Sun Link Sea (Shanlinxi) | Taiwan’s Misty Paradise for Flower Lovers & Hikers

Perched at an altitude of 1,600 meters, Sun Link Sea Forest and Nature Resort (杉林溪森林生態渡假園區) is Nantou’s ultimate year-round retreat. Known for its surreal mountain mists, dramatic waterfalls, and a rotating calendar of world-class floral displays, it offers a "healing" escape from the city heat with an average summer temperature of just 20°C.


2026 Floral Calendar: What’s Blooming?

Sun Link Sea is famous for its "Six Famous Flowers." Here is the schedule for 2026:

MonthFlower SeasonBest Spot
Jan – FebTulipsFlower Center (Indoor/Outdoor)
Feb – MarchCherry BlossomsCherry Blossom Trail (Riverside)
April – MayPeoniesMedicinal Garden
May – AugHydrangeasHydrangea Trail (Over 100k blooms)
Nov – DecDawn Redwoods / MaplesFlower Center & Riverside

Pro Tip: In March 2026, the white Wushe Cherry Blossoms and pink Camellia Cherries are creating a "Pink Paradise in the Mist" along the riverbanks.


Top Must-See Attractions

1. Songlong Rock Waterfall (松瀧岩瀑布)

Often called the "Most Beautiful Waterfall in Central Taiwan," this landmark features a massive natural cave arch. You can walk along the path inside the cave, behind the curtain of falling water, for a truly immersive experience.

2. The Heaven and Earth Eyes (天地眼)

The final destination of many hikers, these two natural holes in a giant rock wall resemble a pair of eyes watching over the forest. Legend says they can see through the hearts of visitors!

3. Qinglong Waterfall (青龍瀑布)

A 116-meter tall ribbon of water that plunges into a deep gorge. On foggy days, the waterfall looks like a white dragon emerging from the clouds.


Logistics & 2026 Ticket Info

FeatureDetails
Ticket PriceNT$350 (Adults) / NT$250 (Students/Youth)
Parking FeeNT$100 (Cars) / NT$50 (Motorcycles)
Opening Hours07:00 AM – 09:00 PM (Trails open 24h for guests)
Shuttle BusNT$40 (One way) / Free for in-house hotel guests

How to Get There (The Twelve Zodiac Bends)

The drive up involves the famous Twelve Zodiac Bends—12 sharp 180-degree turns named after the Chinese zodiac signs.

  • From Taichung: Take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (6883 Xitou Line) to Xitou, then transfer to the 6871 or 6277 bus to Sun Link Sea.
  • Direct Tour: Many travelers prefer the 9-hour Sun Link Sea & Monster Village Day Tour from Taichung for ease of transport.

Where to Stay: Inside the Park

Staying inside the park allows you to experience the "Misty Morning" before the day-trippers arrive.

  • Sun Link Sea Hotel (杉林溪大飯店): The most modern option with 129 rooms and the best public facilities.
  • Theme Mansion (主題會館): Located right next to the shuttle bus station, offering great convenience for seniors.
  • Wooden Cottages (小木屋): Hidden among the trees for the ultimate "Forest Cabin" vibe.

Expert Tips for Your Visit

  • Avoid the Fog: The mountain usually fogs up after 2:00 PM. Aim to reach the Songlong Waterfall early in the morning for clear photos.
  • Dress in Layers: Even in summer, the morning and night temperatures can drop to 15°C. Bring a windbreaker or a light down jacket.
  • The "Shuttle Hack": Take the shuttle bus UP to the Songlong Waterfall first, then walk the downhill trails (like the Chunlin Trail) back toward the hotel area to save your knees.
  • Combine with "Forget-Me-Not Forest": The surreal Wangyou Forest (忘憂森林) is located just outside the park entrance and is a must-visit for photographers (best visited June–October for water reflections).

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