While Japan and Korea get most of the attention during cherry blossom (sakura) season, you’d be remiss forgetting about Taiwan. The island country is a haven for natural beauty when its cherry blossoms are in bloom, typically from January to March or even as late as April. But why should you pick Taiwan?
Taiwan is not only blessed with cultural enclaves, affordable accommodation and modern, Westernised attractions, but it’s also a foodie hotspot with local markets and late-night street-side restaurants. Taiwan’s best cherry blossom areas also combine the stunning pink blooms with sprawling natural enclaves, such as the Alishan National Scenic Area, or ancient sites, including Wulai Atayal Aboriginal Village.
1. Yangmingshan National Park
One of only nine national parks in Taiwan, the 113-square-kilometre Yangmingshan National Park is world-famous for its cherry blossoms. The pink blooms drape over the park’s grassy lawns, with many of the sakura trees dotted along the picturesque streams. The blooms are particularly mesmerising with Taiwan’s tallest dormant volcano, Seven Star Mountain, in the background.
Why You Should go to Yangmingshan National Park
- Numerous hiking trails.
- Famed for its hot springs.
- Home to the historic Grass Mountain Chateau.
Top Hotels near Yangmingshan National Park
Yang Ming Shan Tien Lai Resort & Spa
Located on the edge of Yangmingshan National Park, the 4-star Yang Ming Shan Tien Lai Resort & Spa overlooks the cherry blossoms and Seven Star Mountain. You’ll find a variety of themed, Japanese and European rooms here, including the nature-inspired Superior Treehouse Room and a Deluxe Room with a hot spring bath and private veranda.
On-site dining includes European and international buffet meals at Ricco, local Jinshan district cuisine at Blue Magpie Lounge and Chinese fare at Khan. The resort offers its own organic farm, a sun-drenched swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool and the largest open-air hot spring in northern Taiwan.
Hotel Highlights
- An on-site spa with open-air hot spring, nude sauna, hydrotherapy pool and steam room.
- The traditional Japanese tatami and semi open-air hot spring bath in the Deluxe Family Room.
- Authentic Mongolian barbecue in Khan.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 253 – USD 1,167
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: No. 1-7, Mingliu Road, Jinshan District, New Taipei City, Taiwan
The Landis Resort Yangmingshan
The Landis Resort Yangmingshan sits on the southern edge of Yangmingshan National Park, giving you direct access to the alluring hot springs, cherry blossoms and hiking trails. However, you’ll also find many reasons to hang out around the resort, from the gender-specific sulfur spring pools to the fitness centre. There’s also an outdoor pool overlooking the mountains and Cantonese dishes at the on-site restaurant, Tein He.
Choose from Standard, Deluxe and Superior rooms, which all have separate seating areas and cosy beds. The Superior Room also has a double spa, while the luxe Suite offers a writing desk, separate lounge and dining area and a large spa bath.
Hotel Highlights
- Private spas in the Superior Rooms and Suites.
- A short drive from Sulfur Valley Recreation Area.
- Mountain views at the on-site Shan Lan cafe.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 186 – USD 285
Guest Rating: 7.4
Address: 237, Ger-Zhi Road, Yangmingshan, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Hotel Location
2. Alishan National Scenic Area
Spread across 41,500 hectares, the Alishan National Scenic Area is stunning year-round but is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season. The pink sakura blooms enhance the gorgeous views of alpine forests, undulating mountains and shaded boardwalks. The Alishan Forest Railway offers rides through the scenic area, while delicious bento boxes are sold at the train station.
Why You Should go to the Alishan National Scenic Area
- Unique photos from the Alishan Forest Railway.
- Easy to navigate along boardwalks.
- Home to towering Formosan cypress trees.
Top Hotels near the Alishan National Scenic Area
Alishan Hotel
Located within the Alishan National Scenic Area, the 5-star Alishan Hotel has both a Modern House and Historical House with finely-decorated rooms and suites. The Double Room has an LCD TV, bath and meal table, while the 430-square-metre Presidential Suite has separate living and dining rooms, a fireplace and balcony. Stay in the Premium Suite for modern comforts combined with century-old decorations.
