Take a short trip to explore the hidden urban gem of Beitou’s ancient village with old trees

By / MOOK Travel Life Network Editorial Team

Near the Hudi settlement in Hushan Village, Beitou District, on the outskirts of Taipei City, there is a 300-year-old soapberry tree that had been gradually withering due to being entangled by parasitic plants. However, in 2012 (the 101st year of the Republic of China), the Taipei City Government’s Department of Urban Development invited experts to treat the old tree. After recuperation, the tree has now regained its vitality. It is estimated that by the end of November, it will once again display a breathtaking golden foliage, adding another excellent scenic spot to Hushan Village.

The soapberry trees in Hushan Community were all planted by early settlers when they migrated to Taiwan, among which the soapberry tree in the Hudi settlement is the oldest. Local elders often gathered under the tree in their leisure time to drink tea and share stories, forming deep bonds and shared memories akin to family. Unfortunately, over the decades, typhoons caused most of the old trees’ branches to break and wither. Thanks to the “health checkups” conducted by the Department of Urban Development, which included pruning and removing parasitic plants, the old tree finally regained its vitality and survived.