Xiangyang National Forest Recreation Area Introduction
The Xiangyang National Forest Recreation Area has been closed since the Morakot typhoon disaster, only allowing access to the Xiangyang Trail, Xiangsong Trail, Songjing Trail, and Songtao Trail, which connect to the Jiaming Lake National Trail. To proceed to the observation platform, visitors must apply in advance for a mountain entry permit from the National Police Agency and a day return permit (or mountain hut stay approval) from the Taitung Forest District Office. For more information, please visit the recreation area's official website. The park is located in an important habitat for wildlife in Guanshan, where rare species such as the Mikado Pheasant and the Blue Pitta can be encountered. Additionally, Formosan black bears roam the area, so visitors must securely store food and kitchen waste and carry all trash back down the mountain to maintain a pristine wilderness. Xiangyang National Forest Recreation Area is situated at the boundary of Kaohsiung and Taitung, approximately 2.5 hours from Jiasian in Kaohsiung and about 1.5 hours from Guanshan in Taitung. The area, at an elevation of 2,320 meters, has a climate in the foggy forest belt, where rising air currents in the Xinwulu River area bring moisture that creates a misty and cool environment, making sea of clouds readily accessible. Upon entering Xiangyang National Forest Recreation Area, the first sight is the visitor service center, which features an exhibition room, multimedia room, and rest area. Here, visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna, forest trail introductions, and Bunun cultural insights. The rest area offers a place for guests to enjoy the stunning views of the sea of clouds and mountain scenery, although it is currently closed for renovations. The recreation area has constructed four forest trails: Xiangyang Trail, Xiangsong Trail, Songjing Trail, and Songtao Trail, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the fragrance of the mountainous greenery and grandeur of the alpine valleys. From November to January, during cold waves, the Xiangyang and Xiangsong Trails are adorned with vibrant red fallen leaves. In March to May, the Songjing Trail is lined with blooming orchid species swaying in the wind, filling the path with their delicate fragrance. The Songtao Trail features a viewing platform that offers the best vantage point for viewing Daguanshan. At the intersection of Songjing, Xiangsong, and Songtao Trails, there are remnants of the Xiangyang garrison station wall and platform built during the Japanese rule. It is worth noting that further up the Songtao Trail leads to the entrance of Jiaming Lake. In addition to its breathtaking scenery, the rich ecological environment is a significant attraction of Xiangyang. The predominant vegetation includes Taiwan Red Pine, Taiwan Incense Cedar, Taiwan Alder, and a variety of ferns. Many wildlife species inhabit the area, including Formosan Serows, Taiwan Macaques, Common Spiny Dormice, Chinese Goral, and striped squirrels. Reptiles found here include the Many-banded Krait, Red-tailed Green Whip Snake, Rhinoceros Snake, Night Snake, and others; encountering them should be done without disturbance. Butterflies are a highlight in the valleys, with common species including the Double-ring Swallowtail, Pale Purple Butterfly, Red-spotted Butterfly, and Taiwan Hummingbird Hawkmoth, among others. Their graceful flight is a stunning sight. The area is also known for its vibrant mountain birds, mainly distributed around the gaps and near Xiangyang. Notable bird species include the Gold-winged White-browed Bush Robin, Crowned Bush Robin, and various types of Tits in winter. Throughout the year, one can see the Grey-headed Flower-browed Bush Robin and other species. Near Xiangyang, notable birds include the Gold-winged White-browed Bush Robin, or various species of Warblers, Sparrows, and others; rare sightings of the Mikado Pheasant and Blue Pitta can also occur in the early mornings before human activity. Currently, Xiangyang National Forest Recreation Area is in a closed status. For detailed information, please contact Xiangyang Forest Recreation Area or visit the official website.
