Taiwan Food Atlas

Xuhai Grassland

A natural grassland plateau on the eastern side of Hengchun Peninsula, overlooking the Pacific Ocean
📍 Pingtung · Mudan Township · Xuhai Village🏞️ Nature🔖 Entry permit required, plateau grassland, Pacific Ocean views

Xuhai Grassland sits on a plateau landform on the eastern side of Hengchun Peninsula, at an elevation of roughly 200 to 400 meters, and falls under the management jurisdiction of national forest land. The grassland offers broad, open views; on clear days you can see out to the Pacific Ocean and the Luzon Strait, making it one of the few places in southeastern Taiwan's main island that preserves a natural grassland landscape. Because entry requires an advance permit, the area has retained a relatively pristine natural state.

What to see at Xuhai Grassland

Xuhai Grassland is a transitional tropical-to-subtropical grassland. The grass color changes distinctly between spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November): in spring the grass turns green and feels full of life, while in autumn it takes on golden hues. The plateau's cliff edge offers sweeping Pacific views, and on days with good visibility, you can even make out the silhouette of Lanyu (Orchid Island) in the distance.

Xuhai Village itself is a coastal settlement where Paiwan people and Han Chinese live side by side. Near the village there are hot springs at Xuhai with sodium bicarbonate water at around 50°C. Entry permits for the grassland must be obtained through the Forestry Bureau or the relevant authority. Application procedures and quota limits are set by the managing agency; it is recommended to complete the process at least one week before your visit to avoid being turned away.

How to make the most of your visit

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Apply for an entry permit in advanceXuhai Grassland is a controlled zone within national forest land and requires an advance permit. Prepare your documents at least one week before departure; do not show up without prior arrangement.
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Best grass colors in spring and autumnThe grass is lush green in spring (March to April) and turns golden in autumn (October to November). Summer is hot with frequent rain, and winter brings strong Luoshanfeng winds — each season has its own character.
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Add a stop at Xuhai Hot SpringsThere are hot spring facilities in Xuhai Village. After visiting the grassland, soaking in the sodium bicarbonate springs is a good way to ease tired muscles. The facilities are small-scale; check operating status before you go.
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Dress for outdoor walkingThe grassland terrain is uneven; wear supportive athletic shoes, bring enough water, and pack a windproof jacket as the plateau can be very windy.

Practical information

Getting there and time needed

  • Xuhai Village is remote with no direct public transit. Self-driving is recommended; the journey from Pingtung City takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Entry to the grassland requires an advance application. Contact the Pingtung Forest District Office of the Forestry Bureau for the latest application procedures and quota information.
  • The southern section of Provincial Highway 26 (South Loop Road) is winding. Exercise extra caution when driving at night.

Nearby connections

  • Mudan Reservoir is also in Mudan Township, the same administrative area as Xuhai. A combined half-day itinerary is possible.
  • Hengchun Old Town and Kenting National Park are about 1 to 1.5 hours away by car; a multi-day South Loop circuit can be planned.

Source: Pingtung Forest District Office of the Forestry Bureau, Council of Agriculture Forestry Bureau. Please refer to the latest announcements from the competent authority for entry permit requirements. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.

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