Lishan Scenic Area Introduction
Li Shan Scenic Area is located at the 48-kilometer mark of the Central Cross-Island Highway in central Taiwan. It connects west to Taichung, north to Yilan, east along the Central Cross-Island Highway to Hualien, and south through Dayuling and Hehuan Mountain to Wushe, Nantou. The area stretches approximately 89 kilometers from east to west and covers a total area of about 31,300 hectares. Situated at a high elevation, it boasts beautiful seasonal landscapes and abundant natural resources, particularly producing high-altitude temperate fruits and vegetables. Due to its location at the intersection of the main route of the Central Cross-Island Highway and the Yilan Branch Line, Li Shan has become a well-known high mountain scenic area in central Taiwan, and is designated as part of the "Sanshan National Scenic Area" along with Shitou Mountain Scenic Area in Miaoli and Bagua Mountain Scenic Area in Changhua. The area has an average elevation of about 1,900 meters, belongs to a temperate climate, enjoys mild weather and ample sunshine, and is famous for its high-quality local products, including fruits like peaches, pears, apples, and sweet persimmons; and vegetables such as cabbage, Chinese cabbage, and green garlic. In recent years, products like Li Shan tea, baby bok choy, tomatoes, and kiwis have also gained popularity, along with plans for tourist orchards and fruit markets to let visitors experience fruit-picking fun and enjoy fresh flavors. Because of its mountainous environment, the area offers different beautiful sights throughout the year, making it suitable for flower viewing, maple watching, and snow sports. January to April is the main flower viewing season, attracting many visitors to Li Shan during this peak time. The local population is diverse, including Hakka, Minnan, and veterans, with a special presence of Indigenous Atayal people in villages like Huanshan and Songmao. The rich ethnic culture showcases skilled weaving crafts, while the Li Shan Cultural Exhibition Hall displays the history of the Central Cross-Island Highway’s development, the natural ecology of Li Shan, and the culture of the Atayal people, providing travelers with a comprehensive understanding of the Li Shan Scenic Area. The area’s first-built Li Shan Guesthouse features a Chinese palace-style appearance and serves as a landmark on the Central Cross-Island Highway. Behind the hotel, there is an ecological trail dense with trees, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and enjoying views of the surrounding peaks.
