︱Xitou Nature Education Area is one of the seven major experimental forests of National Taiwan University.
Xitou Nature Education Area is a concave valley surrounded by mountains on three sides. The highest peak in the south is Lingtou Mountain, reaching an elevation of 2,025 meters. To the north, it extends as the Fenghuang Mountain Range, forming the eastern boundary ridge of the area. To the west, it extends as Neishu Mountain and other mountain ranges before turning north, forming the ridge lines on the southern and western sides of the area. The valley flows between the two mountain ranges and exits to the north. The main elevation range in the area is between 800 and 2,000 meters.
Based on the observation data from the Xitou weather station, the monthly average temperature in Xitou ranges from 11.0 to 20.8 degrees Celsius, with an annual average temperature of 16.6 degrees Celsius. The average annual rainfall is 2,635.18 millimeters. The area has a warm and humid climate type, with no water shortage throughout the year. The effective temperature is not concentrated in the summer, making it suitable for people to visit and enjoy summer leisure activities.
▲ Located in Nantou, Xitou Nature Education Area, formerly known as the well-known "Xitou Forest Recreation Area," is home to approximately 300 species of woody plants, 1,300 species of herbaceous plants, as well as precious tree species such as Taiwan Red Cypress, Ginkgo, and Thujopsis. Walking along the trails in the park allows you to breathe in the most natural phytoncides, which is truly a great pleasure!
▲ During the Japanese colonial period, Tokyo Imperial University planted Ginkgo trees in Xitou, creating a unique Ginkgo forest that is unparalleled in Taiwan.
▲By following the map of Xitou Nature Education Area, you can explore this wonderful forest!
｜The secret base of fireflies, the University Pond.
The University Pond in Xitou Education Area was originally built as an artificial pond for soaking wood. Now, it can be considered one of the most famous attractions within Xitou Forest Recreation Area!
Standing on the small bamboo arch bridge, you can experience the resilience of bamboo while also remembering to look up and admire the surrounding Chinese Hemlock trees. During spring and summer, this place becomes a haven for frogs and fireflies, making it an excellent spot for photography!
｜The highest point in the park, the Fenghuang Mountain Observatory/Astronomical Observatory.
站Standing at the highest point of Xitou Nature Education Area, you can enjoy the feeling of being embraced by a cluster of peaks. On a clear day, you can even see the main peak of Yushan and Sun Moon Lake!
｜The first of its kind in Taiwan! A seven-story skyway.
The first forest canopy skywalk in Taiwan, spanning approximately 220 meters in length and situated at a height of about 7 stories above the ground. It is precisely at the forest canopy level where the most phytoncides are produced! In addition to experiencing the seasonal changes of the forest up close, you can also enjoy the purest air.