The facilities differ within the Modern House and Historical House. The Modern House has a business centre, conference room and gym as well as an outdoor spa and garden cafe. The Historical House features an art store, the alfresco Song Ting Cafe and Star Terrace, which overlooks forested mountains.
Hotel Highlights
- Plush sun loungers and umbrellas on the Star Terrace.
- Full body massages at the Stone Spa Area.
- Inclusive Chinese breakfasts in certain rooms and suites.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 162 – USD 876
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: No. 16, Xianlin Village, Xianglin Village, Taiwan
Alishan Lauya Homestay
You can choose from a variety of nature-inspired rooms at Alishan Lauya Homestay, all of which overlook nearby mountains and feature timber decor. The Economy Double Room is ideal if you’re visiting on a budget, while the Deluxe Double Room is a spacious Taiwan cottage. Large groups might prefer the Deluxe Quadruple Room with two queen-size beds and two bathrooms.
Start your day off with the complimentary vegetarian breakfast before driving about 40 minutes to see the cherry blossoms in the Alishan National Scenic Area. The hotel is also surrounded by scenic walking trails and tea farms, such as Alishan Oolong Tea Farm.
Hotel Highlights
- Relaxed and exclusive property with only five rooms.
- Complimentary breakfast.
- Surrounded by restaurants and tea farms.
Star Rating: 2.5*
Price: USD 107 – USD 163
Guest Rating: 9
Address: No. 57-12, Ler Ye Section, Ler Ye Village, Alishan Township, Taiwan
Hotel Location
3. Wulai Atayal Aboriginal Village
Wulai Atayal Aboriginal Village is the closest aboriginal village to Taipei, perfect for a short day trip to immerse yourself in Taiwan’s rich history, culture and nature. Along with hot springs and traditional stores selling clothing, art, craft and food, Wulai Atayal Aboriginal Village also features cultural performances and the Wulai Atayal Museum. However, the best time to visit is during the cherry blossom season, when the village is dotted with pink blooms.
Why You Should go to Wulai Atayal Aboriginal Village
- An immersive cultural experience with traditions, shops and performances.
- Unique photographs of sakura trees and historic
- Home to rejuvenating hot springs.
Top Hotels near Wulai Atayal Aboriginal Village
Volando Urai Spring Spa & Resort
Under a kilometre from Wulai Atayal Aboriginal Village, the opulent Volando Urai Spring Spa & Resort features inviting rooms and suites with curtained beds, timber finishes and landscape or lake views. The Viewing Suite is a rooftop suite with a private balcony, while the Volando Suite has a private pool and open-air balcony.
The on-site art gallery showcases rotating exhibitions by local artists, while the resort’s hot spring boasts a large bath, spa pool, steam room and open-air spa. Don’t forget to indulge in seasonal and local ingredients at the on-site Seoul Soyan.
Hotel Highlights
- Unobstructed lake views from the bedroom and balcony in the Lakeside Suite.
- Afternoon tea and dinner with lake views at Seoul Soyan.
- Signature treatments and massages at Dasha SPA.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 627 – USD 670
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 3 Yanti Wulai Shiang, Wulai District, New Taipei City, Taiwan
Wulai Pause Landis Resort
Utter indulgence awaits at Wulai Pause Landis Resort, which offers uniquely themed guest rooms that effortlessly combine Asian and Western influences. Many of these rooms, such as the Brooks Room and Cloud Room, also have private hot springs. Book the multi-level Pause Room for a spacious apartment with a separate living room.
Relax your mind and body at the on-site hot spring, which has various private bath rooms overlooking the mountains. You can also enjoy gourmet dining at the Inkstone Tea House or Pause Restaurant, the latter of which serves authentic local cuisine. Outside, you’ll find Wulai Atayal Aboriginal Village and the Wulai Scenic Train five minutes away.
Hotel Highlights
- Private spa suites with personal hot springs.
- Multiple on-site dining options.
