Your Ultimate Guide to Taiwan’s Cherry Blossoms
Spring brings forth Taiwan’s vibrant cherry blossoms, turning the island into a haven for nature lovers. With its diverse landscapes and rich culture, Taiwan offers numerous breathtaking spots to witness these ephemeral blooms. Unlike Japan’s cherry blossom season which happens between April and May, Taiwan’s cherry blossom season takes place earlier in the year, usually between February and March.
From the misty Alishan mountains to Taipei’s lively streets, here’s your go-to guide for experiencing the best of Taiwan’s cherry blossoms in 2024.
Northern Taiwan — Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu
Wuji Tianyuan Temple, New Taipei
Wuji Tianyuan Temple offers stunning cherry blossom views, with different cherry tree species painting the area in soft hues of pink and white. The temple’s 200-metre-tall pagoda sits amidst the blossoms, creating a charming sight. Visit between late February and April to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom, and the best part? Entrance to the temple is free!
How to get there:
Take the MRT Red Line (Tamsui – Xiangshan) towards Tamsui. At MRT Tamsui Station, board bus 875, 876, or 877 and alight at Tianyuan Temple.
Neihu LOHAS Park, Taipei
Neihu LOHAS Park, near the Neigou River, is a popular spot for picnics and stunning cherry blossom views, especially at night when they’re lit up. The park’s tranquil setting becomes magical as the illuminated cherry blossoms create a mesmerising ambiance.
How to get there:
By train: From Donghu Station, it’s a 10-minute walk.
By bus: Alight at Donghu Community or Donghu Elementary School bus stops, then walk 2-5 minutes to the park. Look for bus numbers 53, 281, 287, 630, 646, S1, BR19, BL12, BL51, 203, 284, 629, 677, 711, 896, 903, BL36, BR19, R2, and Neihu Line.
Yangmingshan National Park, Taipei
Visit the Flower Clock in Yangmingshan National Park for a spectacular display of cherry blossoms. These trees are spread across the park, alongside other attractions like ponds and historic sites. While the Yangmingshan Flower Festival runs from 7 Feb to 17 Mar, the best time to see cherry blossoms is usually the last week of February and the first week of March.
You can also find cherry blossoms at nearby spots like the park opposite the Yangmingshan National Park Tourist Information Center, and Qianshan Park in Yangmingshan village.
How to get there:
Head to Taipei Main Station, then catch Royal Bus 1717 bound for Jinshan. Alight at the Yangmingshan National Park Administration stop.
Other Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Northern Taiwan:
- Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall
- Sun Yat Sen Memorial
- Elephant Mountain Trail
- Big Bear Cherry Blossom Forest
- Lala Mountain Loving Farm
- Shoushanyan Guanyin Temple
- Smangus
- Wulai
Spring Festivals:
- LOHAS Cherry Blossom Festival (26 Jan to 29 Feb)
- Yangmingshan Flower Festival (2 Feb to 17 Mar)
Tours Available:
- Taipei Yangmingshan Cherry Blossom Day Tour: ~S$85/pax
- Taichung: Wuling Farm One-Day Tour from Taipei: From ~S$64/pax
- Taipei: Beitou and Yangmingshan One-Day Tour: ~S$94/pax
Central Taiwan — Taichung and Nantou
Wuling Farm, Taichung
Exploring Wuling Farm is a must for experiencing Taiwan’s natural beauty. With vast fields, hiking trails, and thousands of cherry blossom trees, it’s a dreamy destination. While closer to Taichung, it’s great for a day trip from Taipei too. Blossoms peak from early to late February — ideal for a romantic getaway.
How to get there:
To reach Wuling Farm from Taipei, take the train to Yilan Station, then switch to Kuo-Kuang Bus 1751. Get off at the Wuling Farm stop. Alternatively, you can also take Kuo-Kuang Bus 1764 from Luodong Station to reach Wuling Farm.
Sun Moon Lake, Nantou
Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest natural lake, offers a stunning view of cherry blossoms from early February to March. For a full experience, ride the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway for panoramic views of cherry trees and surrounding mountains. Nearby attractions include the Shuishang Bikeway, Wenwu Temple, Longfeng Temple, Ci En Pagoda, and Yongjie Bridge.
How to get there:
Take the train to Yilan Railway Station, then switch to Kuo-Kuang Bus 1751. Alight at Wuling Farm stop. Alternatively, you can disembark at Luodong Railway Station, then take Kuo-Kuang Bus 1764 to Wuling Farm stop.
Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village, Nantou
Experience Taiwan’s largest cherry blossom festival from early February to early March at the Formosan Cherry Blossom Festival with Japanese-inspired performances, night dance festivals, illuminated cherry trees and glimpse into Taiwan’s indigenous culture as well as the amusement park with boat rides, roller coasters, gyro drops and other rides.
How to get there:
To reach the village from Taichung Railway Station, simply board the Nantou Bus (Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Bus) heading to Sun Moon Lake. This bus route stops directly at the village.
