Must-try for laid-back travelers: Taiwan’s top five forest bathing paradises

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Forest bathing refers to visiting forests or parks to breathe in the naturally fresh air, as if immersing yourself in an environment rich in oxygen, negative ions, and phytoncides. It is an ancient wellness practice known for its ability to rejuvenate both body and mind.

1. Nantou – Xitou Nature Education Area
At an altitude of 1,150 meters and covering around 2,500 hectares, Xitou Forest Recreation Area is part of the National Taiwan University Experimental Forest. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the area enjoys a cool climate and boasts a serene bamboo forest that feels like a heavenly realm. Key attractions include University Pond, Ginkgo Forest, Youth Activity Center, Bamboo Lodge, Xitou Sacred Tree, Moso Bamboo Forest, and Hinoki Forest.

2. Taoyuan – Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area
Located at the tail end of the Snow Mountain Range, Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area gets its name from its mountain silhouette that resembles a reclining maiden gazing eastward with wide-open eyes. Spanning nearly 1,000 hectares, the park features a stunning 300-hectare sea of cedar trees. From the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges, as well as distant vistas of Taoyuan, Sanxia, and the Tamsui River—making it also a great spot to watch the Taoyuan night scenery.

3. Yilan – Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area
Situated in Yilan, Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area is home to precious cypress resources and serves as a cradle for rare tree species. The area offers abundant scenic wonders such as hot springs, sea of clouds, snowscapes, waterfalls, and lakes. Below is a recommended one-day itinerary in Taipingshan, perfect for nature lovers and also one of the best spots to catch the sunrise.