Looking for a "forest bath" near Taipei? Dongyanshan National Forest Recreation Area (東眼山國家森林遊樂區) is one of Northern Taiwan’s most accessible high-altitude escapes. Its name, meaning "East Eye Mountain," comes from its unique silhouette—when viewed from afar, the mountain resembles a maiden with long hair, gazing wide-eyed toward the east.
Spanning nearly 1,000 hectares, this park is a sanctuary of towering Japanese cedar forests, mysterious cloud waterfalls, and prehistoric fossils that prove this mountain was once at the bottom of the sea.
Top 3 Trails for Every Traveler
1. The Self-Guided Trail (The Summit Route)
- Difficulty: Moderate (Approx. 2–2.5 hours loop)
- Highlight: This is the most popular path. It leads you through dense cedar groves to the 1,212-meter summit. On a clear day, the observation deck offers a stunning panoramic view of the Taipei Basin, including Taipei 101 and the Tamsui River.
2. The Forest Intellectual Trail (History & Culture)
- Difficulty: Easy (Approx. 40–60 minutes)
- Highlight: Perfect for families and history buffs. This trail features preserved logging equipment like wooden ropeways and trolleys, offering a glimpse into the area's 1950s forestry heritage.
3. The Geological Corridor (Ancient Sea Bed)
- Difficulty: Easy (Accessible)
- Highlight: Discover trace fossils left by crabs and shrimps 30 million years ago. These rippled rock formations are a geological treasure, proving the tectonic uplift that created Taiwan.
2026 Visitor Essentials: Tickets & Logistics
| Ticket Type | Price (Weekday / Weekend) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full Fare | NT$80 / NT$100 | Standard adult entry |
| Half Fare | NT$50 | Students, children (7-12), military |
| Group Ticket | NT$80 | 20+ people (all days) |
| Parking Fee | NT$100 (Cars) / NT$20 (Motorcycles) | Online tickets often include free parking |
How to Get There (The "Easy" Way)
- By Bus: Take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (506 Dongyanshan Line) from Daxi Bus Station. It runs daily and is the most convenient public transport option.
- Tip: Use an EasyCard or purchase an "All-Day Pass" for NT$120.
- By Car: It’s about a 60-minute drive from Daxi or 90 minutes from Taipei. Be aware that the parking lot often fills up by 10:00 AM on weekends.
Expert Tips for Your Visit
- The "Golden Hour": Arrive before 9:00 AM. The morning light filtering through the cedar trees is magical for photography, and the air is at its freshest.
- Afternoon Mist: Be prepared for the famous "Sea of Clouds." Clouds often roll in after 2:00 PM, turning the forest into a misty wonderland. While beautiful, visibility can drop quickly, so stay on the marked trails.
- The "Dongman" Challenge: If you are a serious hiker, the Dongman Trail connects Dongyanshan to Manyueyuan in New Taipei City. It’s a 7.5km one-way trek (approx. 4 hours) through pristine wilderness.
- Eco-Awareness: Dongyanshan is home to over 43 bird species. Keep your ears open for the distinct "dog-barking" call of the Muntjac (Barking Deer) or the screech of the White-faced Flying Squirrel at dusk.
