Text by MOOK Scenic Spots House, compiled and reported
When clouds and mist gather densely, they surge like ocean waves, creating an overwhelming, majestic spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. Loved by photographers and often a delightful surprise for hikers and campers alike, dramatic cloud seas can appear whenever weather changes sweep through mountain peaks. The period from November to March is when they are most likely to form. Catching the last whispers of early spring, we introduce popular IG cloud sea viewing spots to explore more of Taiwan’s untamed beauty.
The cloud sea at Hehuanshan has long been a timeless beauty for photography enthusiasts. (Photo provided by l_l_ll_l.1998)
1.Dingshihzhao
Located near No. 6, Shizhao, Zhushan Township, on the Alishan Highway in Chiayi, Dingshihzhao transforms in cold weather as rolling cloud seas and lights refract through the mist, producing a stunning, translucent, iridescent glow—like colored glass—creating a magnificent scene. Especially when mountain peaks emerge, the flowing cloud cascades resemble waterfalls, forming a unique earthly paradise.
Amidst the surging cloud sea, mountain peaks emerge, as if standing before a majestic waterfall at the edge of the world. (Photo provided by foolish_lin)
2.Mountain Folk
Xinfeng Township in Hsinchu boasts a rich natural environment, ethnic culture, and historical sites. Its Mountain Folk Farm is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. Every late winter to early spring, pink Fujisakura blossoms blanket the tea terrace fields, complemented by the rolling cloud seas during sunrise and sunset. This draws countless visitors who rise early and wait patiently for these dreamlike sights.
The pink cherry blossoms of late winter to early spring, paired with billowing cloud seas, create a utopian paradise-like view. (Photo provided by imma_pon)
3.Golden Dragon Mountain
Situated between Sun Moon Lake and Puli in Nantou, Golden Dragon Mountain features undulating hills and abundant moisture, often cloaked in thick fog. At night, the city lights refract through the mist, casting a stunning, glassy glow that leaves a deep impression. The mountain’s early morning light is also refreshingly beautiful, making it a popular spot to greet the New Year’s first dawn every January 1st.
The nocturnal glassy glow of Golden Dragon Mountain’s cloud sea refracts beautiful streams of light, reflecting the charm of the Sun Moon Lake township. (Photo provided by jun753753)
4.Pinglin Nanshan Temple & Shiding
Pinglin in New Taipei is a key production area for Wenshan Pouchong tea, known for its simple tea village culture and the artistic beauty of its mountain town, earning it the reputation of Taipei’s backyard garden. Nanshan Temple in Pinglin, located between Taipei and Yilan and not far from the Xueshan Tunnel, is a favorite cloud sea photography spot. The nearby Shiding also offers cloud sea views that have many admirers.
Golden-hued clouds drift over tea plantations, offering a retro and rustic mountain-town vibe, much like Pinglin. (Photo provided by shengkai_travel)
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