Natural Bonding Trips in Yilan – Family-Friendly Holiday Fun
Last updated 2026-09-25 — To enjoy the natural bounty of the Lanyang Plain in Yilan, head to Qilan National Forest Recreation Area or Songluo National Trail. Before descending, make a stop at Tiansongpi Old Train Station, Yulan Tea Garden, or Atayal Life Museum, as well as the nearby Jiuliao Creek. For lunch...
By/MOOK Travel Editorial Team
To enjoy the natural bounty of the Lanyang Plain in Yilan, head to Qilan National Forest Recreation Area or Songluo National Trail. Before descending, make a stop at Tiansongpi Old Train Station, Yulan Tea Garden, or Atayal Life Museum, as well as the nearby Jiuliao Creek. For lunch, visit Ye Fu Chu Yan by Shuanglianpi Pond and savor a chef’s-choice menu featuring seasonal ingredients. In the afternoon, explore Yimin Ranch and Kolin Spring Ecological Irrigation Education Park where kids can learn through play. End your trip at Dazhou Fish Shack to enjoy top-tier fresh delicacies.
Qilan National Forest Recreation Area is located right at the upper reaches of the Lanyang River. Sit on the riverside viewing platform with a cup of coffee for a refreshing experience. (Photo provided by Coconut Grove)
Qilan National Forest Recreation Area
Covering a total area of about 1,700 hectares, Qilan National Forest Recreation Area is situated at the confluence of the Lanyang River, Duowang River, and Tianguer River, featuring wide river valleys and naturally stunning scenery. Legend has it that a pair of Atayal lovers were buried here, and their bodies transformed into the beautiful orchids that now dot the landscape, releasing enchanting fragrances in this idyllic setting. Additionally, the park is adorned with plum, peach, plum blossom, and cherry blossoms that bloom in different seasons, offering a romantic atmosphere no matter when you visit. Another highlight is the densest concentration of “sacred tree” groves in the country, with over sixty towering ancient trees. Beyond the colorful blooms throughout the year, gazing upon these majestic trees also brings a sense of awe and openness.
Adjacent to Qilan National Forest Recreation Area, attractions such as Mingchi Forest Recreation Area and the Century-Old Sacred Tree Grove boast breathtaking scenery and are worth a revisit on your next trip. (Photo provided by Coconut Grove)
Songluo National Trail
Hidden among the mountains in the Atayal village of Songluo in Datong Township is a small path that was once a traditional hunting trail for the Atayal people. After being developed and maintained by the Forestry Bureau, it has now become the national-level Songluo National Trail. The trail lacks obvious signage, often causing visitors to overlook it. However, due to minimal human interference and the warm, humid climate, it has preserved a rainforest-like natural landscape rich in biodiversity.
Particularly, the Taiwan ku fish, commonly known as the "bitter fish," can frequently be spotted in the Songluo Stream along the trail. Although their population once declined drastically due to overfishing, thanks to the efforts of local residents, they have gradually recovered. The trail features no steep terrain, and is equipped with rest pavilions and uniquely designed suspension bridges — some only as wide as a foot, giving hikers the thrilling sensation of walking a tightrope.
Inside the Songluo National Trail lies a serene paradise undisturbed by the outside world, leaving every visitor in awe. The area boasts a rich riverside ecosystem, and guests can cross streams via rope bridges, with the vibrant and energetic waters of Songluo Stream rushing forcefully beneath their feet. (Photo provided by MOOK Travel Editorial Team)
Yulan Tea Garden
Located in Yulan Village, Datong Township, at an altitude of about 500 to 700 meters, Yulan Tea Garden spans approximately 500 hectares and is one of Yilan’s most renowned high-mountain tea plantations. Visitors can gaze across the expansive slopes covered with lush green tea terraces, where rows of neatly arranged tea bushes create a uniquely picturesque scene. Strolling along the garden paths, one can fully immerse in the fragrant aroma of tea wafting through the air. Standing at the sloped observation pavilion offers an exceptional view of the beauty of the Lanyang region — from the Lanyang River to the vast Lanyang Plain, the sweeping panorama opens up one's heart and mind. From above, the staggered tea bushes present poetic lines, and enjoying tea amid such beautiful scenery adds even more delight to the experience.
The endless greenery paired with the rich aroma of tea invigorates both body and soul, making it easy to understand the charm of Yulan Tea Garden. A short stay here will quickly reveal its captivating appeal. (Photo provided by MOOK Travel Editorial Team)
Atayal Life Museum
The Atayal Life Museum, from its architectural design to its exhibition layout, is infused with Atayal cultural elements. It houses a large collection of historical artifacts related to the lifestyle of the Atayal people, making it a great place to appreciate the beauty of Yilan’s Atayal culture. With passionate and insightful guided tours, visitors can experience the true, good, and beautiful aspects of Atayal culture — from the traditional handwoven fabrics hanging from the ceiling, to displayed artifacts, performances in the mini theater, and even the decorative patterns, ornaments, and totems found throughout the museum.
Moreover, the museum offers traditional Atayal clothing for visitors to try on, adding a fun and immersive way to better understand the rich cultural charm of Taiwan’s Atayal people. It’s definitely worth a visit to explore in detail.
Discover the essence of Atayal culture at the Atayal Life Museum. (Photo provided by MOOK Travel Editorial Team)
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