🌲 Dongshi Forest Farm - Taichung Forest Therapy Recreation Area

Dongshi Forest Farm is a perfect place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air of the mountains, let children play freely, and relax and unwind while adults relax. Combining natural forest landscapes, family-friendly attractions, camping accommodations, and nighttime eco-friendly activities, it's a rare all-encompassing forest recreation area in central Taiwan. Whether it's a short half-day trip or an overnight excursion, Dongshi Forest Farm offers a immersive natural and relaxing experience. #NaturalForest #FamilyTrip #MoreTaichungAttractions Located in Dongshi District, Taichung City, this approximately 225-hectare forest recreation area boasts lush greenery and refreshing mountain views, along with diverse experiences such as forest trails, fitness training facilities, cabin accommodations, and firefly viewing. It's perfect for a half-day or full-day trip, especially with children. 🕰️ Operating Hours: • Open daily at 6:30 AM and close at 10:00 PM.  • Foot bathing in the Zhuzu Garden is generally open from 8:00 AM until closing time.  🏖️ Environment/Facilities and Highlights: • Forest Landscape and Seasonal Changes: The forest is located approximately 500-700 meters above sea level, boasting a cool climate and lush vegetation. Enjoy flowers and fireflies in spring, maple leaves in autumn, and plum blossoms and snowy scenery in winter – each season offers unique charm.  • Trails and Forest Bathing Areas: The park's trails are flat and easy to walk, perfect for family strolls or active hikes. There are also forest bathing areas where you can relax and breathe deeply.  • Fitness Training Area/Forest Recreation Facilities: The newly upgraded fitness training area features slides, sand pits, climbing and balancing equipment, perfect for older children to challenge and enjoy.  • Accommodation and Camping: Accommodation is available at the Forest Resort, cabins, and camping areas, allowing you to slow down your journey. Staying overnight allows you to experience the forest atmosphere at night and in the early morning.  • Hot Spring Foot Baths/Foot Soaking Pools: Relax and unwind after a day of fun. The foot baths at the foot bathing park are very popular with families and extended visitors.  • Firefly, Birdwatching, and Insect Ecology: During firefly season (approximately late March to June), guided tours and nighttime walks are offered to watch fireflies, making them a delightful nighttime experience for both children and adults. Insect and bird watching opportunities are also available within the park.  📍 Address and Transportation: • Address: No. 6-1, Shilin Street, Dongshi District, Taichung City, Taiwan • Driving: Exit National Highway 4 at the Fengyuan Interchange, transfer to Provincial Highway 3 or the Central Region Road, follow the signs to Dongshi, and set your navigation to "Dongshi Forest Farm." Parking is available within the park. 💰 Average Cost/Ticket Price Information: Adult Ticket (General Public) Approximately NT$250/person Student Ticket (with student ID) Approximately NT$200/person Child/Senior Ticket (under 6 or 65+) Approximately NT$125/person Parking Fee: Approximately NT$50 for a small car; Approximately NT$30 for a motorcycle Camping/Accommodation: Cabin or resort prices vary depending on room type and season; campsite prices (excluding electricity) are generally lower. 🎡 Travel Experiences and Recommended Itineraries Morning | Forest Walk and Nature Breathe We recommend arriving at 6:30 AM when the park opens to avoid crowds and start your day with fresh air and soft morning light. Stroll along the trails, listen to birdsong, watch the dew fall, feed the fish, or sit quietly by the lake. Morning | Physical Training and Kids' Fun Bring your children to the physical training area, where they can enjoy climbing, balancing bridges, and slides. Adults can relax and enjoy some exercise while doing so. Lunch | Picnic or Enjoy a Mountain Cuisine at the Resort There are restaurants within the park offering Hakka and mountain cuisine, or you can bring a simple picnic and share a lunch on the grass. The relaxing atmosphere will refresh both your body and mind. Afternoon | Flower and Firefly Viewing and Relaxation Depending on the season, you can spend the afternoon strolling through Butterfly Valley, along the maple forest trails, or at the forest bathing area. During firefly season, a guided firefly viewing tour in the evening is a highlight of your trip. Evening/Night | Accommodation, Foot Bath, and Nighttime Activities Stay in a cabin or at the Forest Resort, and relax in the hot springs or foot baths. Don't miss any nighttime activities, such as guided firefly viewing tours. In good weather, you can even enjoy stargazing. ⚠️ Notes & Reminders • Mosquitoes are common, especially in the evenings and in humid areas. It's recommended to bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a light jacket. • Trails and facilities may be muddy or slippery after rain, so choose shoes with good traction. • For accommodation or camping, it's recommended to book accommodation/confirm a campsite in advance. Crowds may occur during holidays and peak season, so there may be a wait for facilities. • For nighttime activities (such as firefly viewing), please check whether they are being held on the day of the event. Light pollution and weather conditions may affect the quality of the experience. • Ticket prices and fees may vary depending on the season or event; please refer to on-site announcements for details.