Hutoushan / Lalashan

Lalashan, also known as Hutoushan, is a sanctuary for nature lovers in northern Taiwan. The primary draw is the Lalashan Forest Reserve, home to one of Asia's largest stands of ancient red cypress trees. Some of these giants are over 2,000 years old, standing majestically against the often-misty skyline. Visitors flock here to escape the urban heat and hike along well-maintained wooden boardwalks that weave through these forest elders, offering a nearly spiritual connection to nature. Beyond its ancient flora, the region is renowned for its agriculture, particularly the succulent peaches harvested in summer. The local Atayal indigenous culture adds a rich layer to the experience, with many lodges and eateries operated by tribal members. Gastronomy enthusiasts should try dishes seasoned with wild mountain spices and the famous Lalashan high-mountain tea, known for its distinct floral notes. Reaching Lalashan is best done by car via the Northern Cross-Island Highway, one of Taiwan’s most scenic mountain drives. The best time to visit is spring for cherry and peach blossoms, or summer for the fruit harvest and cool mountain breezes. In autumn, the changing maple leaves paint the slopes in spirited shades of red and gold.

Nearby cities

New Taipei City

The most populous city in Taiwan, completely enclosing the capital Taipei.

Wulai

A mountainous village famous for its natural hot springs, towering waterfalls, and indigenous Atayal culture.

Beitou

Taipei's famous hot spring district, known for its sulfurous steam and historical Japanese influences.

Smangus

A remote Atayal tribal village known as 'God's Village', famous for its giant trees and communal lifestyle.

Taoyuan

A major industrial city in the northwest, home to Taiwan's main international airport.

Baishawan

A stunning white sand beach on the north coast, perfect for water sports and seaside relaxation.

History & landmarks

Yehliu Geopark

A geological park on the north coast, famous for its unusual rock formations.

Jiufen Old Street

A charming mountain town that was once a center for gold mining, now famous for its narrow alleys and traditional teahouses.

Maokong Gondola

A cable car system in Taipei that takes visitors up to the tea-growing areas of Maokong, home to many traditional teahouses.

Taipei 101

An iconic skyscraper that was once the tallest building in the world, featuring a distinctive pagoda-inspired design.

Shilin Night Market

The largest and most famous night market in Taipei, a hub for local street food and shopping.

Raohe Street Night Market

One of the oldest night markets in Taipei, known for its traditional dishes and the imposing gate at its entrance.

National Palace Museum

A world-renowned museum housing one of the largest collections of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks.

Yangmingshan National Park

A volcanic national park right outside Taipei, known for its hot springs, fumaroles, and cherry blossoms blooming in spring.

Nature

Tamsui River

The Tamsui River flows through the Taipei metropolitan area and empties into the Taiwan Strait in the northwest of the island.

Laomei Green Reef

A coastal formation with volcanic trenches covered in green algae during spring.

More places

Lin Family Mansion and Garden

One of the best-preserved examples of traditional Chinese architecture and gardening in Taiwan.

Port of Taipei

A modern seaport in Bali District designed to relieve congestion at the Port of Keelung.

Fort San Domingo

Originally built by the Spanish and later used by various colonial powers, it reflects Taiwan's complex history.

Hobe Fort

A late 19th-century fort in Tamsui that defended the mouth of the Tamsui River.

Pingxi Coal Mine

Formerly Taiwan's largest coal mine, which shaped the industrial development of the region.

Jinguashi Gold Mine

One of the largest gold and copper mines in Asia during the Japanese colonial era.

Remains of the Thirteen Levels

The massive ruins of a former copper and gold smelting plant, often referred to as the Machu Picchu of Taiwan.

Taipingshan

A densely forested mountain that was formerly a major center for the logging industry.