Plizio Visual Lab

Basianshan Forest

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Forest

Weather…

Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area in Taichung County was historically one of Taiwan's three premier logging centers during the Japanese colonial era. Its name is derived from the height of Mt. Basian, which stands at approximately 8,000 Japanese feet (Baxian). Located at the confluence of the Shiwen and Jiahou rivers, the area is celebrated for its crystal-clear mountain streams and diverse forests of cypress, pine, and bamboo. Commercial forestry commenced here in 1915, leaving behind historical relics such as old railway beds and Shinto shrine ruins. Today, Basianshan is a haven for birdwatchers, providing a sanctuary for rare species like the Swinhoe's pheasant and Taiwan blue magpie. The area is also noted for its animated flora, particularly the cherry blossoms that draw crowds in early spring. The spring water of Basianshan is regarded as some of the purest in Taiwan, highly coveted by tea connoisseurs. Hiking trails wind through various altitudinal zones, offering a cool respite from the summer heat of the lowlands. It remains a key site for environmental education and high-quality ecotourism in central Taiwan.

Location: Taiwan
Top sights: Sacred Tree · Baxianshan · Dongbaxianshan
Nearby: Wushe (17 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	11	12	14	17	20	21	22	21	20	18	15	12
Rain mm	75	69	99	114	261	295	210	327	287	130	106	73

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Located in Taichung City, it is accessible via well-maintained mountain roads. The main recreation area serves as the gateway to the trailheads.

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Best season

Pleasant year-round, but autumn and spring offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summers are lush but often humid with afternoon thunderstorms.

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Terrain & paths

Features a mix of paved walking paths and steep dirt trails winding through dense bamboo forests. Remnants of old logging railways dot the area.

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What to bring

Standard hiking attire, comfortable walking shoes with good grip, and a light rain jacket are recommended. Trekking poles help on steep sections.

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Parking

A large, official parking lot is provided within the forest recreation area for a small fee, offering safe parking directly at the main trails.

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Safety

Stick to marked trails, as the dense forest can easily be disorienting. Watch for slippery moss-covered rocks and occasional venomous snakes.

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Time needed

Casual visitors usually spend three to four hours walking the main accessible paths. Dedicated hikers can easily spend a full day exploring trails.

Geography

Coordinates

24.20520, 121.01190

Facts

Established as a major logging station in 1915.
Mt. Basian rises to an elevation of 2,366 meters.
Name signifies 'Eight Immortals' in Japanese measurement.
Known for some of the highest-quality spring water in Taiwan.
Home to a significant population of Swinhoe's pheasants.
The area features unique Shinto shrine ruins from the colonial era.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Wushe17 km · NEExplore →

Qingjing Farm18 km · NEExplore →

Lushan Hot Spring22 km · NEExplore →

Sun Moon Lake23 km · SEExplore →

Hsinshe (Xinshe)24 km · SExplore →

Lion's Head Mountain25 km · WExplore →

Fushoushan Farm26 km · NExplore →

Mingtan Pumped Storage Hydro Power Plant26 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Basianshan Forest (6)

Sacred Tree 📍 landmark

This massive, old tree trunk in the middle of the forest is admired as an impressive natural wonder.

Baxianshan 🌿 nature

This significant mountain peak is surrounded by extensive forests and was historically a major center for logging.

Dongbaxianshan🌿 nature

The eastern sub-peak of Baxianshan has adventurous hikers dense undergrowth trails and steep ascents.

Liming🏺 historical

The dilapidated remains of old structures at this site recall the former settlement and use of the forest.

Guishan🌿 nature

A mountain peak covered in lush greenery that features climbers an intense experience in the rugged Taiwanese nature.

Xugeqiu🏺 historical

Hidden among the trees, these stone ruins bear witness to long-abandoned settlements in the region.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How difficult is hiking in the Basianshan Forest?

Difficulty ranges from easy to moderate, suitable for all fitness levels.

Is there accommodation inside the forest?

Yes, there is a forest lodge and camping options for visitors.

When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms?

Cherry blossoms typically peak in February and March.

Is there an entry fee?

Yes, the forest is a recreational area that requires an entry fee.

Are there picnic areas?

Yes, there are designated areas where you can eat in nature.

Basianshan Forest: where is it located?

Basianshan Forest is located in Taiwan.

Basianshan Forest: what is there to see?

Highlights include Sacred Tree, Baxianshan, Dongbaxianshan.

Basianshan Forest: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.

Basianshan Forest: why is it worth visiting?

Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area in Taichung County was historically one of Taiwan's three premier logging centers during the Japanese colonial era.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Basianshan Forest

Best time to visit & climate