Northern Taiwan - Taiwan - page 276

springs are obvious on the other side, though you may get off track a few times. Give
yourself plenty of time and be aware that you are going into a potentially dangerous situ-
ation.
Note you must cross the river at the end, so don't go after heavy rains, especially in
spring and summer. River shoes are helpful.
Sleeping & Eating
Mingchih has rooms and cottages (from NT$3900, weekday discounts) set among tall ce-
dar trees. Try to get a room away from the highway, though, as trucks come by at all
times of day or night and can disturb your sleep. The log-style restaurant has a lovely
sunroom area looking out onto the forest where you can enjoy an OK breakfast, lunch
and dinner (average dishes cost NT$220 to NT$360).
Getting There & Away
Guests who are staying overnight at Mingchih can take a daily shuttle (NT$600, 9am,
three hours) from Taipei MRT Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall station (Exit 4). Otherwise,
you need your own transport.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area
During the 20th century, Alishan, Bashianshan and this 126 sq km forest recreation
area (Tàipíngshān Guójiā Sēnlín Yóulè Qū; http://tps.forest.gov.tw ; admission NT$200, per vehicle
NT$100; 6am-9pm) were the three top logging sites in Taiwan. Taipingshan only be-
came a protected area in 1983 and has since transformed itself into one of the best moun-
tain retreats in Taiwan. Around a small wooden village set on the forested slopes are end-
less lookouts over the Snow Mountains, as well as Japanese shrines, hiking trails through
old forests, and informative displays on the old logging industry.
The 30km ride up to Taipingshan from Hwy 7 takes more than an hour on the very
steep and tortuous road. Be aware that this area is often very foggy and at times you may
not be able to reach the village. The best time to visit the park is from April to Novem-
ber, especially in late autumn when the leaves are changing colour.
Sights & Activities