Basianshan Forest Recreation Area boasts lavish forests and cozy weather. Abundant in natural resources and ecology, it was among the three largest forestry areas in Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period. The area was once home to many lumbermen at the peak of forestry industry. It was in fact a well-functioning community with a school, a hotel and a shrine. Hence, the area is now left with an intriguing forestry culture. There are three forest trails in Basianshan Forest Recreation Area. Beginning from the parking lot of Basian Villas, the first trail climbs uphill along Shiwen River. The second trail goes down the staircase to the dam, and the third trail passes through the woods and a bamboo forest to the remains of the Japanese shrine and the elementary school. Whichever route you pick, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the river, observe the nature and immense in a forest bath. If you feel like taking on a bigger physical challenge, you can hike Basianshan or Xinshan. When leaving Basianshan Forest Recreation Area, you can also stop by Guguan nearby for a hot spring bath and taste a special local refreshment, white pine juice ice.
