Yushan National Park

Yushan National Park is a nature reserve in central Taiwan that spans four counties and includes dense forests, deep valleys, and the island's highest summit. The landscape ranges from subtropical zones on lower slopes to alpine regions near the peaks, where vegetation thins and rock formations dominate.

The park was established in 1985 to protect Taiwan's mountain ecosystems and endangered wildlife. This decision followed earlier logging activities in the region, which had taken place during previous decades.

The name Yushan means Jade Mountain and reflects the early perception of the summit, which appears green under certain light conditions. Visitors today encounter signs of the Bunun connection to these mountains at different locations throughout the park, visible in place names and traditional paths.

Hikers should arrange permits online before visiting, as many trails require advance booking. Conditions change sharply with altitude, and warm clothing is advisable even in summer when visiting upper zones.

More than thirty summits within the park exceed the three thousand meter mark, forming the densest cluster of tall mountains on the island. This concentration makes the area a popular goal for mountaineers aiming to reach multiple high peaks during a single stay.

Location: Nantou County

Location: Chiayi County

Location: Kaohsiung

Location: Hualien County

Inception: April 10, 1985

Operator: 內政部營建署玉山國家公園管理處

Website: http://ysnp.gov.tw/en

GPS coordinates: 23.47000,120.95727

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:23