By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
For nature enthusiasts, the hot summer is the perfect time to observe wild insects. Taiwan, known as the "Butterfly Kingdom," offers sightings of butterflies all year round. On this small island, there are more than 400 species of butterflies. The Agriculture Bureau has specially compiled a list of 28 butterfly-watching spots in New Taipei City to help visitors plan their own butterfly-viewing journeys.
Taiwan is known as the "Butterfly Kingdom," where butterflies can be seen dancing all year round. (Image source / New Taipei City Government)
Near the streambed of the mountain hiking trails in Shiding Town, large gatherings of Graphium sarpedon (Blue-banded Peacock) butterflies can be spotted. (Image source / New Taipei City Government)
Of the 419 butterfly species found across Taiwan, more than one-third can be seen within New Taipei City. Butterflies can be found not only in urban areas but also in suburban regions and along roadsides. For example, over 60 species of butterflies can be observed in Xinzhuang Youth Park; in Yonghe's Yuantong Temple, you can see species such as the Papilio memnon (Great Mormon), Papilio polyctor (Common Peacock), and Hypolimnas misippus (Danaid Eggfly); while near the streambed of the hiking trails in Shiding Town, large numbers of Graphium sarpedon butterflies gather.
Enjoy the cool serenity of the mountains while butterfly watching. (Image source / New Taipei City Government)
You can also admire the vast, beautiful mountain scenery. (Image source / New Taipei City Government)
The Agriculture Bureau also reminds visitors that most butterflies are active during the daytime, with the best viewing times being between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. When butterfly watching in the summer, safety is important—visitors should go in groups to avoid accidents and strictly follow the principles of not damaging habitats, not disturbing the butterflies’ lives, and not picking flowers at will. Only then can you truly enjoy the delight of dancing with the butterflies.