Dongshan River Forest Park is a linear green space along the middle reaches of the Dongshan River, combining walking trails, cycling paths, and an ecological wetland. The Dongshan River runs 24 km in total, rising from Xinliao Mountain in the Central Mountain Range; its channel was straightened between 1974 and 1975, and the adjoining Dongshan River Water Park was completed in 1994 under then-magistrate Yu Shyi-kun. The forest park connects directly to the National Center for Traditional Arts, drawing locals for daily cycling and strolling, while the wetland area's bird-watching shelters attract a good variety of waterbirds in spring and autumn.
The Dongshan River runs 24 km in total, rising from Xinliao Mountain in the Central Mountain Range. Its channel was straightened between 1974 and 1975, and the adjoining Dongshan River Water Park was completed in 1994 under then-magistrate Yu Shyi-kun. The Water Park began hosting the Yilan International Children's Folklore and Folkgame Festival the following year, in 1996, with the inaugural edition featuring 10 performing groups from 9 countries.
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
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Dongshan River and where does it originate?
It runs 24 km in total, rising from Xinliao Mountain in the Central Mountain Range.
When was the Dongshan River Water Park completed?
It was completed in 1994 under then-magistrate Yu Shyi-kun, after the river channel was straightened in 1974–1975.
When did the Yilan International Children's Folklore and Folkgame Festival begin?
It was founded in 1996; the inaugural edition featured 10 performing groups from 9 countries at the Dongshan River Water Park.
Sources
- 冬山河 - 維基百科 — 全長24公里、發源地
- 蘭陽博物館-030期-細說冬山河親水公園的生成 — 截彎取直工程年份、親水公園完工年份
- 宜蘭國際童玩藝術節 - 維基百科 — 1996年創辦、首屆參演國家與團隊數