By MOOK Scenic Spots Family / Compiled and Reported
Want to enjoy cherry blossoms without spending too much time heading into the mountains? Then the cherry blossom grove at Zhongzheng Memorial Hall, easily accessible by MRT, is a great urban spring flower-viewing option. With more than 200 cherry trees blooming in succession and 11 stunning varieties of cherry blossoms, it attracts domestic and international tourists who pause to admire the view.
The Oh-i樱花 blooms in early March, with visitors scrambling to capture its beautiful image (Photo provided by Sherry)
On the right side facing Zhongzheng Memorial Hall, near the Daxiao Gate, there is a large expanse of Shuuzenji Kanhi-zakura, with its soft and delicate pink hues that are very beautiful. It blooms in late February and can still be enjoyed in early March. Heading to the back side of the main hall, you can admire Oh-i樱花, Kawazu-zakura, and a beautiful avenue of wild mountain cherry trees.
The Taihaku-zakura is a hybrid variety created by crossing Taiwan’s native Beni-shidare-zakura with Japan’s Oshima-zakura. Its pale pink petals are loved by many visitors!(Photo provided by Sherry)
On the left side facing Zhongzheng Memorial Hall, near the Dazhong Gate, you’ll find the Taihaku-zakura. The garden on the side of Aiguo East Road features richly colored double-flowered cherry blossoms (八重桜), and amidst the cherry groves, visitors eagerly capture the beautiful blossoms with their cameras and phones.
The resplendent double-flowered cherry blossoms (八重桜) at Zhongzheng Memorial Hall in full bloom. (Photo provided by Sherry)
In the flower bed of the rainwater harvesting area, there is a stone monument labeled “Friendship Cherry Blossoms.” This area is planted with seven varieties of Japanese cherry blossoms; the large lawns on both sides of the felt flower beds are planted with two types of cherry trees: Yoko and Kawazu.
When the rows of Oh-i樱花 and Shuuzenji樱花 at Zhongzheng Memorial Hall are in full bloom, the entire area turns a stunning shade of pink. (Photo provided by Sherry)
Zhongzheng Memorial Hall is one of the must-visit attractions for foreign tourists coming to Taiwan. Many are impressed by the memorial hall building itself, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Archway, and the National Theater and National Concert Hall on either side. However, the garden landscaping around the hall is seldom mentioned. Yet, the beautiful cherry blossoms lie within this tranquil garden setting — making it a great place for a leisurely stroll and flower viewing on holidays.