Dongshi Forest Culture Park
Taiwan · Taichung · 東勢區 · Nature & Scenery
Image source: Taiwan_Opendata; license credits as shown.
Overview
The Daxueshan forest area was rich in timber resources. To make proper use of these resources, generate economic returns, and promote local prosperity, the Daxueshan Forestry Company was established in 1956, and construction of a large sawmill began in 1962 and was completed in 1964. At that time, advanced logging and sawmilling technology was introduced, creating a model forestry industry in Taiwan. Mechanical logging and truck transport of logs improved efficiency and output. The large sawmill was completed and opened on May 26, 1964, and after nearly 10 years of prosperity, it ended timber production in the Daxueshan forest area ahead of schedule because American-style sawmill equipment was not suitable for domestic logs and caused heavy timber loss. It ceased operations at the end of December 1973.
Getting There
[By car]: Take National Freeway 1 or National Freeway 3, transfer to National Freeway 4 East-West Expressway, exit at Fengyuan Interchange, then follow Provincial Highway 3 toward Dongshi. After crossing Dongshi Bridge, turn onto Provincial Highway 8 toward Guguan for about 2 kilometers. [By car] The entrance on Dongguan Road (Provincial Highway 8) to Dongshi Forest Culture Park is temporarily closed. Please enter via Dongkeng Road.: During the construction period for the park’s “entrance landscape and parking lot improvement project,” the Dongguan Road (Provincial Highway 8) entrance is temporarily closed. Please use the Dongkeng Road entrance instead. [Public transportation] By bus: During the construction period at the Dongguan Road entrance, take Fengyuan Bus routes 250, 251, or 252 to the “Daxueshan Back Gate” stop, then enter from the Dongkeng Road entrance.
Highlights
・Formerly the Daxueshan Forestry Company, this was once the largest sawmill in East Asia in the 1960s, fully documenting Taiwan’s forestry industry development and the history of mechanized logging. ・The park preserves industrial relics such as the sawmill area, sawmill equipment, and timber transport facilities, serving as an outdoor classroom for understanding the evolution of forestry technology and the use of domestic timber. ・Combining natural ecology, a lotus pond, and shaded walking trails, the park offers both nostalgic industrial scenery and a relaxed forest-strolling atmosphere among old facilities. ・Woodcarving art, driftwood creations, and parent-child learning activities are introduced throughout the park, emphasizing the circular use of timber and environmental education, making it suitable for families and school groups. ・Its location is a key route to Guguan, Basianshan, and Daxueshan National Forest Recreation Areas, making it a convenient stopover on mountain trips along Provincial Highway 8.
What to See
・Large Sawmill and Old Factory Area The remains of the large sawmill, which once introduced American-style integrated processing equipment, are the park’s main highlight. Visitors can observe the former processes of mechanized logging, timber transport, and sawmilling, and experience the industrial scale and historical atmosphere of forestry’s golden age. ・Forestry Machinery and Timber Transport Facilities The park displays various logging and timber transport machines, supported by interpretive signs explaining how they were used and what work looked like in that era. It is an important on-site teaching resource for understanding the modernization of Taiwan’s forestry technology. ・Lotus Pond and Lakeside Scenery The area beside the sawmill has been planned as a lake and lotus pond landscape. When lotus flowers are in bloom in summer, they reflect the blue sky and old factory buildings, creating a unique scene where industrial remains and natural beauty intertwine, ideal for walking and photography. ・Shaded Trails and Ecological Environment The park is crisscrossed with shaded walking trails, where visitors can enjoy a variety of tree species and bird activity. It offers a comfortable strolling route and allows visitors to experience the ecological atmosphere of the lower Daxueshan forest area. ・Woodcarving and Driftwood Art Sculptures made from timber and driftwood are scattered throughout the park, showcasing timber reuse and local artistic creativity while adding interest for photography and appreciation. ・Lakeside Cafe and Rest Area The lakeside area includes a cafe and light-meal space inspired by mountain and forest imagery. Visitors can enjoy a drink and dessert while overlooking the water, making it a good place to experience a slow-paced mountain forest afternoon.
