Taiwan's 2020 Cherry Blossom Forecast

Planning a cherry blossom vacation? Taiwan should be on your list! Compared to Japan and South Korea, Taiwan offers a more affordable, less crowded, and equally stunning experience. Thanks to Taiwan’s unique cherry tree varieties, the bloom lasts from January to April. This guide will show you where to enjoy the best of Taiwan’s cherry blossoms.

Yangmingshan National Park (Early February – March)

Just north of Taipei City, Yangmingshan National Park features lush green valleys, hot springs, and vibrant cherry blossoms along its hiking trails. In addition to the cherry trees, expect to see peonies, azaleas, camellias, and more. You can visit Chiang Kai-Shek's summer residence, hike to Mount Qixing’s peak for panoramic views of Taipei, or relax in the Lengshuikeng hot springs.

No matter what you plan to do, getting to Yangmingshan National Park is easy. Take the THSR train to Taipei Station, then transfer to the Jinshan Line Royal Bus to the park’s administration office. Alternatively, take the MRT to Jiantan Station and switch to city bus No.5 or No.108. Having a THSR Pass simplifies your journey, and there are various tours available to explore the park.

Wuji Tianyuan Temple (March – April)

Each spring, the stunning Wuji Tianyuan Temple is adorned with Yoshino cherry blossoms. Dedicated to Yu Huang Dadi, the temple’s standout feature is the five-story Altar of Heaven, a 60-meter-tall pagoda offering breathtaking views of mountains, cherry blossoms, and even the ocean. To visit, take the Red Metro Line to Tamsui Station, and from there, shuttle buses run every 30 minutes to the temple. For ease of travel, consider using a Taipei Metro EasyCard.

Wuling Farm (February – March)

Founded in 1963 by a group of retired soldiers as a fruit-growing region, Wuling Farm has transformed into a beloved mountain getaway for locals in Taiwan. It boasts a stunning array of maple, pear, apple trees, and over 30,000 cherry trees. One of the farm's highlights is the enchanting pathway flanked by cherry trees, creating a picturesque pink tunnel of blossoms. While visiting, make sure to explore the trail through the tea plantation that leads to the breathtaking Taoshan Waterfall.

The easiest route to Wuling Farm is by taking a train from Taipei Station to Luodong Station (this is covered by the THSR Pass). From there, catch a bus that will drop you off at Wuling Farm.

Formosan Aboriginal Village (Early April)

Designated by the Japanese Government as the only place to experience cherry blossoms outside of Japan, Formosan Aboriginal Village blends the vibrant cultures of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes with a European-themed amusement park. Here, visitors can explore traditional houses, museums, watch aboriginal dance performances, ride roller coasters, and enjoy a 3D theater experience. Additionally, you can take a cable car ride over the scenic Sun Moon Lake to view the cherry blossoms from above. The village also features a variety of halal restaurants and prayer rooms.

To reach Formosan Aboriginal Village, board the THSR train from Taipei to Taichung Station, then transfer to the Nantou Bus heading to Sun Moon Lake. Disembark at the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village stop (note that the bus fare is not included in the THSR Pass).

Cingjing Farm (March)

A wonderful spot to admire cherry blossoms in Central Taiwan is Cingjing Farm, often referred to as the Alps of Taiwan. This picturesque, high-altitude area features serene views of expansive green pastures, flocks of grazing sheep, and vibrant pink cherry blossoms. Visitors can stroll along a path that spans the farm, including the 500-meter Sakura Trail. Continuing along, you'll find horses at the Equestrian Show Stage, as well as a scenic 1-km skywalk that offers aerial views of the grasslands. To get there, take the THSR train from Taipei to Taichung THSR Station and then catch a bus to Cingjing Farm (the bus ride is not covered by the THSR Pass).

Alishan Scenic Area (Early April)

Situated between Chiayi and Nantou County, Alishan is a picturesque mountainous region home to over 19,000 white Yoshino cherry trees. The most delightful way to experience Alishan's beauty is aboard the Red Forest Railway Train, a historic train that meanders through the cherry blossoms up the mountain. This area is also the homeland of the Tsou Tribe, where you can savor their famous dishes such as stone slab BBQ, bamboo tube rice, and Areca Flower Soup at various restaurants and homestays. Along the journey, you'll encounter many teahouses where you can unwind beneath the cherry trees. To reach Alishan, take the THSR to Chiayi TRA Station in downtown Chiayi and then hop on a shuttle bus. There is also a convenient 10-hour tour available that travels from Taichung to Alishan.

Exploring Taiwan is best done by train. The Taiwan High Speed Rail Pass and Taipei Metro EasyCard make traveling around Taiwan both economical and convenient. Additionally, be sure to get a 4G SIM card to keep in touch with family back in Indonesia and share your travel experiences with them.