The Most Breathtakingly Beautiful and Healing Forests: Six Must-Visit Spots to Unwind

By the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported

Taiwan not only boasts the unique landscape of being surrounded by the sea on all sides, but also the rich mountain ranges in its central region that hide forest sanctuaries akin to a fairyland. In the eastern mountainous areas of Taoyuan, there is the largest forest recreation area in northern Taiwan, as well as majestic sacred tree groves. These areas not only feature well-planned hiking trails, but also offer a variety of landscapes and forest vegetation along the way. Below is a list of six forest-themed spots in Taoyuan. Next time you visit, why not embark on a carefree journey?

1. Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area
Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area is located at the tail end of the Snow Mountain Range. From a distance, the shape of the mountain resembles a lying maiden gazing eastward with her large eyes, hence the name. The entire recreation area spans nearly 1,000 hectares and features a spectacular sea of over 300 hectares of Japanese cedar trees. From the mountaintop, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, as well as sights of Taoyuan, Sanxia, and the Tamsui River, making it a great spot to admire the night scenery of Taoyuan.

2. Auer Forest Academy
“Auer Forest Academy” is located within the Hu Tou Shan Park, known as the “Back Garden of Taoyuan.” Built without damaging the park’s landscapes or trees, wooden elevated walkways have been constructed among the woods. Taking advantage of the banyan tree’s tendency to entwine, the trees and treehouses coexist, creating three vibrant “living” treehouses. These are decorated with owls of various sizes and are named “Auer Forest Academy.”

It includes a hexagonal “Tree Reading Classroom” designed for close-up observation of tree growth ecology; the owl-shaped “Coo Coo House” offers a view into bird ecology; and the boat-shaped “Green Ark” serves as the best performance platform for children, who never tire of playing there.

3. Lala Mountain Sacred Tree Group
The red cypress sacred tree group of Lala Mountain is as renowned as those of Alishan, which has brought fame to Lala Mountain and attracted visitors from all over. In addition to towering red cypress and hinoki sacred trees that reach into the clouds, the area also features color-changing trees such as maple and beech. When autumn arrives and the green leaves turn red, the scenery becomes even more poetic.