South link mountain line
Southern Cross-Island Highway starts at Haiduan Township and ends at Guanshan Township, connecting southern Taiwan’s eastern and western regions. Taking a road trip here can be a quite fascinating experience because by driving along the highway, travelers can see the magnificent mountain landscape and so many green plants from broadleaf forests to needle-leaf forests. The mountain is also rich in animal species. People who love being out in nature must visit here.
Give yourself a little forest vacation on your next break. Besides getting away from the hustle and bustle, you can also get the chance to purify your soul. Xiangyang National Forest Recreation Area is located in Haiduan Township of Taitung County. The park is home to a rich and diverse natural ecosystem, a dense forest, and a cool sanctuary during the hot summer months. The recreation area is widely known among avid mountain climbers as it’s on the path to Sancha Mountain, Xiangyang Mountain, and Jiaming Lake. Many hikers come to the Xiangyang National Forest Recreation Area for a good walk and a view of the sea of clouds. Bird watching is also a popular activity at the park.
The recreation area has well-planned pathways. The five forest pathways (Xiangyang, Xiangsong, Songjing, Songtao, and Songyang Pathway) and the Cypress Forest pathway all have different challenges so that guests can select suitable routes based on their physique and schedule. The forests are mostly filled with Pinus Taiwanensis and Chamaecyparis Formosensis trees. The tall forest forms a natural barrier that will make you feel like you are in a wonderland surrounded by greenery. Inhale deeply and enjoy the fresh and crisp air. There is also an array of wildlife in the park. You may run into a Taiwan serow, Formosan rock macaque, Chinese muntjac, or other animals on your hike. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a rare Mikado pheasant or a Taiwan blue pheasant. The park has a tourist service center where guests can learn about the animals and plants that can be found within the forest. There is even a shower room so guests can rinse away their fatigue and have a comfortable trip back home. （Photo credit: IG@ed_5940）
Phone: 0912-103376 (Recreation Area); 0912-103375 (Jiaming Lake National Trails Entrance Service Station)
- Opening Time: 08:00-17:00
- Ticket Price: Free entrance (The Recreation Area is currently closed, only the Jiaming Lake National Trails are open. Please apply for a Mountain Entry Permit to enter the Mountain)
