The most captivating season at the beginning of each year is cherry blossom season. Many people even travel to Japan specifically to see cherry blossoms, while a few might consider visiting South Korea. However, Taiwan has its own share of cherry blossom forests that can rival international destinations, although they are often nestled in mountainous areas like Yangmingshan or Sihmaqkus. In New Taipei, one of the largest cherry blossom forests is undoubtedly the Big Bear Cherry Blossom Forest in Sanxia, a place so well-known that even asking an elderly local would likely yield information about it.
What sets this cherry blossom season apart is the wide variety of cherry blossom species on display, allowing visitors to enjoy them from January through March. The Big Bear Cherry Blossom Forest provides regular updates on the blooming varieties and their blooming percentages via their official Facebook page. For those who want to ensure they don't miss the blossoms, checking these updates in advance is a wise choice. Among the cherry blossom species to be admired are tricolor cold cherry blossoms, Formosan cherry blossoms (white cherry blossoms), perfumed cherry blossoms (pink tunnel), Taiwan Yaezakura, Yoshino cherry blossoms, Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms, and Sumizome Yoshino cherry blossoms. The official page constantly updates the current blooming varieties and their percentages. For those who can't remember all these names, just checking the updates is the quickest way!
In terms of transportation, you can drive or ride a motorcycle there. However, be cautious as the roads are not very wide, especially in the mountainous terrain. Parking and passing can be tricky, and when the parking lot is full, you may have to park on a slope and walk a bit. Traffic jams are common, especially on weekends, so it's advisable to visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds and ensure a better viewing experience. (It seems that Hsinchu Bus Corporation provides shuttle services, which could be considered. Make sure to plan your transportation in advance. Taking a taxi to go up is not recommended as you may have trouble finding a taxi for the return journey.)
After parking, the path leading to the entrance is predominantly sloped and unpaved. It can be challenging and slippery during rainy days.
Admission is $120 per person, and it's uncertain whether there will be a price increase. This place also offers the opportunity to view nighttime cherry blossoms!
This area has restrooms and snack stalls. You can also borrow hiking poles for free. Even though there are ground mats, there is still a possibility of slipping, especially since it's a mountainous terrain with uphill and downhill stretches. It's not recommended for elderly individuals to visit, as there is a certain level of risk involved. If they do visit, it's essential to have someone accompany them, as some of the slopes can be quite tiring to climb.
When we visited, we also saw cherry blossoms in different colors, although some had already started to wither. The entire area in full bloom was indeed spectacular, with different styles and color atmospheres in various sections. It lets you enjoy cherry blossoms to your heart's content, and by the end, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. Whichever path you choose, it's going to make you work up a sweat! It's definitely worth a visit for the cherry blossoms, but be prepared for some hiking. It's a great way to combine flower viewing with a good workout!
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