Winter Getaway in Taoyuan: Enjoy Stunning Lake and Mountain Scenery

Reported by the Tourism Center / Taoyuan

The year’s coming to an end. Besides rushing from one party to another, have you started planning a trip to reward yourself for a year of hard work? Why not take a relaxing two-day, one-night winter mini-vacation with your loved one or family, and enjoy the warmth of happiness even in the chilly weather?

▲(Left image) The beauty of Cihu is breathtaking, full of the charm of the Jiangnan landscape. (Right image) At the “Cihu Sculpture Memorial Park,” you can admire a variety of Chiang Kai-shek bronze statues. (Image credit: Provided by Wikimedia)

Taoyuan County, home to a wide array of attractions, boasts convenient transportation and stunning scenery. One of its most popular sites is the Cihu Mausoleum, beloved by many visitors. It is said that this place enjoys the prime location of a geomantic dragon’s lair, with beautiful surroundings and enchanting lakeside views. The weeping willows along the shore add to its Jiangnan-like charm. Aside from paying respects at the mausoleum, the hourly changing of the guard ceremony is also a must-see. Performed by rotating military honor guards, the elaborate rifle drills every hour attract both domestic and international tourists eager to take photos, drawing crowds especially on holidays. Additionally, the Taoyuan County Government has set up the “Cihu Sculpture Memorial Park” next to the mausoleum, showcasing Chiang Kai-shek bronze statues collected from around Taiwan. With over 150 commemorative statues now on display, visitors can appreciate works by different sculptors, making it quite an entertaining experience.

▲Shimen Reservoir is blessed with picturesque scenery, offering diverse lake and mountain vistas across the four seasons, making it a must-visit attraction in Taoyuan County. (Image credit: Provided by the Taoyuan Tourism Guide Network)

After visiting Cihu, you can stroll through Daxi Old Street. As the earliest developed area in Taoyuan, Daxi features quaint historic sites, classic Baroque-style old buildings, and plenty of hidden street food delicacies to delight your taste buds. In addition to enjoying the charm of the old street, the scenic beauty along the Dahan River is also captivating. After a day of exploration, relax at a garden café, sip a drink, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. There are also many specialty shops and woodcraft stores where you can browse and pick up souvenirs for family and friends. Once you've had your fill of food and sightseeing on the old street, consider taking a relaxing walk around the Shimen Reservoir area.

▲(Left image) Daxi Old Street is home to many historic buildings and unique shops. (Right image) The scenery at A-mu Ping Wharf. (Image credit: Provided by the Taoyuan Tourism Guide Network)

Shimen Reservoir boasts breathtaking scenery with ever-changing lake and mountain views throughout the seasons. Popular spots among visitors include the dam, spillway, plum garden, viewing platform, lake tour docks, Xizhou Park, Acer Forest Park, Photinia Forest Park, Koelreuteria Forest Park, Koelreuteria Tree Forest Park, and the colorful fountain. In winter, the sight of golden maple leaves falling in waves is truly moving, while blooming white plum blossoms create a dazzling sea of flowers. If you’re lucky enough to witness the dam releasing water, the spectacular scene will be unforgettable. Not only does Shimen Reservoir offer lake cruise boats for visitors, but it also features well-developed cycling paths. Cycling along the nearly three-kilometer dedicated path around the lake, with a gentle breeze and stunning scenery, adds beautiful memories to your trip. And of course, a visit to Shimen Reservoir wouldn’t be complete without trying its famous fresh fish meals—numerous specialty restaurants are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

▲Dongsen Resort features thousands of acres of ecological forest, with the Tree Sea Bridge being the most beloved spot among visitors. (Image credit: Provided by Dongsen Resort)

To maintain a serene and relaxing mood, it’s recommended to choose a resort-style hotel that extends the vacation vibe. Located in Yangmei, Dongsen Resort spans 15,000 ping (approximately 49,500 square meters) of ecological forest, like an unpolished green gem that preserves the miracles of life and ecological beauty in the lush mountains and forests.

The resort’s biggest highlight is that every suite is equipped with a hot spring. The high-quality mineral water is colorless, odorless sodium bicarbonate spring water, also known as “beauty spring.” After a long day of travel, soaking in the hot spring helps relieve fatigue and fully release stress—it's a true winter delight. In addition, the resort offers a range of facilities such as fragrant spa treatments, foot massage services, and a gym to help guests unwind, shake off tiredness, and rejuvenate both body and mind.

▲The resort not only has forest trails for guests to breathe in phytoncides but also provides the joy of soaking in hot springs. (Image credit: Provided by Dongsen Resort)

[Dongsen Resort]
Address: No. 3, Dongsen Road, Yangmei City, Taoyuan County.
Phone: 0800-889-168