Most Photogenic Fantasy Forest Scenes: Taiwan’s Four Hidden Black Forests

By MOOK Scenic Spots · Reported by Christopher
Image sources / Taipei City Government, Taichung City Government, Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Administration, Taitung County Government

Capturing the magical ambiance of forests has become one of the most popular photo backdrops among netizens in recent years. Towering trees standing straight and dense form a fantastical woodland, resembling a dreamland inhabited by elves. This setting is beloved not only by photography enthusiasts and netizens, but also frequently used as a wedding photoshoot backdrop. In addition to the famous Jiutian Black Forest in Taichung, we’ve selected three other hidden black forest spots across Taiwan where visitors can go to take photos.

Taipei – Zhuzihhu Black Forest
 
Located in Zhuzihhu, Yangmingshan, this black forest is known as Taipei’s version of the “Forest of No Worries.” Its dense woods exude a profound sense of nature and are not only a must-visit for wedding photography, but also feature heart-shaped installations that attract crowds of netizens eager to capture the perfect shot.
 
[Info]
Address: No. 63, Zhuzihhu Rd., Beitou District, Taipei City

Taichung – Jiutian Black Forest
 
The famous Jiutian Black Forest gets its name from the nearby Jiutian Xuannü Temple. The towering, straight trees with deep black trunks, when bathed in sunlight or shrouded in mist, create an air of mystery that feels different at every moment—as if elves might appear at any time.
 
[Info]
Address: Enter via the road next to Jiu Tian Folklore Arts Troupe, No. 99, Qingquan Rd., Daya District, Taichung City

Nantou – Puli Black Forest
 
The black forest in Puli is a hidden gem even many locals don’t know about. The densely packed, towering trees of the black cypress forest are referred to as a “black forest” by locals. With its breathtaking scenery rivaling that of Taichung’s Jiutian Black Forest, it has also become one of the favorite photo spots for cyclists.
 
[Info]
Address: A 5-minute walk from the Puli Supervision Branch Station (23.951460, 120.969289)

Taitung – Forest Park
 
Taitung Forest Park was originally named Black Forest because the entire area was planted with casuarina trees for windbreak purposes. From a distance, the forest appears pitch-black, hence the name. The park includes bike paths that weave through the casuarina woods and connect three lakes: “Pipa Lake,” formed by underground springs; “Egret Lake,” originally a swamp that was restored; and “Living Water Lake,” an artificial lake that hosts various water sports and triathlon competitions. Together, the three lakes and the casuarina forest form a complete estuarine and coastal wetland ecosystem, rich in biodiversity.