Puli Township has long been one of Taiwan's richest areas for butterfly diversity, thanks to its basin topography and warm, humid climate. Each spring, large numbers of purple crow butterflies (Euploea) and chestnut tiger butterflies (Parantica) migrate northward from their overwintering grounds in southern Taiwan and gather in the Wugonglun hills, creating the spectacular butterfly valley phenomenon. Puli was also once a major production center for butterfly specimen exports in Taiwan's early decades, leaving behind a rich history of butterfly culture.
Highlights of Puli Butterfly Valley
Taiwan's purple crow butterflies overwinter each autumn and winter in places like Maolin in Kaohsiung, then migrate northward along the butterfly corridor as temperatures rise in spring. The Puli basin is a key waypoint on that migration route. The hills of Wugonglun, with their sheltered terrain and abundant plant resources, form a valley where butterflies briefly congregate. During migration season (roughly April to May), clear mornings are when observation density is highest — tens of thousands of butterflies in flight is a genuine natural spectacle.
Puli's connection with butterflies goes beyond modern nature observation. After Taiwan's restoration, from the postwar years into the 1970s, Puli was the world's largest center for butterfly specimen exports. Butterfly craft products were marketed to Europe and the United States, driving the local economy. That era has passed, but the deep bond between Puli and butterflies remains an important part of local cultural identity.
Making the most of your visit
Practical information
Getting there and time needed
- Wugonglun is on the outskirts of Puli Township. You can reach it by car or scooter. The butterfly valley is a natural environment with no fixed entrance fee — you explore the hill paths yourself.
- The migration season (April – May) is the primary time to visit; butterfly numbers are much lower in other months. Clear mornings have the best light and most active butterflies; expect almost none on rainy days.
Nearby connections
- Puli town center can be combined with Guangxing Paper Mill, Puli Tobacco and Wine Factory, Paper Dome, and other attractions for a full-day cultural and nature itinerary around Puli.
- Head north to Huisun Forest, or south to Yuchi Township and on to Sun Moon Lake. Puli is a transit hub for most Nantou itineraries.
Source: compiled from context data; some information supplemented from public sources. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.