A green gem embraced by golden rain trees—Yilan’s "Mingchi" is as beautiful as Europe

Reported and photographed by Cai Wenjun / Yilan

Want to soak in the rich autumn vibes? Head to Yilan. Nestled within the Lihree Moga Ecological Park, the "Mingchi Forest Recreation Area" is a tranquil emerald crystal cradled by mountains. Winding along its wooden boardwalks, every turn unfolds a unique scene. Paired with the vast golden rain tree forest by the lake, every snapshot here looks like a stunning European postcard.

▲ The wooden boardwalks and golden rain trees at Mingchi create a stunning contrast.

▲ The bamboo grove path beside Mingchi.

▲ The Japanese-style garden within Mingchi.

Both the Mingchi Forest Recreation Area and the Qilan Forest Recreation Area are located within the Lihree Moga Ecological Park. To distinguish their charm, Mingchi features Japanese and Western-style elements beloved by Taiwanese travelers—such as the ginkgo forests around the cottages and the hidden Japanese garden nestled among layers of trees. There's also a "bamboo grove path" by the lake, making you feel like you've teleported to Kyoto’s Arashiyama in an instant.

▲ Mingchi offers a unique scene from every angle.

Guides say Mingchi is a semi-natural, semi-artificial lake that sees rain on about 280 days a year. It’s often shrouded in mist year-round, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere. When conditions are right, sunlight filters through the mist over the lake, creating a dreamy glow.

▲ Mingchi takes on a completely different ambiance at sunrise. (Photo provided by Lihree Tourism, photographed by Darwin)

▲ Mingchi at noon.

To capture the perfect shot of the green lake surface, golden rain trees, and blue sky in one frame, visitors are advised to turn right after entering Mingchi and walk along the trail to the central point on the other side. This spot is where the two mountains meet at their lowest elevation. At sunrise, the mist and the first rays of sunlight blend into a uniquely ethereal scene. In the afternoon, the gentle sunlight creates a warm and soothing atmosphere.

Lihree Tourism also notes that due to the recent hot weather, the ginkgo trees at Mingchi are turning yellow more slowly, and the golden rain trees haven’t fully changed color yet. Late November is expected to be the best time to see them.