Dongshan River Forest Park | Yilan Attraction

Dongshan River Forest Park stretches along both banks of the middle reaches of the Dongshan River, forming a linear green space that combines walking trails, cycling paths, and an ecological wetland. The park connects directly to the National Center for Traditional Arts. On any given day you'll find locals cycling and strolling, while the wetland area has bird-watching shelters that attract a good variety of waterbirds in spring and autumn.

Highlights of Dongshan River Forest Park

The Dongshan River is about 23 km long in total; the gently flowing middle section was ideal for developing a leisure park. The forest park is planted with multiple native tree species that have grown tall enough to form well-shaded trail corridors. The wetland zone uses the low-lying river bank topography to preserve water vegetation, attracting egrets, herons, kingfishers, and other waterbirds. Observation shelters let you wait quietly for birds to appear — a genuine draw for bird photographers.

The park's shared-use trail is about 3–4 metres wide, accommodating both pedestrians and cyclists, though you'll need to yield courteously on busy weekends. The southern end of the park connects seamlessly with the National Center for Traditional Arts, where you can walk in to browse traditional craft demonstrations — a natural pairing of nature and culture in one outing.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

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Ride the Full Cycling PathThe park's cycling route is flat throughout. Rent a bicycle and ride from Dongshan River Water Park all the way to the National Center for Traditional Arts — the full ride takes about an hour.

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Wetland Bird WatchingSpring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) bring migratory birds. Head to the wetland observation shelters to spot a variety of waterbirds — early morning is best.

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Morning Walk on the TrailThe park trail is well-shaded and draws early-morning walkers and joggers. The unhurried atmosphere in the cool of the morning suits slow-travel visitors perfectly.

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Link Up with the National Center for Traditional ArtsThe southern end of the park leads directly into the National Center for Traditional Arts. A common combination: half a day strolling the park, half a day exploring the arts center.

Practical Information

Getting There

By car: exit the freeway at National Freeway No. 5's Dongshan interchange, then follow Provincial Highway 7C toward the Dongshan River. Parking is available.
By public transit: take the TRA to Dongshan Station, then walk or cycle about 15–20 minutes to reach the park.
The park is open year-round with no admission gate. On weekends, arriving in the morning is recommended to get ahead of the cycling and walking crowds.

Nearby Connections

The National Center for Traditional Arts is adjacent to the southern end of the park and is a short walk away; allow at least 2 hours for a visit.
Dongshan Old Street is about 3 km from the park — a good afternoon stop to try local Dongshan snacks.

Source: Yilan Branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency and Dongshan Township Office data. Photos pending Dio's on-location shoot.

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