Weekend dates? This is the place — Five hot spots in Yilan for a one-day trip

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Yilan, known as "Little Europe," is not far from downtown Taipei. With its serene and picturesque scenery and atmosphere, it's a popular destination for travelers seeking a light trip and a favorite spot for couples on dates. Here are five popular attractions, recommended for your itinerary and perfect for your next visit to Yilan.

1. A A'maze Rabbit Maze Café & Restaurant
The Rabbit Maze Café & Restaurant is located on Pillow Mountain, a popular attraction in Yuanshan Township, offering the most expansive views. In addition to a 25-meter-long rainbow glass skywalk, the café has created numerous romantic and artistic landscapes. At night, the twinkling lights combined with Yilan’s cityscape make this one of the most popular restaurants in the area.

2. Lizhi Lake
As winter approaches, aside from viewing maple leaves, the most sought-after attraction is the bald cypress. Strolling through vast expanses of crimson-hued bald cypress forests feels like stepping into a movie scene — a dreamy landscape that is both romantic and captivating. Located in Yilan, Lizhi Lake is surrounded by beautifully planted rows of bald cypress trees. When they turn red, the area attracts many photographers.

3. Annongxi Flood Diversion Bridge

The Annongxi Flood Diversion Weir Scenic Area is known as Yilan’s most beautiful cycling path, featuring European-style pastoral landscapes and lakeside scenery that blends with the water and sky. It’s perfect for picnics, walks, and canoeing. During Qixi Festival, the diversion bridge was painted in pinkish-purple hues and illuminated at night, creating a romantic ambiance that has become a new hotspot for Instagram photos.