The first place that comes to your mind when you hear of ‘cherry blossom’ must be Japan, for most of the time. But, what if we tell you that this country in Southeast Asia is equally fun to be in during the cherry blossom season? Yes, we’re talking about Taiwan! The country is famous as a tourist destination in Southeast Asia, however, not many people know that cherry blossoms in Taiwan are an equally rewarding experience. So, take out your notes because we’re going to tell you everything about the Taiwan sakura season!
Cherry Blossom In Taiwan: Bloom Timings, Best Time To Visit, And Best Places To Visit
When Do Cherry Blossoms Bloom In Taiwan?
The climate of Taiwan is comparatively warmer than countries like South Korea and Japan. This means that cherry blossoms start blooming as early as January. These cherry blossoms last till April in certain areas of Taiwan. So, even if you miss out on the January to March period of viewing cherry blossoms, you can still enjoy the season in some regions.
The northernmost tip of Taiwan where Taipei is situated, experienced cherry blossoms from late January to late March. The cherry blossom season in the regions south of it, mainly Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Taichung began by February and ended by late March. Some areas in Taichung experienced cherry blossoms from early February to mid-March while some of them experienced it from late-February to late-March.
Alishan, one of the most popular destinations for cherry blossom viewing in Taiwan began its cherry blossom season in February and is still in full bloom (as of the first week of April 2025). It is expected that these blooms will cease by April.
Kindly note that weather forecasts for cherry blossoms in Taiwan differ each year, and are majorly influenced by weather conditions. Though, for the most part, the season broadly begins by January and ends by April.
Best Time To Visit Taiwan For Cherry Blossom
The cherry blossom season roughly spans from January to April, and most sites are in their peak cherry blossom season in late-February or early-March. This time is perfect if you wish to explore many of Taiwan’s cherry blossom spots, but it is also the peak tourist season. Alternatively, if you wish to visit only specific areas like Taipei City or Alishan, you can visit them when the cherry blossom season is just about to start in these respective areas. Regardless of which destination you are visiting, we recommend making your accommodation bookings in advance as these four months are some of the busiest for tourism in Taiwan.
Best Places To View Cherry Blossom In Taiwan
Alishan, Chiayi
This county is located in mid-South Taiwan, roughly at the center of the island country. The Alishan National Forest Recreational Area is home to about 19,000 cherry blossom trees! Yes, you heard it right! The area is famous for its Alishan narrow-gauge steam train that takes you on a 6-hour train ride through Taiwan’s scenic landscapes. It is a collection of high peaks that overlook the massif of the Yushan Mountains. The latter is Taiwan and Northeast Asia’s highest mountain.
However, this hill station is one of Taiwan’s most popular spots, so if you’re planning to visit it, make sure you book your hotel well in advance. Here you can go hiking, trekking, and visit the many temples in Alishan including the iconic Shouzhen Temple. From Chiayi, you can have a one-day trip to Alishan, however, many tourists stay there for 2 to 3 days to get mesmerizing views of the sunrise and cherry blossoms. In fact, many tourists stay overnight to experience the sunrise in Alishan and then go on about their Alishan steam train. Also, we highly recommend carrying appropriate winter clothing as the weather can be quite chilly.
Tickets to the train start from INR 764 onwards and are subject to availability, so when are you booking it?
Train Timings: 8:30 AM onwards
Taipei City And New Taipei City
While cherry blossom season has mostly ended in Taipei City, the city is one of the most popular destinations for the same. The national capital boasts of many streets and parks where cherry blossoms bloom in full swing. These include the likes of Pingjing Street, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, LOHAS Park, and Xiangshan Park among others.
Surrounding Taipei City is the New Taipei City known for its lush green landscapes. Here, make sure to visit the Wulai Waterfall and Wuji Tianyuan Temple. While you’re at Wulai, we highly recommend going in for a hot springs experience, as Wulai is famous for that.
Timings: Most of these sites are open for 24 hours.
Yangmingshan National Park
Situated about 14 kilometers (km) from Taipei City, the Yangmingshan National Park experiences cherry blossoms from mid-February to early-March. The national park is home to a variety of cherry blossom species scattered throughout its area. The Flower Clock area, the Shuilian Cave, and the area near the bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek are some of the most insta-worthy attractions you must clearly not miss out on. The park is also famous for its hot springs, so you can try going zen mode here!
Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Sun Moon Lake Cherry Blossoms Taiwan
This is Taiwan’s largest naturally occurring water body and gets its name from the distinct shape of the land mass inside the lake that makes it look like a crescent moon and a whole sun have been joined together. The blossoms generally bloom here from early February to early March, so tourists rush to this place for the experience in large numbers. While you’re here, we recommend taking the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway. You’ll be blessed with panoramic 360-degree views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Besides that, you can also try cycling on the Shuishang Bikeway, visit the Longfeng and Wenwu Temples, as well as the Yongjie Bridge.
Ropeway Timings: 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM (weekdays), 10:00 to 4:30 PM (weekends and holidays)
Hanshini Forest Recreational Area Cherry Blossoms
Just an hour’s drive away from Alishan, Hanshini Forest Recreational Area offers mindblowing views of cherry blossoms in Taiwan. The area is known for its Tai Chi Pavilion and the wooden footbridge leading up to it. As you stroll through the park, you’ll find cherry blossoms blooming in not just pink, but also in shades of white and fuchsia. It isn’t much famous amongst tourists, so you can visit this place for a relaxing cherry blossom experience. The blooms here are from mid-March to mid-April, making it perfect for those visiting Taiwan in April.
Timings: Open for 24 hours
Summing Up
With its white and pink hues, cherry blossoms in Taiwan are a season of joy and excitement. As the country envelops in a blanket of pink and white, it easily becomes one of Asia’s best destinations for a cherry blossom experience. Be it the streets of Taipei or the breathtaking Alishan steam train, these destinations offer a glimpse of some of the world’s most beautiful blossoms.
FAQs
Can You See Cherry Blossoms In Taipei?
Yes, absolutely! Taipei is home to some of the prettiest streets, parks, and riverfronts where you can get stunning views of cherry blossoms.
What To Wear In Taiwan In March?
We highly recommend that you carry appropriate winter clothing when visiting Taiwan in March. Most of the places are cool and get chilly as the day ends.
Is Taipei Safe For Tourists?
Yes, Taipei and Taiwan in general is known for being safe tourist destinations. The street crime rates are low and it is also quite safe for female, solo, or LGBTQIA+ travelers. However, it is best recommended to take necessary precautions to ensure your own safety.
