Oakan "Renewed in Beauty" – Crimson Leaves Fall, Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Splendor

▲ The Oakan cherry blossom season has begun. (Photo / Courtesy of the Forestry Bureau, Council of Agriculture, Taiwan)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Oakan has a new look to offer this season. As winter deepens, the iconic crimson foliage of the renowned Oakan National Forest Recreation Area has mostly turned yellow and fallen. What follows next is the vibrant cherry blossom season. From now until the end of March, thousands of cherry trees in the park—including the Formosan cherry, double-flowered cherry, and Wushe cherry—will bloom in sequence. Travelers can start planning their cherry blossom viewing trips.

▲ The Oakan cherry blossom season has arrived, with Formosan cherry, double-flowered cherry, and Wushe cherry blooming in succession. (Photo / Courtesy of the Forestry Bureau, Council of Agriculture, Taiwan)

The Nantou Forest District Office of the Forestry Bureau noted that aside from the maple foliage, various types of cherry blossoms are also planted within the Oakan forest area and along the access roads between kilometers 2 and 4. Among them, the best viewing period for the Formosan cherry and double-flowered cherry is around mid-January to mid-February, while the elegant white Wushe cherry typically blooms from late February to early March.

The office pointed out that the Wushe cherry is a species unique to Taiwan. When in bloom, its snow-white petals create a dreamy and ethereal sight, complementing the surrounding blue skies and greenery for a serene and tranquil aesthetic. Though Oakan is not as famous for cherry blossoms as Alishan or Wuling, its abundance of cherry trees makes for an especially spectacular display when in full bloom.

The office also reminds visitors that Oakan sits at an elevation of approximately 1,200 to 1,600 meters, where day and night temperatures vary greatly. Warm clothing is advised for those traveling up the mountain to view the blossoms. As weekends tend to draw larger crowds, travelers are encouraged to visit on weekdays to avoid congestion. For more details, please contact Oakan National Forest Recreation Area at (049) 2974511.