Rare Fusou cherry blossoms bloom across Taiwan; Aowanda becomes a “snow-white world”

▲ The unique white cherry blossoms, Fusou cherries, in full bloom at Aowanda make the area feel like a snow-white world. (Photo / Provided by Nantou Forest District Office)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Early spring marks the peak of the cherry blossom season, with peach and pink blooms adorning various parts of Taiwan. Unlike other regions, the unique white cherry blossoms—Fusou cherries—native to Aowanda in Nantou have also entered full bloom. Walking into Aowanda feels like stepping into a “snow-white world.” Many visitors even say that when a gentle breeze drifts by, the white Fusou cherry petals fall softly, resembling a snowfall, creating a supremely romantic and beautiful scene.

The Nantou Forest District Office under the Forestry Bureau explained that the Fusou cherry is a species endemic to Taiwan, and it is the smallest and rarest cherry blossom found across the country. Aside from Aowanda and Wushe, it is extremely rare in other areas. It earned its name because it was first discovered in Wushe, Ren’ai Township, Nantou County. The Fusou cherry blooms annually from February to March. Its white petals are edged with a pale yellow-green hue, and when the entire tree is in full bloom, it becomes heavy with blossoms, resembling a cluster of fine white crystals.

▲ White Fusou cherry blossoms in full bloom attract butterflies on their “pilgrimage.” (Photo / Taken fromAowanda Nature Education Center’s Facebook fan page)

The forest office stated that most cherry blossoms planted in Taiwan today are varieties such as the Taiwan cherry, yaezakura, and Yoshino cherry. Aowanda Park is the place with the highest number of cultivated Fusou cherry trees in Taiwan, with nearly 100 trees. The pristine beauty of these snow-white blossoms, set against the blue sky, lush green mountains, and grassy slopes, offers a landscape distinct from the more common pink-hued cherry blossoms.

The earliest to bloom in Aowanda Park are the Taiwan cherries, followed by the yaezakura. The forest office noted that most of these two varieties have already shed their petals. After undergoing this “transformation,” the park is now covered in Fusou cherry blossoms, which will remain in bloom until early March.