Huisun Forest

Covering a vast area of 7,477 hectares, Huisun Forest is the largest primitive forest in Taiwan, where 80% of the forest area has not yet been developed. Spanning over a wide altitudinal range from 450m to 2,419m, the forest is home to both subtropical and temperate species of trees, offering a marvelous scene to adore. Six different walking trails can be found within the forest, drawing in a significant number of seasoned hikers and nature lovers. While taking in some negative ions to refresh your bodies and souls, you will also encounter a bunch of cicadas churning out their metallic chorus that calms you down like a natural medication. Huisun Forest itself is a surprise all year round. In different seasons, there are different natural events – from butterflies to cherry blossoms and maple flowers. As coffee trees are also planted here, coffee connoisseurs would definitely have to try a warm cup of coffee in the cool of Huisun Forest – it is said to be some of the best local coffee in Taiwan.

Located in the Renai Township of Nantou, Huisun Forest was first established in 1916 and mainly exploited for timber during the Japanese Colonial Era. After the takeover of Taiwan, the forest was handed over to Taiwan Provincial College of Agriculture (臺灣省立農學院), today known as National Chung Hsing University (國立中興大學), and named Nenggao Forest (能高林場). In 1963, the then-president of Chung Hsing University Tang Hui-sun (湯惠蓀) unfortunately passed away during his regular visit to the forest. In order to commemorate his contribution, this research forest was therefore renamed Huisun Forest.

If you are interested in the indigenous culture and history of Taiwan, Huisun Forest is not to be missed. The Taiwanese epic film “Seediq Bale (賽德克巴萊)” that tells the story of Musha Incident (also known as Wushe Rebellion) was shot here. The movie details the life of Seediq survivors after the last major uprising against colonial Japanese forces. Whether you are a nature admirer or history buff, Huisun Forest won’t disappoint.