Yushan National Park

Yushan Overview

Yushan National Park, also known as 玉山國家公園 (Yùshān Guójiā Gōngyuán) in Mandarin, is a breathtaking expanse of wilderness in Taiwan. Spanning an area of 1,052 square kilometers (406 square miles), the park is located in central Taiwan, straddling the counties of Nantou, Chiayi, Kaohsiung, and Hualien. The park is named after its crown jewel, Yushan or Jade Mountain, which rises to 3,952 meters (12,966 feet) above sea level, making it the highest peak in Taiwan and Northeast Asia. This mountain, along with its surrounding peaks, defines the park’s dramatic alpine landscape.

Yushan National Park is characterized by its diverse terrain, which ranges from lush subtropical forests at lower altitudes to alpine meadows and craggy, windswept ridges near its summits. The park is rich in geological features, including sharp ridgelines, deep valleys, and spectacular waterfalls such as Yunlong Waterfall. The vegetation varies significantly with elevation; lower areas are dominated by subtropical forests filled with camphor and Taiwan red cypress, while higher altitudes feature alpine plants like junipers and rhododendrons, particularly stunning during their seasonal bloom.

The park is a haven for wildlife, with a remarkable variety of species, some of which are endemic to Taiwan. Visitors may encounter Formosan black bears, a symbol of Taiwan’s wilderness, or spot the elusive Formosan sambar deer. Smaller mammals such as the Formosan rock macaque and yellow-throated marten also inhabit the park. Bird enthusiasts can look forward to observing the Mikado pheasant and Swinhoe’s pheasant, both endemic to Taiwan, as well as a host of other avian species like the white-throated laughingthrush and the Taiwan barwing. The park’s ecological richness extends to its amphibians, reptiles, and insects, adding further layers of biodiversity to this natural treasure.

Popular features of Yushan National Park include its hiking trails, which cater to a wide range of abilities. The climb to Yushan’s summit is a favorite among adventurers, offering unparalleled views at sunrise. Other popular areas include the Tatajia Recreation Area, which provides easier access to scenic viewpoints, and Walami Trail, which passes through lush forests and historical sites from Taiwan’s Japanese colonial period. In addition to hiking, visitors engage in birdwatching, photography, and cultural exploration of indigenous Bunun heritage.

Conservation efforts in Yushan National Park have achieved significant successes, particularly in protecting endangered species and maintaining the park’s ecological integrity. Challenges remain, including managing the impact of tourism and combating climate change, which threatens the park’s fragile alpine ecosystems. Nevertheless, the park authorities work diligently to balance conservation with sustainable visitor experiences, ensuring that Yushan remains a pristine sanctuary for generations to come.

Park Map

Yushan National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Yushan National Park, located in Taiwan, is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning mountainous landscapes. The park is home to a variety of unique and fascinating species, reflecting the subtropical and alpine ecosystems of the region. Below are some of the more popular species found in Yushan National Park, excluding birds and vegetation.

Formosan Black Bear
The Formosan black bear, also known as the Taiwanese black bear, is an iconic species of Taiwan. Recognizable by the white, crescent-shaped mark on its chest, this bear is a symbol of conservation in the region. It is a skilled climber and primarily inhabits forested areas.

Formosan Rock Macaque
This species is Taiwan’s only native monkey. Formosan rock macaques are social primates often seen in groups, foraging for fruits, seeds, and insects in the park’s forests and mountainous areas.

Formosan Sambar Deer
A large deer species, the Formosan sambar deer is known for its majestic antlers and ability to thrive in rugged, mountainous terrain. They are shy and typically active during dawn and dusk.

Taiwan Serow
This goat-antelope species is a common sight in the park’s rocky areas. The Taiwan serow is highly adaptable, with its stout build and surefootedness allowing it to navigate steep slopes with ease.

Formosan Wild Boar
A smaller relative of the Eurasian wild boar, the Formosan wild boar is known for its tough hide and ability to forage for roots, tubers, and small invertebrates in the forest undergrowth.

Taiwanese Weasel
This elusive predator is known for its sleek body and reddish fur. Taiwanese weasels are skilled hunters, feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Taiwanese Leopard Cat
A rare and shy feline, the Taiwanese leopard cat is nocturnal and inhabits dense forests and grasslands. It is a solitary predator, preying on rodents and small birds.

Yellow-throated Marten
Known for its striking yellow throat and chest, the yellow-throated marten is a highly agile mammal that thrives in both forests and open terrains, feeding on fruits, insects, and small animals.

Asian Black Bear
Also found in Yushan, the Asian black bear is larger than its Formosan counterpart and shares similar habits, including tree-climbing and a diet of fruits, nuts, and small animals.

Chinese Pangolin
This scaly mammal is a unique resident of the park. The Chinese pangolin feeds on ants and termites, using its long tongue and powerful claws to access insect nests.

Birds

Yushan National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with its diverse habitats supporting an incredible variety of bird species, many of which are endemic to Taiwan. Below are ten of the most popular bird species in the park.

Mikado Pheasant
An elegant and colorful bird, the Mikado pheasant is an endemic species and a symbol of Taiwan’s wildlife. It prefers forested areas and is most active during dawn and dusk.

Swinhoe’s Pheasant
This striking pheasant is another endemic species, recognizable by its iridescent plumage and white tail feathers. It thrives in dense forests and is a sought-after sighting for bird enthusiasts.

Taiwan Blue Magpie
Known as “long-tailed mountain lady,” this bird is easily recognized by its vivid blue body, long tail, and bold behavior. It is highly social and often seen in groups.

White-whiskered Laughingthrush
This endemic bird is a common sight in the park’s higher elevations. Its cheerful calls and social nature make it a favorite among visitors.

Taiwan Barwing
A small, brownish-gray bird, the Taiwan barwing is endemic to Taiwan’s montane forests. Its distinct bar markings on the wings are a key feature.

Collared Bush Robin
This charming robin is endemic to Taiwan and thrives in alpine and montane areas. Its melodious song adds to the serene atmosphere of the park.

Taiwan Fulvetta
A tiny and active bird, the Taiwan fulvetta is often seen flitting about in flocks. It inhabits dense undergrowth in montane forests.

Steere’s Liocichla
Endemic to Taiwan, this bird is notable for its vibrant plumage with shades of green, red, and yellow. It is a common sight in the park’s forests.

Taiwan Scimitar Babbler
Named for its curved bill, this bird is an endemic species with distinctive streaked plumage. It prefers dense forests and bamboo thickets.

Flamecrest
The flamecrest, also known as the Taiwan firecrest, is a small bird with striking orange and yellow markings on its head. It is one of Taiwan’s most iconic alpine bird species.