Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area is a national forest recreation area in Ren'ai Township, Nantou County, covering about 2,787 hectares at elevations between 1,200 and 2,600 meters. Established in 1994, it is now administered by the Nantou branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency. The park contains one of Taiwan's largest stands of native sweet gum forest, mixed with Taiwan red pine and other conifers, and its autumn foliage is one of the country's most celebrated maple-viewing scenes.
Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area covers about 2,787 hectares at elevations between 1,200 and 2,600 meters. It was formally established as a national forest recreation area in 1994 and is now administered by the Nantou branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency (formerly the Forestry Bureau, reorganized in August 2023). The park contains one of Taiwan's largest stands of native sweet gum forest alongside Taiwan red pine.
Highlights of Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area
Aowanda lies within Ren'ai Township, with the Wanda River — a tributary of the Zhuoshui River — flowing through it, creating a landscape where river valleys and forest stand side by side. The park's well-preserved old-growth maple forest is one of the largest maple woodland belts in Taiwan; the mix of maples and Japanese cedars forms rich layers of natural texture. In late autumn, when water levels drop, the clear stream combined with the red foliage creates a vivid seasonal contrast.
The peak maple-viewing season runs from late October to mid-November each year, varying slightly with annual temperatures and rainfall. The park offers multiple trails at different difficulty levels, ranging from a half-hour walk to several hours, making it suitable for family hikes. Visits outside the maple season are equally worthwhile — the forest bathing trails and stream ecology remain attractive, with fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere.
Making the most of your visit
Practical information
Getting there and time needed
- By car: from Puli, follow Provincial Highway 14 toward Ren'ai Township and turn onto the Aowanda Forest Road near Wanfeng Village. The mountain road is winding — drive slowly.
- Parking is tight during maple season (late Oct – Nov). Some years vehicle controls or shuttle buses are in effect — check the latest Forestry Bureau announcements before you go.
- Allow half a day to a full day. Staying overnight in the park during maple season gives you flexibility to enjoy the early morning and evening light.
Nearby connections
- Back on Highway 14, head toward Wushe in Ren'ai Township to visit historical sites related to the Wushe Incident.
- Heading toward Puli, you can combine a visit to Guangxing Paper Mill and Puli Butterfly Valley for a one- or two-day itinerary around Puli Township.
Source: compiled from context data; some information supplemented from public sources. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the area and elevation range of Aowanda?
The park covers about 2,787 hectares at elevations between 1,200 and 2,600 meters.
When was Aowanda established?
It was formally established as a national forest recreation area in 1994 and is now administered by the Nantou branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency.
What plants is Aowanda known for?
It is known for one of Taiwan's largest native sweet gum forests, growing alongside Taiwan red pine in a mixed conifer-broadleaf landscape.
Sources
- 奧萬大國家森林遊樂區 - 台灣山林悠遊網 — 面積、海拔、成立年份
- 奧萬大國家森林遊樂區 - 維基百科 — 歷史沿革