Majestic Sea of Clouds, Towering Forests – Five Breathtaking Fairylands in Hsinchu

By MOOK Scenic Spots / Christopher | Compiled & Reported

Taiwan boasts abundant natural landscapes. Beyond the well-known wonders of Nantou and Eastern Taiwan, the deep mountains and coastal areas of Hsinchu also offer healing forest scenery that rivals those regions. Here are five of Hsinchu’s most beautiful forest spots. Being surrounded by these spots feels like you can embrace the entire forest with open arms — a dreamy, cloud-treading view that visitors should definitely add to their must-visit list on their next trip to Hsinchu.

1. Smangus
 
Smangus is known as the “God’s Tribe,” located in the most secluded part of the Snow Mountain Range. It was the last place in Taiwan to receive electricity and road access, preserving some of the purest and most undeveloped pristine beauty. The Smangus Giant Tree Grove is a must-see here, featuring Taiwan’s second and third tallest red cypress trees. The entire grove trail is about 5.2 km long, and a round-trip walk takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.

2. Maoluu Forest Exploration
 
A hidden forest gem in Hsinchu’s Guanxi District, Maoluu Forest Exploration lies within an Atayal tribal area. The expansive parkland fosters a diverse and ever-changing natural ecosystem. It’s also a popular filming location for movies and idol dramas. A decade ago, the idol drama “Green Forest” made it famous overnight by building the Green Forest Elementary School here. It later served as a shooting spot for the film “Seediq Bale.” This dreamlike forest wonderland has since attracted large crowds for visits and photos.

3. Guanwu National Forest Recreation Area
 
Guanwu is located at the border between Wufeng Township in Hsinchu County and Tai’an Township in Miaoli County. The area is often shrouded in sea of clouds and mist, earning it the nickname “Hometown of Clouds.” The scenic journey offers breathtaking views as the ever-shifting sea of clouds floats nearby and far away, showcasing the grandeur of nature. At an altitude of about 1,800 meters, the Guanwu Recreation Area is the best starting point and a must-pass location for viewing Mount Dabajian. It features several forest trails and is home to many endemic or endangered plant and animal species unique to Taiwan or even the world.