The turning red of bald cypress trees against the lake surface is ultra-romantic – a secret spot in Hualien feels like stepping into an Impressionist painting.

▲The hundred bald cypress trees at Songhu Rest Area in Hualien have gradually begun to change color. (Photo / NetizenSong HongyiProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The cool weather heralds the arrival of early autumn, and the first wave of bald cypress trees has started to change color. The "Songhu Rest Area" in Hualien is planted with a hundred bald cypress trees, standing in the pond and on the lake island. Recently, a netizen captured photos of them turning from green to red. A casual snapshot reveals a dreamy scene, as if you’re in a postcard from a foreign land.

▲Songhu Rest Area is a restaurant located next to Provincial Highway 9, with an outdoor scenery that is straight out of a dream. (Photo / NetizenChen JingxiangProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Hualien’s "Songhu Rest Area" is a restaurant situated next to Provincial Highway 9. Its outdoor dining area features a lake called Songhu, but the most eye-catching sight is undoubtedly the now-famous bald cypress trees, which have recently turned red. The tree shadows reflect on the crystal-clear lake surface, and there's also a raised walkway in the middle of the lake. Standing by the lake and looking east, you can see the Coastal Mountain Range; to the west is the Central Mountain Range. The combination of tree, lake, and mountain scenery presents a rare view like an oil painting.

▲The tree, lake, and mountain scenery present a rare view like an oil painting. (Photo / NetizenChen JingxiangProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

"Songhu Rest Area" was established in December 2015, decorated mainly with logs, and its nostalgic American-style aesthetic can be seen through the collections of the owner. The space is quite spacious, and the cuisine includes both Western dishes such as pasta and risotto, as well as Chinese set meals. Sitting by the window near Provincial Highway 9, you can watch the speeding Taroko Express trains, creating a striking contrast with the slow-paced surroundings — a truly unique experience.

▲Songhu Rest Area’s outdoor area also features a splash pool and a sandbox, where ducks often wander around. (Photo / NetizenSong HongyiProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

In addition to the bald cypress trees and the small lake, the outdoor area’s heart-shaped tree archway is another highlight of the venue. There’s also a splash pool and a sandbox, with ducks often wandering about. It’s a hidden paradise in Hualien where you can enjoy the laid-back vibe of eastern Taiwan.

Songhu Rest Area
Address: No. 15, Section 5, Jifeng Road, Ji’an Township, Hualien City
Business Hours: 11:00–20:30 (Closed every Monday)