas Butterfly Fun runs from June 1 to June 23, with on-site registration available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM next to the Erziping Visitor Service Station. During this period, ecology interpreters will guide both adults and children in learning about butterfly ecology.
Hiking with Family to Admire Scenic Views – Qintian Gang & Dream Lake
Qintian Gang was historically surrounded by mountain ranges such as Qigu Mountain, Zhugao Mountain, and Shitai Mountain, and was once called “Daling” due to its location. During the Qing Dynasty, it served as grazing land for cattle and was thus known as “Niu Pu” (Cattle Field). In the Japanese colonial period, due to its position on the saddle between mountains, it was referred to as “Daling (Shanka).” In 1972, Chiang Ching-kuo renamed it “Qintian Gang.” The area’s grasslands lack dense growth of silvergrass or trees, thanks to historical cattle grazing and the influence of northeastern monsoons, creating a layered expanse of green meadows. Strolling through it feels like being in a Swiss pasture.
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The rare mountaintop grassland scenery in Taiwan offers boundless views on sunny days, refreshing the mind and spirit. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editorial Department)
Dream Lake earned its poetic name due to the hazy mist that often shrouds its surface. As a protected area within Yangmingshan National Park, entry requires prior permission. However, the route from Lengshuikeng to Dream Lake features a viewing platform where you can admire its beauty.
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Formed by the collapse and water accumulation of the Seven Star Mountain East Peak, Dream Lake is often veiled in mist, giving it a dreamlike quality. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editorial Department)
Savoring Afternoon Tea in a Verdant Setting – Le Marais Image Café & Taipei Aowanda Café
Le Marais Image Café, founded by portrait photographer Lai Yuezhong, was initially planned as a vacation home for his family. Due to the need for a photography studio that could double as an outdoor set, he renovated it further, adding more visual elements and colors. The interior is extremely romantic and elegant, while the outdoors exudes a wild, unrestrained charm. What would it be like to enjoy English-style afternoon tea with your family in this poetically beautiful studio? Take a trip to “Le Marais”!
[Info]
Address: No. 13, Lane 131, Jing Shan Road, Shilin District, Taipei City
Phone: 02-2862-4347
Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Website: http://goo.gl/YQB07
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After a walk in the mountains, enjoy a hearty English afternoon tea with your family. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editorial Department)
The owner of Taipei Aowanda Café worked in planting and grew various tree species on his own hillside. Every winter, passersby would stop to enjoy the serene moment. To cater to those coming to see the maple leaves, he created Aowanda Café. Stepping into Aowanda Café feels like entering a European farm, where you can stroll intimately with your family and immerse yourselves in the exotic charm of the mountains.
[Info]
Address: No. 13, Lane 13, Pingjing Street, Shilin District, Taipei City
Phone: 02-2861-9862
Hours: Weekdays 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Weekends 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
● Read More: 20 Popular One-Day Park Itineraries for a Light Trip in New Taipei City
http://goo.gl/FpJ6C
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Taipei Aowanda Café’s garden is planted with a variety of flowers, which are regularly changed to create a constantly evolving romantic atmosphere. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editorial Department)