Zhiben National Forest Recreation Area Introduction
Zhiben National Forest Recreation Area is located in the midstream of Zhiben River, covering an area of approximately 110.8 hectares, and features a subtropical monsoon forest at an elevation of 110 to 650 meters. The diverse species of forestry, birds, and insects create a rich ecological classroom. The area offers various recreational facilities, including multiple trails and distinctive attractions such as the Monsoon Passage and Foot Massage Stream Path, making it suitable for both young and old visitors. Forest Scenic Trail: With a total length of approximately 426 meters (about 45 minutes of walking), this easy trail passes through major facilities including Wuming Taitung District, the Monsoon Passage, Aboriginal Forest Area, and Foot Massage Stream Area, making it ideal for children and the elderly. Handsome Slope Trail: Known for its steepness, this trail is approximately 827 meters long with a height difference of 180 meters, making it one of the best choices for testing physical strength and endurance. Near the end, the Thousand Banyan Trees offer a panoramic view of the Zhiben hot springs and the vast Pacific Ocean, making it a wonderful reward for completing the climb. Adventurers are welcome to challenge themselves, but please assess your physical condition carefully. Those who feel unwell or have a history of cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, or heart conditions should not attempt it. Forest Bathing Trail: This trail is approximately 1820 meters long, with a walking time of about 90 minutes. It features a gentle slope, allowing visitors to easily immerse themselves in the cypress forest and big-leafed mahogany forest while breathing deeply in nature. Qili Xiang Trail: This trail is about 1082 meters long, taking approximately 60 minutes to walk. It connects the Hanami Zhiben Herb Garden and the Forest Bathing Trail, preserving the natural landscape and blending environmental design styles. Constructed using local materials and techniques with a craftsmanship spirit, the trail follows the terrain and adopts energy-saving and carbon-reduction concepts, using local stones and fallen logs to create stone steps and slope protection, as well as drainage facilities such as cross logs and breathing wooden box water collection wells. Banyan Shade Trail: This trail measures approximately 2030 meters in length, taking about 1.5 hours to walk at an easy pace. The highest point is at approximately 421 meters elevation, providing scenic views of the Zhiben hot spring area from various angles. Along the way, you will see several century-old banyan trees adorned with beards. Must-visit attractions and facilities: Hanami Zhiben Herb Garden: This garden cultivates over 50 types of herbs and riparian plants, allowing visitors to learn about different species through explanatory signs. It also introduces mountain spring water, which flows together to form a brook, creating a habitat for small fish and shrimp. Monsoon Passage: This area features wind chimes, listening tubes, and maple leaf panels, allowing you to experience the sound of wind through the trees firsthand. Foot Massage Stream Path: Cool mountain spring water gathers on smooth pebbles, creating a forest foot bath loved by both children and adults. Soaking your feet here is not only refreshing but also beneficial for health. Located in the outskirts of Taitung City, the Zhiben Forest Recreation Area is the best place for hiking, bird watching, butterfly watching, and recreational activities, making it a great destination for family outings!