- Nestled on the edge of Guishan Dam.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 266 – USD 395
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: No.88, Sec. 5, Xinwu Rd, Wulai District, New Taipei City, Taiwan
Hotel Location
4. Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is arguably the most magnificent area in Taiwan to see cherry blossoms. The eight-kilometre-square lake, the largest in Taiwan, is encircled by forested mountains and lakeside townships and parks filled with pink sakura blooms. Sun Moon Lake is also the site of an annual cherry blossom festival in February, which features poetry, dancing and live music.
Why You Should go to Sun Moon Lake
- See the cherry blossoms from a boat on the water.
- The annual Sun Moon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival.
- The cherry blossom forests at National Chi Nan University.
Top Hotels near Sun Moon Lake
Fleur de Chine Hotel
Nestled on the northern shoreline of Sun Moon Lake, the luxury Fleur de Chine Hotel is home to one of the first-ever hot springs discovered in the region. The divine Mountain Mist Hot Spring is part of the Water World leisure facility, which also includes a hydrotherapy pool, swimming pool, children’s play area and sunbathing platform. You also have access to a fully-equipped gym, rock climbing wall and regular cultural performances at the Amphitheater.
The rooms either overlook mountains or Sun Moon Lake and range from Classic Family rooms with two queen-size beds to Tatami rooms with traditional furnishings. Lavish suites have lake vistas, while almost all the accommodation options include private balconies.
Hotel Highlights
- Lakeside cocktails at Sky Lounge or fresh teppanyaki grill at Rainbow Cloud.
- The private rooftop terrace, in-room hot spring and separate living room in the Presidential Suite.
- Around one kilometre from Songbailun Natural Park.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 306 – USD 1,068
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 23 Zhongzheng Road, Sun Moon Lake, Shueshe Village, Taiwan
The Lalu Sun Moon Lake
The Lalu Sun Moon Lake has earned a high rating on HotelsCombined with its alluring pool and delectable on-site dining. You can dine on gourmet Chinese cuisine at The Lake View Chinese Restaurant or contemporary Western and Asian fare at The Oriental Brasseries. Relax with a signature treatment in Lalu SPA, then lounge by the sun-drenched pool or browse handmade goods at Lalu Gifts.
Rest in the serene atmosphere of one of the Lakeview Suites, which feature separate living rooms, two bedrooms, natural furnishings and private balconies overlooking Sun Moon Lake. Alternatively, splurge on the Courtyard Pool Villa, which boasts a fireplace, kitchen and a 12-metre-long pool.
Hotel Highlights
- Traditional seating and meticulously prepared meals at The Japanese Restaurant.
- The signature LALU Classic Massage overlooking Sun Moon Lake at Lalu SPA.
- A short walk from the Sun Moon Lake Circular Walk trail.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 582 – USD 1,068
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 142 Jungshan Road, Shueshe Village, Taiwan
Hotel Location
5. Cingjing Farm
Cingjing Farm, also known as Qingjing Farm, is a magical place to soak up Taiwan’s cherry blossom season, thanks to the iconic Sakura Trail. This 500-metre-long boardwalk leads you to a collection of cherry blossom trees that create a ceiling of pink above you. Cingjing Farm is also renowned for its sheep feeding and petting at Guanshan Pastoral Area and historical exhibits within the Veteran Museum.
Why You Should go to Cingjing Farm
- A 15-minute walk beneath cherry blossoms on the Sakura Trail.
- Home to other natural attractions, including an Ecological Garden and Small Swiss Garden.
- Various walking trails with views of the region’s most alluring natural spoils.
Top Hotels near Cingjing Farm
Florence Resort Villa
Under a 10-minute drive from Cingjing Farm, Florence Resort Villa has its own cherry blossom trees and beautiful views of the countryside. The historic building features exposed-brick walls and offers modern comforts, including a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gym and sauna. You can also dine inside the rustic on-site restaurant, which serves dishes made with local produce.
Enjoy modern or antique decor in the rooms, many of which capture mountain views through floor-to-ceiling windows. The European-style decor complements the high ceilings, plush beds, spacious sitting areas and LCD TVs. Outside you’ll find a variety of walking trails, including the Cuihu Trail and Cryptomeria Trail.