Other Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Central Taiwan:
- WELE Cherry Blossom Park
- Taian Police Station
- National Chi Nan University
Spring Festivals:
- Sun Moon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival
- Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Cherry Blossom Festival
- Chi Nan University Cherry Blossom Festival
Tours Available:
- Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Ticket in Nantou: ~S$33/pax
- Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village Day Trip (From Taichung): ~S$97/pax
Eastern Taiwan — Hualien, Yilan, and Taitung
Mingchi National Forest Recreation Area, Yilan
Yilan County, a little over two hours from Taipei, is often less crowded than other destinations. At Mingchi National Forest Recreation Area, enjoy stunning views enhanced by pink cherry blossoms in early spring. Don’t miss the chance to hike to Mingchi Lake and spot the rare white cherry blossoms along the way.
How to get there:
From National Freeway 5, take the Luodong Interchange exit onto County Highway 191, then onto Provincial Highway 7C, and finally exit at Provincial Highway 7 (Northern Cross-Island Highway).
Taroko National Park, Hualien
Famed for its 19-kilometre gorge and scenic trails along the Liwu River, Taroko National Park is a nature lover’s haven. During spring, cherry blossoms bloom near the Tian Siang Visitor Center, adding a touch of pink to the mountain landscape. Visit from early January to February to catch them in full bloom.
How to get there:
To fully explore Taroko National Park, it’s best to book a private car as public transportation is limited in the area.
Yu-Shan Theological College and Seminary, Hualien
In Eastern Taiwan near Liyu Lake, Yu-Shan Theological College and Seminary is a hidden gem that boasts 5,000 cherry trees blooming from January to March. Visitors flock to see Japanese cherry, double-flowered cherry, and Taiwan’s native white cherry. The college’s red and white buildings add charm, with pathways lined by cherry trees. Enjoy panoramic views of Liyu Lake from the seminary steps.
How to get there:
Take bus 1139 from Shoufeng Train Station to Hualien Bus Station.
Other Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Eastern Taiwan:
- Mingchi National Forest Recreation Area
- Yu-Shan Theological College and Seminary
- Shuhu Cherry Blossoms Trail
- Taimali Qingshan Farm
- Chingshan Farm
Southern Taiwan — Chiayi and Kaohsiung
Alishan National Forest Recreational Area, Chiayi
Ride the vintage trains at Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, one of Taiwan’s largest cherry blossom viewing spots with over 19,000 cherry trees. The picturesque landscapes and vibrant blooms create an enchanting atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the world. Peak cherry blossom season typically occurs in March and April, offering visitors a spectacular display of nature’s beauty.
How to get there:
You can easily reach Alishan National Forest Recreation Area by taking the Nantou Bus (Taiwan Tourist Shuttle) from Sun Moon Lake.
Hanshini Forest Recreational Area, Chiayi
Just over an hour’s drive from Alishan, you can take a cherry blossom photoshoot at Hanshini Forest Recreational Area from mid-March to mid-April. With a Tai Chi pavilion surrounded by white cherry blossoms, it’s perfect for stunning pictures. Explore and find other cherry blossom varieties, plus enjoy a meal with a mountain view at the on-site restaurant.
How to get there:
To reach Alishan, you can take the THSR to Chiayi Station and transfer to either Alishan Route A 7329 or Alishan Route A 7329A via Fenqihu.
Alternatively, opt for the TRA to Chiayi Station and transfer to Alishan Route B 7322C or Alishan Route B 7322D via Fenqihu. Another possibility is to take the TRA to Chiayi Station and then transfer to Chaiyi County Bus 7322 or 7322A via Fenqihu.
Baoshanerjituanyinghua Park, Kaohsiung
Known as the “Harbour Capital of Taiwan,” you’ll find both city buzz and seaside charm. It’s a great spot to start your cherry blossom adventure. A two-hour drive from Kaohsiung is the Baoshanerjituanyinghua Park, where thousands of cherry blossom trees bloom from January to February. Take a relaxed walk or hike through the park’s trails and enjoy the stunning scenery.
How to get there:
Since Baoshanerjituanyinghua Park is in a mountainous area, the fastest way to get there is by car.
All Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Southern Taiwan:
- Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
- Baoshanerjituanyinghua Park Park
- Hanshini Forest Recreational Area
Spring Festivals:
- Alishan Cherry Blossom Festival
Tours Available:
- Chiayi: Alishan Mountain Discovery Journey from Kaohsiung: ~S$96/pax
- Chiayi: Alishan Day Tour & Multi-Day Tour: From ~S$85/pax
Taiwan: A Top Destination for Singaporeans to Experience Cherry Blossoms
Overall, Taiwan offers countless breathtaking spots to witness the cherry blossom season with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
Whether exploring the iconic landmarks in northern Taiwan, venturing through the scenic landscapes of central Taiwan, or discovering the hidden gems of eastern and southern Taiwan, each destination promises enchanting cherry blossom vistas and memorable adventures.
Cover image via @puyaters29 and @akosirevo
