Written/Compiled and reported by the editorial team of MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network
As autumn sets in, maples and Japanese maples slowly shift to reds and golds. With your camera in hand and a light jacket on, the maple-viewing season has quietly arrived. In the 45th issue of the high-speed rail magazine last year, architecture expert Professor Gong Shuzhang showcased the beauty of Huatao Kiln as it changes with the seasons and ecological rhythms—golden maple leaves and serene, picturesque paths that make it hard to believe such scenery exists right in Yuanli Township, Miaoli.
As autumn sets in, maples and Japanese maples slowly shift to reds and golds. With your camera in hand and a light jacket on, the maple-viewing season has quietly arrived. In the 45th issue of the high-speed rail magazine last year, architecture expert Professor Gong Shuzhang showcased the beauty of Huatao Kiln as it changes with the seasons and ecological rhythms—golden maple leaves and serene, picturesque paths that make it hard to believe such scenery exists right in Yuanli Township, Miaoli.
Photo of maple trees published in Issue 45 of the High-Speed Rail Magazine. (Image provided by Huatao Kiln)
The serene path within Huatao Kiln, where golden maples and maples enhance the autumn elegance. (Image source: Huatao Kiln)
In autumn, at Yuanli’s Huatao Kiln, deciduous plants such as green maples, sweet gums, and Chinese parasol trees follow the rhythm of the seasons, their yellow and red leaves taking center stage across the landscape, making graceful appearances throughout the Kiln’s grounds. Located on the western foothills of Yuanli, Miaoli, Huatao Kiln is the studio of ceramic artists Chen Wenhui and his wife. Established in 1984, the kiln overlooks Iron Anvil Mountain and gazes down upon the Dajiaxi Alluvial Plain. Covering nearly six hectares in total, it is divided into two main areas: a traditional Taiwanese cultural garden and a native plant ecological zone. Its overall design integrates uniquely Taiwanese architectural landscapes, native plant cultivation, wood-fired ceramic artistry, and ecological restoration—making it...the first and most representative site in central and northern Taiwan’s coastal region that harmoniously blends humanities, arts, and natural scenery.
The golden hues of Huatao Kiln’s green maples are emerging. Due to visitor limits, those wishing to enjoy the foliage are advised to book in advance. (Image provided by Huatao Kiln)
Upholding the value of “rooted in local culture,” this place is not just a pottery kiln but also seeks to reflect the diverse memories of Taiwan’s history, humanity, and nature by connecting with the cultural essence of everyday life spaces. Through the preservation of Miaoli’s traditional climbing kilns, the restoration and cultivation of native plants, and the integration of early Taiwanese residential architectural elements, it embodies the philosophy that “the beauty of Taiwan remains timeless.” Its operation is guided by the ideals of pottery-making, kiln-firing, planting, landscaping, and restoring native flora.
Huatao Kiln is lush with greenery, featuring lawns and trees—an ideal spot for families with kids to enjoy a nature walk. (Image source: Huatao Kiln)
With its abundant natural beauty combined with pottery culture, visitors can enjoy a half-day trip to admire ceramics, native animals, hand-pulled cups, and more for a relaxing outing. Now, with the changing colors of the maples, you can even book a visit to enjoy the foliage, enriching your half-day experience with both culture and nature.
Huatao Kiln is the studio of ceramic artists Chen Wenhui and his wife. Its leisurely and rustic atmosphere offers travelers a moment of peace all their own. (Image source: Huatao Kiln)
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