Hours & Admission
Parking: Large vehicles: free of charge; the original parking lot is undergoing improvement works, with 4 temporary spaces. Small vehicles: free of charge; the original parking lot is undergoing improvement works, with 41 temporary small-vehicle spaces and 2 accessible parking spaces.
Address
No. 1368, Section 6, Dongguan Road, Dongshi District, Taichung City 423 Phone: (04)25774146
Travel Tips
・Recommended Visit Time It is generally recommended to allow about 2–3 hours to walk through the forestry history area, the factory buildings, the lotus pond, and the shaded trails at a relaxed pace. ・Best Season and Time to Visit The scenery is richest from late spring to summer when the lotus flowers are in bloom, making it ideal for photography and outdoor walks. Morning and afternoon light are softer and temperatures are more comfortable, making them good times for strolling and taking photos. ・Transport and Route Tips The park is located near the start of Provincial Highway 8, so it works well as a side trip before or after visiting Guguan, Basianshan, or Daxueshan National Forest Recreation Areas. Drivers can use it as a rest stop during mountain travel to recharge before heading up or down the mountain. ・Clothing and Gear Comfortable walking shoes and breathable clothing are recommended for moving around the park trails. In summer, the sun can be strong, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and enough water; during the rainy season, bring rain gear in case afternoon showers affect your trip. ・Visit and Safety Notes The lakeside trail is mainly for pedestrians. Please do not ride bicycles on the trail, in accordance with park rules, to protect pedestrian safety and maintain the environment’s tranquility. When visiting the old factory buildings and machinery displays, pay attention to uneven ground and warning signs, and supervise children carefully. ・Guided Tours and Learning Experience If you are interested in forestry history, check in advance whether there are regular guided tours or group reservation services. A guided tour can provide a more complete understanding of the rise and fall of Daxueshan forestry and its industrial story. Schools and groups can plan thematic visits that combine environmental education, timber recycling, and cultural landscape appreciation.
Nearby Dining
・Light Meals and Coffee in the Park The park has a cafe and light-meal space inspired by mountain and forest imagery, featuring local tea drinks and simple dishes. It is a suitable place to rest before or after a walk, where visitors can enjoy drinks and desserts while looking out over the lake. ・Mountain Products and Local Souvenirs There is also a space selling agricultural and specialty products from the surrounding mountain area, focusing on produce and processed goods from the Daxueshan region. It is a good place to pick up souvenirs or local snacks and experience the flavors of mountain villages at the foot of Daxueshan. ・Nearby Dining Suggestions For a full meal, consider driving or walking to Dongshi downtown or restaurants along Dongguan Road. There are many eateries, snack shops, and breakfast places nearby, making it easy to combine with a visit to the old town of Dongshi or local Hakka cultural attractions.
FAQ
Q: How much time should I plan for a visit to Dongshi Forest Culture Park? A: If you mainly want to walk, take photos, and visit the forestry history and factory areas, about 2–3 hours is recommended. If you also plan to rest at the cafe or join a guided explanation, the visit can be extended to a half-day trip. Q: Is there an admission fee or parking fee? A: Based on commonly available information, admission and parking are generally free, but fees may change depending on the management authority or operator. It is recommended to check the latest official announcement before departure. Q: Can I ride a bicycle into the park or on the lakeside trail? A: Some sections of the park allow bicycles to be walked through, but the lakeside trail is limited to pedestrians only. Please do not ride bicycles on the trail to protect pedestrian safety and trail quality. Q: Is it suitable for children or older adults? A: The park mostly consists of gentle shaded trails and open spaces, with woodcarvings, lakeside scenery, and old factory buildings to visit. It is relatively friendly for families and older adults, and is quite suitable for a half-day family walking trip as long as you pay attention to sun exposure and walking distance.