No need to sweat or ruin your makeup while traveling — explore Taiwan’s 5 handpicked fairy-tale forests for a cool escape!

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Hot summer days call for mountain getaways to beat the heat. ETNEWS Eastday News Cloud has compiled a list of 6 mystical forest hideaways that went viral on Instagram. Heading up the mountains not only helps you escape the summer swelter and breathe in phytoncides, but also lets you snap ethereal, fairy-like photos in the refreshing cool air.

1. Jiutian Black Forest
This spot, located right behind the Jiutian Xuannü Temple and featuring mostly dark tree trunks, is nicknamed Jiutian Black Forest by netizens. The play of light filtering through the woods combined with morning mist creates a fairytale-like atmosphere, making it a popular spot for wedding photos.

Location: No. 99, Qingquan Road, Zhongyi Village, Daya District, Taichung City

▲ Jiutian Black Forest attracts many visitors for photos and check-ins. (Photo/IG@roy.0706Provided, do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement)

2. Forget-Worry Forest
Formed as a barrier lake after the 921 earthquake and surrounded by dead trees, this place exudes an otherworldly vibe. Coupled with its high altitude, the frequent fog adds an extra layer of mystery. However, be cautious of muddy and slippery roads in summer.

Location: No. 12, Xingchan Road, Neihu Village, Lugu Township, Nantou County

▲ %Ji?Qiao?Zhi?Zhi?Mo?Zhi?Sui?Na?Nao?Zhan?An?De?Kuai?Ke? (Graphic/IG@vv_ismeProvided, do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement)

3. Dashan Ginkgo Forest Trail
In Dashan, you can find an expansive ginkgo forest covering about 80 hectares. As the seasons change, the trees display a variety of stunning colors. The ginkgo’s symmetric fan-shaped leaves also symbolize love and vitality. Additionally, there are vast tea plantation landscapes in the area, offering breathtaking views of layered greens.

Location: Mountainous area, Lugu Township, Nantou County

▲ Xitou Forest Park also boasts a romantic ginkgo trail. (Photo/IG@bear88023Provided, do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement)

▲ Near the ginkgo forest, there's also a tunnel formed by a large bamboo grove. (Photo/IG@love_mimi33Provided, do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement)

4. Jianqing Nostalgia Trail
Once ranked among the world’s 28 most beautiful ancient trails, Jianqing Ancient Trail is often shrouded in thick fog due to its high elevation. The lush surrounding woods enhance its dreamy ambiance. It feels like stepping into the world of Studio Ghibli’s Totoro — just push through the bushes and you might just find Totoro!

Location: Taiping Mountain, Datong Township, Yilan County

▲ Entering Jianqing Nostalgia Trail makes you want to shout: “Totoro~ where are you~?” (Photo/IG@season8401Provided, do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement)

5. Maowu Exploration Forest
This forest still preserves the Green Light Elementary School built for the filming of the “Green Light Forest” TV drama. Surrounded by numerous man-made cedar trees, everything here feels like a secluded paradise. Escape your worries in Maowu and immerse yourself in simple, unspoiled beauty.

Location: No. 138-3, Lane 12, Jingshan Li, Guanxi Township, Hsinchu County

▲ Maowu Exploration Forest has a uniquely secluded charm. (Photo/IG@iloveu1314foreverProvided, please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement)