Southern Taiwan’s Hotspot for Cherry Blossoms: A Fusion of Japanese and Local Charm

By Wei Ruyu, compiled and reported

With the 228 Holiday approaching, those planning to go cherry blossom viewing but wanting to avoid the traffic jams on the way to Wuling Farm in Taichung might consider heading to nearby Nantou instead—places like Huisun Forest, Shima Park, Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, Wushe... and other spots.

At Huisun Forest, apart from cherry blossoms, you can also admire the newly bloomed camellia trail. It is home to Taiwan’s only ginger-lily lane, featuring 18 different varieties of ginger lilies. Additionally, near the stream-wading trail, there are delicately shaped native begonias. A single trip here allows you to enjoy a variety of “floral spectacles.” Recently, Huisun Forest has also completed renovations on its accommodations, channeling mountain spring water discovered during the Japanese colonial period into cabins and resort lodges. After hiking the trails, visitors can soak in these uniquely charming forest hot springs to relax their body and mind.

Also in Shima Park, located in Xiaobantian, Lugu Township, thanks to an exchange event between the “Liyou Association” and the “Japan Sakura Cultivation Association,” the area received 1,000 saplings of Kawazu-zakura, resulting in one of Taiwan’s rare Kawazu-zakura groves. If you’re lucky, you might even spot bulbuls and large-billed crows darting about among the blossoms searching for food.

The famous Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Cherry Blossom Festival features around 3,000 cherry trees planted throughout the park, making it one of the largest gatherings of Taiwan mountain cherries in the country. In addition, Wushe, Provincial Highway 14 (Pufu Highway), Grass Head in Xinyi Township, and National Chi Nan University... are also great spots for cherry blossom viewing.

Along Provincial Highway 18, the route to Alishan Forest Recreation Area, the mountain cherry blossoms have already bloomed beautifully. March to April is the best time to view cherry blossoms in Alishan, where you can see various types of Japanese cherries—Yoshino, Fuji, and double-flowered varieties. Those interested can look forward to the Alishan Flower Festival, which will kick off on March 15.

● Read more: Experience a Valentine’s Afternoon Tea Under the Cherry Blossoms at National Chi Nan University
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