Chihnan Forest Recreation Area

The Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area was originally a timber production and transfer station. Upon entering the park, visitors can immediately see historical traces of past logging operations. The park features a Forestry Exhibition Hall, offering insights into the development of the forestry industry in the Chihnan area from ancient times to the present. Along the forest trails, various early logging industrial machinery, such as locomotives, timber cableways, and log skidders, are preserved and displayed. These antique logging and sawmilling machines are well-preserved and exhibited within the forest, accompanied by interpretive signs. Particularly noteworthy is the passenger car facility of the timber cableway (also known as 'Liulong' or gondola), which was one of the important means of transport for personnel to Mugua Mountain, located at an elevation of 2,500 meters. Additionally, at the highest point of the park, the Forestry Bureau erected a memorial monument to honor the pioneers who dedicated their lives to the development of the forestry industry. This monument also serves as the highest vantage point in the Chihnan area, offering panoramic views of the beautiful Liyu Lake surrounded by mountains. The Bung-Bung Train (currently for static display only) was an important tool during the heyday of early logging operations. Timber cut from various forest compartments was gathered, loaded onto carts, and transported by the Bung-Bung Train to what is now the Chihnan Recreation Area for storage, before being transferred elsewhere. The Bung-Bung Train was a crucial piece of equipment for timber transport and also an important means for workers to travel up and down the mountain. The cableway (Liulong/gondola) was the most economical and practical timber transport equipment in the early logging industry. Its passenger car was an important means of transport for workers and supplies. Covered in historical marks, it seems to whisper tales of a glorious past in the mountain forests. Currently, only the first section of the cableway remains in the park. Chihnan is the only place in Taiwan where a 'Liulong' of that era can still be seen, showcasing its past grandeur. Forestry Exhibition Hall: Upon entering the forest recreation area, visitors first arrive at the 'Forestry Exhibition Hall.' The service counter provides information to visitors, and multimedia presentations, including an introduction to the recreation area, are adjusted according to visitor needs. The first floor introduces the forest's varying altitudes, forest types, flora and fauna ecology, and includes interactive games for families. The second floor primarily showcases the multi-functional uses of forests. From the second floor of the exhibition hall, visitors can also enjoy a distant view of Liyu Lake. Logging Equipment Exhibition Hall: This hall was originally the management center for the grass-sliding field. After renovations were completed in 2003, it opened to the public. The hall displays various tools used in different stages of Taiwan's forestry development, including felling, log processing, skidding, loading, and transportation, such as log sleds, hand saws, pickaxes, and axes. Through old photographs, visitors can review the history of Taiwan's forestry development and appreciate the hardships faced by early loggers. Memorial Monument: The Forestry Bureau specially erected this memorial monument to commemorate the pioneers who sacrificed and contributed to the development of the forestry industry. This spot is also the highest point in the Chihnan area, offering a panoramic view of Liyu Lake surrounded by mountains from the monument. Seed Gashapon: Experience the fun and diverse seed gashapon 'QQ Snowman and Night Owl Gashapon.' Visitors are welcome to try their luck at Chihnan and get a unique seed artwork. The gashapon results come in two types: finished products and semi-finished DIY kits, both of which can be freely chosen. It is highly recommended for parents and children to participate together. Night Firefly Viewing: The Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area boasts an unpolluted environment and sufficient humidity, fostering abundant firefly resources. The 'Dark-winged Firefly' is the most common firefly in Chihnan and a major species for firefly viewing in Taiwan. During the transition period between spring and summer, these vibrant dark-winged fireflies dance through the Chihnan mountain forests, carrying their natural lanterns, painting the park's nights with a fluorescent green glow.