Huisun Forest Farm Lights Up Christmas with a Taiwan Cedar Christmas Tree, Igniting Hope

By Liu Jiawen, compiled and reported

The "Light Up the Tree of Hope 2012" series of events at Huisun Forest Farm of National Chung Hsing University will take place from December 24 to 25, featuring sapling giveaways, a forest market, performances by the Original Power Band, and song and dance parties. The highlight is the tree-lighting ceremony on the 25th, where a Tree of Hope made up of seven Taiwan cedars, adorned with tens of thousands of LED lights, will present a dazzling Christmas tree appearance in the evening, remaining lit until the Lantern Festival in 2012.

The tree-lighting ceremony also includes activities such as prayers for blessings and a campfire party. Visitors can write their wishes on wishing plaques and hang them under the Tree of Hope to welcome the new year. The Taiwan cedar is the tallest tree in Taiwan and the only gymnosperm in the world with "Taiwan" as its genus name. It stands alongside ancient species such as China’s metasequoia, ginkgo, and America’s giant sequoia as one of the world’s most representative living fossils. Therefore, a Christmas tree decorated with Taiwan cedars holds special significance. Additionally, the Taiwan cedar welcome avenue at the entrance of the farm is planted with nearly a kilometer of poinsettias, allowing visitors to feel a strong Christmas atmosphere upon entering the forest farm.

In addition to participating in the "Light Up the Tree of Hope 2012" event, Huisun Forest Farm also recommends that visitors plan a 2-day, 1-night ecological experience trip. Free volunteer-guided tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays. Groups need to call Huisun Forest Farm to make a reservation five days in advance. On weekdays, a guided tour fee of NT$600 applies, with the tour lasting 1 to 2 hours. The content includes learning about the origin story of Taiwan cedars, visiting native begonia species, and exploring the camellia trail, offering visitors a deeper understanding of plant ecology.

Huisun Forest Farm official website: huisun.nchu.edu.tw/home.php