Live Your Best Lives
Explore the lush forests, hike the scenic trails, and visit the Xitou Sky Walk, a suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the forest. You can also enjoy the educational exhibits about local flora and fauna, visit the Taiwan Endemic Species Research Institute, and experience the beautiful natural surroundings.
Located at the foot of Fenghuang Mountain in Lugu Township, Nantou County, Xitou Nature Park is part of the National Taiwan University College of Agriculture's experimental forest. With its cool climate year-round, the Xitou Nature Education Park attracts visitors year-round. Besides enjoying forest bathing, the park is home to sixty to seventy species of birds, making it a natural bird park.
One of the most famous attractions here is the sacred red cypress tree, nestled within a massive rock. Its hollow, decayed interior yet vibrant and full of life is truly breathtaking. Along the forest path leading to the sacred tree lies a half-century-old cedar forest, its canopy remarkably well-preserved. There's also a canopy observation skywalk, approximately 180 meters long, reaching a peak over 20 meters above the ground (equivalent to a seven-story building), offering a truly remarkable outdoor experience.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, with the best cool climate in summer
university pool
Named after the fact that Xitou is affiliated with National Taiwan University, the pond boasts a sculpted Gonglie Bamboo Bridge, which sways from side to side as light mist occasionally drifts overhead, creating a dreamlike experience. The Mengzong Bamboo Forest is renowned for its beautiful landscape and tranquil atmosphere. Hidden within the bamboo grove is the "Zhulu," once Chiang Kai-shek's residence, now locked and closed to the public.
Xitou Sacred Tree
It has a history of over 2,800 years, is 46 meters high and 16 meters in circumference. It is a living giant red cypress tree. The middle of the tree is hollow due to the erosion of decay fungi. Because it was not economically valuable when it was felled, it has been preserved to this day and has become a sacred tree for people to appreciate.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
NT$200/adult
7:00-17:00, closed on holidays;
Sky Corridor Opening Hours: 8:00-17:00
Xitou Nature Education Park is dedicated to educating visitors about Taiwan's unique biodiversity, especially its indigenous plant species. It’s also home to the Taiwan Endemic Species Research Institute, which plays a key role in the conservation of native species.
The park is located in Nantou County, Taiwan, near the village of Xitou. You can take a bus or taxi from Nantou City. Private transportation is recommended for convenience, as the park is located on a mountain.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are on weekdays or early mornings during weekends to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately NT$100 per adult. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, but for convenience, it’s recommended to check online platforms for any special promotions or ticket options during peak seasons.
Tickets are not required to be booked in advance, but it’s recommended to book during peak seasons to avoid long waits. A few days in advance is sufficient.
You will need about 3 to 4 hours to fully explore the park, including the hiking trails, educational exhibits, and scenic spots like the Sky Walk.
Must-see highlights include the Xitou Sky Walk, the Taiwan Endemic Species Research Institute, the natural forest trails, and the various educational displays about the region's biodiversity.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin Chinese. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, may also be available for self-guided tours.
The best photography spots include the Xitou Sky Walk, the forest trails, and various overlooks on the mountain trails where you can capture panoramic shots of the lush greenery and the surrounding mountains.
Start with a visit to the Taiwan Endemic Species Research Institute to understand the park’s mission. Then, hike the forest trails, followed by the Sky Walk for scenic views. Finish your visit by exploring the educational exhibits on local flora and fauna.
The park does not offer night visits or light shows. It is best visited during the day for its natural beauty and educational tours.
The park can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or in the early morning hours.
The park is equipped with toilets, rest areas, and several food stalls offering local snacks. There are also souvenir shops selling nature-themed items and educational materials.
The park is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and smooth paths for easy movement. Some of the trails may be challenging for elderly visitors, but there are easier paths available for children and those with limited mobility.
Cash is accepted, but cards and mobile payments are also widely accepted at most shops and restaurants within the park.
There are a few small restaurants and cafes inside the park offering Taiwanese snacks and meals. Nearby, there are more dining options in the Xitou area, including local delicacies.
Vegetarian options are available inside the park, but vegan and halal food may be limited. It's recommended to check nearby restaurants in the Xitou area for a wider variety.
Nearby accommodations include the Xitou Nature Education Park’s guesthouse and several hotels in the Nantou area. Budget and mid-range options are available for visitors wishing to stay overnight.
Nearby attractions include the Sun Moon Lake, the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, and the Alishan National Scenic Area. These can be easily combined for a day trip.
The souvenir shops in the park sell local crafts, eco-friendly products, and nature-themed items like handmade jewelry, wooden crafts, and local tea.
After visiting, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public buses to continue your trip to nearby attractions such as Sun Moon Lake or the Alishan area.
