By/MoCA Editorial Team
To enjoy the natural bounty of the Lanyang Plain in Yilan, head to Qilan National Forest Recreation Area or Songluo National Trail. Before descending, stop by Tiansongpi Old Railway Station, Yulan Tea Garden, or the Atayal Life Museum, as well as the nearby Jiuliao Creek. Have lunch at Ye Fu Chui Yan by Shuanglianpi Pond, savoring a seasonal, à la carte menu. In the afternoon, visit Yimin Sheep Farm and Kelin Spring Ecological Irrigation Education Park, where kids can learn through play. End your day at Dazhou Fish Shack to enjoy top-quality fresh seafood.
Qilan National Forest Recreation Area is located upstream of the Lanyang River. Sit at the lakeside viewing platform with a cup of coffee for a refreshing experience. (Photo provided by Coconut Grove)
Qilan National Forest Recreation Area
Covering an area of approximately 1,700 hectares, Qilan National Forest Recreation Area is situated at the confluence of the Lanyang River, Duowang River, and Tianguer River, featuring wide river valleys and naturally stunning scenery. Legend has it that a pair of Atayal lovers were buried here, and their bodies transformed into the beautiful orchids scattered throughout the area, emitting enchanting fragrances in this picturesque environment. In addition, the park’s plum, peach, plum blossom, and cherry blossoms bloom in different seasons, offering a romantic atmosphere no matter when you visit. Another highlight is the densest collection of ancient trees in the country, with over 60 towering specimens. Beyond the colorful blooms throughout the seasons, gazing up at these majestic trees also broadens the mind.
The nearby Mingchi Forest Recreation Area and century-old sacred tree groves near Qilan National Forest Recreation Area offer breathtaking scenery, making them worth a return visit. (Photo provided by Coconut Grove)
Songluo National Trail
In the Songluo Tribe of the Atayal people in Datong Township, there lies a hidden path amidst the mountains. Originally a hunting trail used by the Atayal, it was later developed and maintained by the Forestry Bureau and is now a national-level trail. The Songluo Trail does not have obvious signage, often causing it to be overlooked by general visitors. However, due to minimal human interference and the warm, humid climate, it boasts a rainforest-like natural landscape that preserves exceptionally rich biodiversity.
In particular, the Taiwanese freshwater fish known as "Ku Hua Yu" (Taiwanese gobies) can often be spotted in the Songluo Creek alongside the trail. Although their numbers once dwindled due to overfishing, local conservation efforts have gradually restored their population. The trail features no steep terrain, and along the way, there are rest pavilions and uniquely designed suspension bridges—some only as wide as a foot, creating a thrilling wire-walking-like experience.
The Songluo National Trail feels like an undisturbed paradise, leaving every visitor in awe. The area boasts rich riverside ecology, and guests can cross the creek via rope bridges, with the vibrant Songluo Creek rushing powerfully beneath their feet. (Photo provided by MoCA Editorial Team)
Yulan Tea Garden
Located in Yulan Village, Datong Township, Yulan Tea Garden sits at an altitude of about 500 to 700 meters and spans approximately 500 hectares, making it one of Yilan’s most well-known high-mountain tea gardens. Visitors can gaze across the vast slopes to see stretches of lush green tea fields, with rows of neatly arranged tea plants forming a uniquely charming green landscape. Strolling along the tea garden paths, you can fully immerse yourself in the layered fragrance of tea. From the sloped observation pavilion, you can take in the beauty of the Lanyang area, with views of the Lanyang River and the Lanyang Plain stretching out before you, offering a broad perspective that opens the heart. Looking down the slopes, the terraced tea plants present poetic lines, and enjoying tea amidst such scenic beauty adds even more delight.
The endless greenery and rich tea aroma invigorate the senses, making one feel refreshed and relaxed. A short stay here quickly reveals the charm of Yulan Tea Garden. (Photo provided by MoCA Editorial Team)
Atayal Life Museum
The Atayal Life Museum, from its architectural design to its exhibition layout, is infused with Atayal cultural elements. It preserves a wealth of historical artifacts related to the life of the Atayal people and is a great place to appreciate the beauty of Yilan’s Atayal culture. With passionate and insightful guided tours, visitors can experience the true, good, and beautiful aspects of Atayal culture through traditional handwoven textiles hanging from the ceiling, displayed artifacts, performances in the mini-theater, as well as the decorative patterns, ornaments, and totems found throughout the museum.
In addition, the museum offers traditional Atayal clothing for visitors to try on, which is a fun and immersive way to better understand the rich cultural charm of Taiwan’s Atayal people. It’s definitely worth a visit to explore in detail.
Discover the essence of Atayal culture at the Atayal Life Museum. (Photo provided by MoCA Editorial Team)
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