Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area

The 'bong-bong' train, hot springs, alpine lakes, giant tree forests, and the national treasure Taiwan Beech have all paved the long and winding historical path of the Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area, spanning over a century. Taipingshan was formerly known as 'Miannao,' which means 'lush and verdant' in the Atayal language. In 1914, the Japanese first conducted a resource survey, and in 1915, they decided to develop the area. The 'Taiwan Nichinichi Shimpo' reported on July 28, 1936: 'The name Taipingshan was a direct translation of the indigenous language by Chief Engineer Nakazato before the current office was relocated. It also signifies that peace had returned to the land after Governor-General Sakuma's five-year pacification campaign concluded.' Therefore, 'Peace Under Heaven' is the true origin of the place name Taipingshan, and the namer was precisely the exploration pioneer Nakazato Tadashi. Taipingshan, at an altitude of 2000 meters, is a forestry legend second only to Alishan. In 1915, the Japanese began logging operations here. Later, the Nationalist Government took over, and it became Taiwan's largest logging station. Finally, in 1983, it was transformed into a recreation area, leaving behind precious relics such as the Jianqing Historic Trail and the 'bong-bong' train. Visitors can stroll through the primeval forest behind Zhen'an Temple, letting their thoughts soar back to the era when giant trees covered the mountains. Driving along the Cueifong Scenic Road, where Taiwan macaques, Mikado pheasants, and other animals are often spotted, the journey culminates at Cueifong Lake, Taiwan's largest alpine lake, situated at an altitude of 1840 meters. On the opposite bank is the home of the national treasure Taiwan Beech, and in autumn, visitors can admire the dazzling golden hues covering the mountains along the 4-kilometer trail. Jiuzhize Hot Spring, not far from the toll booth, is a well-known carbonic acid spring and a major highlight of the area. Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area is definitely the top choice for nature lovers visiting Yilan.