Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area
A mountainous oasis with lush forests, scenic trails, waterfalls, and panoramic city views. Perfect for hiking and nature immersion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mountainous oasis with lush forests, scenic trails, waterfalls, and panoramic city views. Perfect for hiking and nature immersion.
"Awesome place for forest bathing and escaping the summer heat!"
🚗 Drive for Convenience
Driving is easiest. Parking costs NT$100 for cars, NT$20 for scooters.
💰 Affordable Entry
Weekday admission is NT$80, weekends NT$100. Parking is extra.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Forest Bathing Trails
Various trails throughout the park
Immerse yourself in lush greenery and fresh mountain air. Perfect for a peaceful escape and rejuvenation.
Panoramic City Views
Dongyan Mountain summit
Ascend to the peak for breathtaking vistas of Taoyuan, New Taipei, and Taipei cities.
Abundant Wildlife Sightings
Throughout the park
Keep an eye out for Taiwanese Macaques and even pangolins in their natural habitat.
Waterfalls and Streams
Various locations
Discover serene natural water features that add to the area's tranquil beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive for Convenience
Driving is easiest. Parking costs NT$100 for cars, NT$20 for scooters.
💰 Affordable Entry
Weekday admission is NT$80, weekends NT$100. Parking is extra.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained but can be steep. Good walking shoes are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive for Convenience
Driving is easiest. Parking costs NT$100 for cars, NT$20 for scooters.
💰 Affordable Entry
Weekday admission is NT$80, weekends NT$100. Parking is extra.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained but can be steep. Good walking shoes are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🐒 Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance and do not feed them.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The lush forests and mountain views are incredibly photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Dongyanshan Forest Recreation Area for its beautiful, well-maintained trails and refreshing natural environment, making it an ideal escape from the city. The panoramic views from the summit and the chance to spot wildlife are significant highlights. However, some find the public transport inconvenient and the on-site restaurant to be expensive.
"Admission: 80NTD (weekdays), 100NTD (weekends / public holidays)
Half a day is more than sufficient to cover all but one trail, i.e. Dongman Trail. Trails are very well-maintained and family-friendly. Awesome place for forest bathing and escaping the summer heat!"
Vernon
"The attraction was awesome. Went to this scenic spot today in the morning despite the visibility was low at the mountaintop while hiking. The fog was extremely thick throughout the route as well. Numerous natural creatures were easy to be perceived such as a few Taiwanese Macaques. They didn't approach me but lovely and tranquilly track me with a slight sound from their steps in the forest. There's a mountaintop with altitude 1212ms roughly in the attraction. I went to the top from the entrance next to a nearby restaurant for approx. 1 hour. it's not too steep but need to take some time to reach there for sure. at the end of my trip here, I went down to that restaurant from the top of the mountain. Their cuisine were elaborating in spite of expensive price. They also sold some snacks. However, some popular items can be the pics below. Each of then will cost 320NTD other than french fries and nuggets. They also cater for big groups so the price will be higher, since from their restaurant they are able to accommodate many groups. Overall the experience was gorgeous. Suggestion for those want to reach here from Taipei is that better to drive your own car. Otherwise that will be a little inconvenient since the public transport there is not highly developed. They only provide public bus from the admission center. Perhaps every 30-1 hr the public bus will arrive."
Joseph mao
"We love visiting Dongyanshan National Forest! It's such a lovely natural environment with trails suitable for all skill levels. With the newly renovated cafe and amenities, this is a great place for a day trip!
We have even spotted a Pangolin along the self-guided trail up to the peak! What a treat!"
Parkbus Taiwan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by car, taking about an hour from Taipei or Taoyuan. If using public transport, you'll need to take a TRA or HSR train to a nearby station and then a bus, though bus frequency can be limited.
Public transport is available but not highly developed. Buses from the admission center run approximately every 30-60 minutes, so it's best to check schedules in advance.
