Lienhuachih Research Center, Forestry Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture

**Center Introduction:** The Lienhuachih Research Center was established on April 23, 1918 (Year 7 of the Republic), originally named the 'Medicinal Plant Cultivation Experimental Site,' located in Wucheng Village, Yuchi Township, Nantou County. In 1933 (Year 22 of the Republic), it was renamed the 'Lienhuachih Experimental Site'; in 1943 (Year 32 of the Republic), it was renamed the 'Lienhuachih Sub-branch'; after Taiwan's retrocession in 1945 (Year 34 of the Republic), it was officially named the 'Lienhuachih Branch of the Taiwan Forestry Research Institute'; in 1949 (Year 38 of the Republic), it was transferred to the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, Taiwan Provincial Government; in 1999 (Year 88 of the Republic), it was renamed the 'Lienhuachih Branch' of the Taiwan Forestry Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan; in 2002 (Year 91 of the Republic), it was renamed the 'Lienhuachih Research Center' of the Taiwan Forestry Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan; and in 2023 (Year 112 of the Republic), it was renamed the 'Lienhuachih Research Center, Forestry Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture,' its current designation. **Central Taiwan Forest Ecology and Natural Resource Conservation:** The Lienhuachih Experimental Forest boasts a rich diversity of biological species. Current surveys of flora and fauna within the area reveal 177 families, 561 genera, and 879 species of higher plants, comprising 589 native species and 290 introduced species. There are also 78 species of wild birds. Additionally, surveys have identified 24 species of frogs (amphibians), 10 species of lizards, 11 species of reptiles, 20 species of mammals, and various insects such as 131 species of butterflies, 524 species of moths, 14 species of fireflies, 50 species of dragonflies, 24 species of beetles, and approximately 150 species of true bugs (Hemiptera); as well as about 384 species of large fungi. Therefore, the center conducts long-term monitoring and recording of animal and plant images and soundscapes within the experimental forest and implements comprehensive conservation and maintenance operations. **Forest and Garden Therapy:** In recent years, Lienhuachih has been dedicated to developing 'forest and garden therapy,' which utilizes the center's high-quality forest environment. This involves combining local specialties such as black tea, honey, and mushrooms, and integrating horticultural therapy courses to design a series of experiential activities that promote physical, mental, and spiritual balance, establishing a unique therapeutic leisure area. The center also trains local residents to become therapy guides, aiming to increase employment opportunities in mountain villages and achieve a balance between ecology, production, and lifestyle. **Visiting Information:** The nature park trails are open all day. For visits to the exhibition hall and center facilities, group tours, or natural education curriculum development, please contact the center in advance. General recommended visiting hours are 09:00–17:00.