Over 40% of maple leaves turn red in Aowanda; plum blossoms in Wushe bloom early due to chaotic weather

Reported by Wei Hongqing, Eastern News Agency / Nantou

The prolonged cold spell continues, and 40% of the maple trees in Aowanda, located in Ren'ai Township, Nantou County, have already turned red. The once emerald-green red cypresses have turned entirely yellow, and the recent fluctuating temperatures have caused the plum blossoms in Wushe to bloom out of sequence earlier than usual. The ever-changing mountain scenery has made Aowanda even more captivating, and the local cuisine of the Seediq people is mouthwatering.

Sunlight filters through the maple leaves as a gentle breeze blows, creating a layered display of green, yellow, and red hues. Fallen golden-yellow maple leaves drift along the stream, adding another layer of charm. The maple leaves in Aowanda are both refreshing and unforgettable.

A visitor said, "Friends told me decades ago, 'Oh, Aowanda is so beautiful!' and I’m only visiting for the first time today. It’s absolutely wonderful!" Xu Yimei, a recreation section officer at Nantou Forest District Office, explained, "The wind from the valley below blows upward, creating a more noticeable temperature difference compared to other areas of the park. That’s why the maple leaves turn red more vividly during this season every year."

Enjoying the maple leaves and hiking also requires energy, so don’t miss the local specialties. Stir-fried alpine bamboo shoots, sautéed quickly over high heat, can be turned into a full table of Seediq-style dishes in no time. A full stomach fuels your adventure through the mountains and scenic views. Besides the maple leaves, the red cypresses are also putting on a dazzling show, transforming from lush green to golden yellow almost overnight. Visitors are also coming to take photos and enjoy picnics.

Recently, due to the erratic weather, even the plum blossoms in Wushe couldn’t wait to bloom early. Xu Yimei said, "The seasons are a bit abnormal. After the last typhoon, many leaves were blown off, and the cherry blossom plants experienced sudden cold and heat, causing them to bloom. Due to climate change, the maple leaves aren’t uniformly red—some are sparse and scattered." Park officials estimate the maple leaves will remain vibrant until early December, so those planning to see the foliage should make the trip within these few weeks.

Address of Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area: No. 153, Da’an Road, Ai’ai Village, Ren’ai Township, Nantou County 546
Inquiry Hotline: 049-2974511 FAX: 049-2974513 (Office Hours: 08:00–17:00)
Meal Reservation Hotline: 049-2974519 FAX: 049-2974357