Parking is available on-site. The fee is NT$100 for cars and NT$20 for scooters. Arriving early is recommended as parking can fill up.
Yes, you can pin 'Dongyan Mountain Forest Recreation Area' on Google Maps for navigation.
Absolutely! Many visitors treat it as a day trip, especially if they have a car. It's a great escape from the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is NT$80 on weekdays and NT$100 on weekends and public holidays.
The area typically closes at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to allow enough time for exploration.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, weekday visits are cheaper than weekends.
Yes, there is a separate parking fee of NT$100 for cars and NT$20 for scooters.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trails are well-maintained and family-friendly, suitable for all skill levels. The Dongman Trail is longer, while others offer easier walks.
Yes, the trails are generally easy and safe for families. The natural environment provides a great outdoor experience for kids.
Visitors have reported seeing Taiwanese Macaques and even pangolins. The diverse ecosystem is rich with natural creatures.
Picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a day out. However, lighting fires for BBQs is forbidden.
The terrain includes easy gravel paths along the west edge and more challenging up-and-down step trails. The summit trail is not too steep but requires time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant at the mountaintop that offers cuisine and snacks. It can accommodate large groups, but prices can be expensive.
The restaurant serves elaborate cuisine and snacks. Popular items can cost around NT$320, excluding fries and nuggets.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option, as there are many picnic tables available.
It's advisable to bring snacks and drinks with you, as convenience stores are not readily available within the recreation area.
While the cuisine is described as elaborate, it is also noted as being expensive. Many visitors opt for picnics.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush forest trails, panoramic city views from the summit, and any natural water features offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, if you're patient and lucky, you might capture images of local wildlife like macaques or pangolins.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated picnic tables, making lunch a fun part of the adventure. While there's a restaurant, bringing your own food can be more budget-friendly and convenient for families. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as even the easier trails involve some walking.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Don't miss the hike to the Dongyan Mountain summit for breathtaking panoramic views. The area is also known for its clean air and serene atmosphere, providing an ideal escape for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate footwear for your chosen trail.
📸 Photographers
Keep your camera ready for potential wildlife encounters, as spotting macaques or even a pangolin can lead to unique photographic opportunities. The changing light throughout the day, from soft morning hues to golden hour glows, offers varied moods for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Dongyanshan
One of the highlights is the hike to the summit of Dongyan Mountain, standing at 1212 meters. This ascent, which takes about an hour from the entrance near the restaurant, is not overly steep but requires a steady pace. The effort is rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Taoyuan, New Taipei, and even Taipei cities, stretching all the way to the estuary of the Gandhi River.
Beyond the main trails, the area is known for its rich ecosystem, offering opportunities to spot diverse natural creatures. The forest itself is a major draw, providing a refreshing escape from urban life and a chance to connect with nature.
Wildlife Encounters in the Forest
More excitingly, some visitors have had the incredible fortune of spotting a Pangolin along the self-guided trails. These elusive mammals are a rare treat to see, making any visit to Dongyanshan potentially unforgettable. Remember to observe all wildlife from a safe distance and refrain from feeding them to ensure their well-being and preserve the natural environment.
The rich ecosystem also means you might hear or see other smaller creatures and a variety of birdlife. The dense forest provides ample cover and food sources, supporting a healthy population of animals.
Navigating Dongyanshan: Transport and Amenities
For those relying on public transport, it's advisable to plan meticulously as bus services are less frequent. You can take a train to a nearby station and then catch a bus, but be sure to check the schedules beforehand as buses may only run every 30-60 minutes. Once inside the park, amenities are well-maintained. There are visitor centers and multiple restrooms available. For a break or a meal, there's a restaurant located at the mountaintop, offering cuisine and snacks. While it can accommodate large groups, it's noted for being on the pricier side.
Fire-lighting for BBQs is strictly forbidden to protect the forest environment. The park closes at 5 PM, so ensure you allocate enough time for your visit to fully enjoy the trails and views without rushing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit