Welcome the Year of the Monkey: 2015 Shilin Official Residence Chrysanthemum Exhibition Recreates Journey to the West

By MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department – Compiled and Reported
 

The crisp autumn breeze is in full swing as the Shilin Official Residence Chrysanthemum Exhibition kicks off grandly from November 14 to 29. To celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Monkey, the Taipei City Government’s Parks and Street Lights Office has themed this year’s event “Autumn Chrysanthemums for Fun,” crafting lively and playful “Journey to the West” landscapes using various chrysanthemum varieties—allowing visitors to enjoy the blooms while immersing themselves in a classic Chinese literary masterpiece.

This year’s “Autumn Chrysanthemums for Fun” features nine major exhibition zones, including “Journey to the West: Flaming Mountains,” “Ox-Demon King’s Wedding,” “Rolling in the East Sea,” “Enchanting Spider Cave,” “Peach Garden,” “Monkey Power,” “Fantasy Journey to the West,” “Dreamy Adventure,” and “Flowers Bring Journey to the West.” Various chrysanthemum species—including large upright chrysanthemums, large chrysanthemums, and small chrysanthemums—are used to create dazzling Journey to the West-themed displays.

In past chrysanthemum exhibitions, the most eye-catching attraction has always been the large upright chrysanthemums. In fact, the large upright chrysanthemum is not a specific chrysanthemum variety but rather a cultivation method. By continuously pruning and pinching back the plant, thousands of uniformly sized and neatly arranged chrysanthemums bloom from a single stem. Since starting with 180 blossoms in 2004, the number has grown steadily, reaching 1,580 in 2014. This year, the number of blossoms on display will be highly anticipated. During the event, weekend art, music, and DIY activities are also planned, and there are discounted shops nearby, ensuring visitors can enjoy a delightful and engaging chrysanthemum-viewing experience.

Additionally, when visiting Shilin to see the chrysanthemums, you can also plan a short trip that includes light travel routes to Beitou and Yangmingshan.
● Recommended Beitou Light Travel Itinerary:
Shilin Official Residence → Beitou Library → Beitou Hot Springs → Museum → Beitou Geothermal Valley → Soak in the Beitou Hot Spring Area
● Recommended Yangmingshan Light Travel Itinerary:
Shilin Official Residence → National Palace Museum → Flower Research Center → Largest US Military dependents' housing complex in Asia → Yangmingshan Park → Soak in the Yangmingshan Hot Spring Area