Yangmingshan Flower Season in Taiwan 2025
Sakura, azalea, camellia, wild peony, and peach blossoms cover the Yangmingshan National Park every spring
Best time: January–March
Yangmingshan National Park, located just an hour’s bus ride from downtown Taipei, transforms into a vibrant floral paradise during the spring months. Visitors flock to this iconic destination to witness a breathtaking array of blooms, making it one of Taiwan’s most cherished seasonal events.
Main Attractions During Flower Season
Yangmingshan is renowned for its diverse flora, which includes cherry blossoms, azaleas, camellias, wild peonies, peach blossoms, and calla lilies. The Taiwan cherry is among the first to bloom in late January, followed by the double-petaled Yaezakura, and later, the Showa and Yoshino cherry trees in February. The Flower Clock, Yangming Park fountain, and the second parking lot are key locations for cherry blossom viewing, offering picturesque backdrops for photography.
The park also hosts a variety of activities to celebrate the season. Events such as parades, dance competitions, and performances by the Paper Windmill Theatre troupe highlight the cultural significance of the blooms. Visitors can also collect a unique flower season-themed commemorative stamp from the temporary post office set up for the event. Picnics and guided tours are frequently organized, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Yangmingshan.
Accessibility and Transportation
Yangmingshan National Park is easily accessible from Taipei via public buses. Routes such as the 260 or Red 5 from Taipei Main Station or Jiantan MRT Station take approximately 60 minutes to reach the park. For those driving, parking is available, but it can fill up quickly during peak season.
Hours and Entry Fees
The park is open year-round, with no entrance fee for general access. Some specific areas or events during the flower season may require tickets, so checking the park’s official website or visitor center for updates is recommended.
Facilities
Yangmingshan offers ample visitor amenities, including restrooms, picnic areas, and food stalls. Cafés and restaurants near the park provide local delicacies, perfect for a post-hike meal. Accessible pathways and facilities make the park suitable for families with children and individuals with mobility needs.
Best Spots for Photography
Flower Clock and Yangming Park Fountain
These iconic landmarks are surrounded by vibrant blooms during the season, offering excellent photo opportunities. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds and capturing the soft light of dawn.
Menghuan Pond
Translated as "Dreamy Lake," this wetland area often shrouded in mist provides an ethereal setting for nature photography. The trail around the pond is relatively short and accessible, making it a favorite among visitors.
Qingtiangang Grassland
Known for its expansive views and grazing water buffalo, this plateau offers a unique contrast of lush greenery and volcanic landscapes. The 1.5-mile (2.4-km) circular trail is beginner-friendly and perfect for capturing panoramic shots.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors can extend their trip by exploring the numerous highlights within Yangmingshan. The highest peak, Mt. Qixing, can be reached via moderate hiking trails and offers sweeping views of Taipei and the surrounding area. Lengshuikeng is known for its hot springs and eco-pond, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. The Jingshan Suspension Bridge, a pedestrian-only bridge, offers serene views of the park's streams and foliage, making it a picturesque spot for a leisurely walk.
Geological and Ecological Significance
Yangmingshan sits atop the Datun Volcano Group, a cluster of dormant volcanoes. This geological history has endowed the park with fertile soil, diverse terrain, and a unique ecosystem. It was designated the world’s first “Urban Quiet Park” by Quiet Parks International in 2020, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility amid nature.