Hotel Highlights
- The private balcony, LCD TV and fridge in the Venice Deluxe View Double Room.
- Rustic on-site dining and numerous leisure facilities.
- A short drive from Cingjing Farm.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 122 – USD 306
Guest Rating: 8
Address: No 3-8 Rongguang Lane, Ren-ai Township, Taiwan
Cingjing Vienna Pleasance Cottage
Surround yourself with captivating mountain scenery at Cingjing Vienna Pleasance Cottage, also called Vienna Garden Chalet. This charming bed and breakfast showcases classic European wooden houses with floor-to-ceiling windows. It also boasts a restaurant overlooking the countryside and a six-hectare farm with vegetables, fruit and tea.
There are only nine rooms at this private cottage, some of which boast private balconies or patios. The Howard Huaying Xi Family Room offers a furnished balcony, a king-size bed and three standard beds, while the Romantic Valentine’s Room has a balcony, four-poster bed and shower bath.
Hotel Highlights
- Intimate bed and breakfast with only nine rooms.
- Within a 15-minute walk from Cingjing Farm.
- On-site restaurant pairing local fare with panoramic mountain views.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 84 – USD 209
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: No.8-3 Rongguang Lane, Ren-ai Township, Taiwan
Hotel Location
6. Wuling Farm
Surrounded by mountains, forests and rivers, Wuling Farm is known for its picturesque hiking trails, flower gardens and high mountain tea plantations. The farm is one of the best places in Taiwan to capture cherry blossoms along the water, with many sakura trees blooming around March. You’ll also find a variety of native animals around Wuling Farm, including 20 types of birds.
Why You Should go to Wuling Farm
- See cherry blossom blooms along the river.
- On-site camping and dining.
- Grants access to the scenic Taoshan Falls.
Top Hotels near Wuling Farm
Lishan Guest House
Immerse yourself in traditional Taiwanese culture at Lishan Guest House, which is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees. The affordable rooms come in a variety of configurations capable of accommodation up to six guests. One room has two plush queen-size beds and two single beds, along with a separate living and dining room and private balcony overlooking the mountains.
Less than an hour’s drive from Wuling Farm, Lishan Guest House also offers excellent attractions nearby, including the Lishan Ecological Trail and numerous scenic outlooks. The small township of Lishan also has a handful of tea stores and family-run restaurants serving regional fare.
Hotel Highlights
- An authentically Taiwanese hotel overlooking the mountains.
- A variety of room options for couples, families and friends.
- Close to lookouts and walking trails.
Star Rating: 3.5*
Price: USD 130 – USD 210
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: No.91, Zhongzheng Rd, Heping District, Taichung City, Taiwan
Hoya Resort Hotel Wuling
Located at Wuling Farm, no hotel offers better access to the cherry blossoms than Hoya Resort Hotel Wuling. This luxe hotel boasts an on-site spa with relaxing treatments and massages, along with a restaurant dishing up sumptuous breakfast buffets.
The rooms at Hoya Resort Hotel Wuling offer modern amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, tiled bathrooms and comfortable beds. Certain rooms also have window seating and views out over the surrounding countryside. A short drive up Wuling Road, you’ll find the Wuling National Forest Recreation Area, which has numerous hiking trails.
Hotel Highlights
- Modern rooms for an affordable price.
- On-site buffet dining and a rejuvenating spa.
- Located at Wuling Farm.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 156 – USD 244
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: No.3-16, Wuling Rd., Heping District, Taichung City, Taiwan
Hotel Location
Discover the Natural Bliss of Cherry Blossoms in Taiwan
Taiwan is one of the world’s most overlooked destinations for cherry blossoms. These are just some of the best areas to witness the pink sakura blooms around the country, many of which offer plenty of reasons to visit year-round. They’re also positioned near inviting accommodation options, which have luxurious perks like on-site hot springs, spas and restaurants.
Where do you want to see the cherry blossoms in Taiwan? Let us know in the comments below.
