Journey To The Kingdom of Butterflies: Maolin National Scenic Area
Last Updated on March 26, 2025 by Erin Donahue
When most travelers think of Taiwan, bustling night markets and Taipei 101 typically come to mind. However, nestled in the southwestern part of this island nation lies one of its best-kept secrets: Maolin National Scenic Area (茂林國家風景區). This verdant sanctuary not only showcases Taiwan’s stunning natural landscapes but also hosts one of the world’s most remarkable butterfly migrations. As someone who specifically returned to Kaohsiung just to visit this area, I’m excited to share this hidden gem in Taiwan!
About Maolin National Scenic Area (茂林國家風景區)
Located at the western foothills of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, the Maolin National Scenic Area spans three river systems and encompasses some of the most diverse ecosystems in the country. This protected region offers a striking contrast to Taiwan’s urban cities, with its lush valleys, winding rivers, and dramatic mountain backdrops.
What makes Maolin truly special is how it blends natural wonders with cultural heritage. The scenic area’s protected status has preserved its pristine environment, making it an important conservation zone for Taiwan’s biodiversity. The area is also home to the Rukai tribe, one of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples with a rich history and distinctive traditions. Visitors to Maolin have the rare opportunity to experience both ecological marvels and cultural immersion in one destination.
The Purple Crow Butterfly
For those that don’t know, Taiwan earned the nickname the “Kingdom of Butterflies” because it’s home to 55 endemic species, and Maolin National Scenic Area hosts the “Purple Butterfly Valley”, the second-largest butterfly sanctuary in the world. While Mexico’s Monarch Butterfly Migration gets more international attention, Taiwan’s Purple Crow Butterfly migration is equally spectacular yet remains relatively unknown.
Every winter, from November through March, thousands of Purple Crow Butterflies (Euploea tulliolus) make their journey over winter in Maolin’s sheltered valleys. During peak migration, the tree-covered slopes transform into a mesmerizing spectacle as waves of dark purple butterflies cluster among the branches, creating living curtains that gently undulate with the breeze.
These butterflies are drawn to Maolin’s unique microclimate, which provides the perfect temperature, humidity, and vegetation for their winter habitat. The conservation of this species and their migration pattern has become an important focus for Taiwan’s environmental protection efforts
Best Times to Visit Maolin National Scenic Area
For nature enthusiasts, the optimal window is from November to March, with the earlier months typically offering the most impressive butterfly displays. However, as I learned during my January visit, weather conditions significantly impact butterfly activity. These delicate creatures prefer sunny days and tend to remain sheltered during cloudy, windy weather, which unfortunately was the case during my trip.
If seeing this butterfly spectacle is your primary goal, I recommend planning a flexible itinerary with at least three days allocated to the Maolin area and visiting between the hours of 8-11 am. This gives you a better chance of catching ideal weather conditions when the butterflies are most active.
How to get to Maolin National Scenic Area
Getting to Maolin National Scenic Area requires some planning, as it’s located about 90 minutes outside of Kaohsiung City.
By Car (Recommended): Hiring a driver or having your own rental car (or moped) provides the most flexibility for exploring the area.
By Public Transportation: While more challenging than driving, you can reach Maolin using Taiwan’s public transit system. Bus services run from Kaohsiung to the Maolin area, but schedules may be limited. Check the official Maolin National Scenic Area website or Kaohsiung’s public transportation information for the most current bus routes and timetables. Be sure to plan your return trip carefully as service may be infrequent.
Guided Tours: Several tour operators in Kaohsiung offer multi-day trips to the Maolin National Scenic Area. This option provides transportation and local expertise but offers less flexibility than having your own vehicle.
A True Hidden Gem in Taiwan
What struck me most about Maolin National Scenic Area is how it remains relatively unknown, even among Taiwanese locals. While international travelers flock to Taiwan’s urban areas and popular attractions like Taroko Gorge in Hualien, Maolin continues to fly under the radar. Making it a true hidden gem for those seeking authentic experiences away from tourist crowds.
This lack of international recognition has helped preserve Maolin’s natural environment, but it also means the area suffers from a lack of interest. Unlike some of Taiwan’s more popular destinations, you’ll rarely encounter large groups here, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature. The conservation efforts in Maolin also showcase Taiwan’s commitment to protecting its unique biodiversity. The annual butterfly migration serves as both a natural wonder and an important ecological indicator for the health of Taiwan’s ecosystems.
Final Thoughts on Maolin National Scenic Area
My journey to the Maolin National Scenic Area was the primary reason for returning to southern Taiwan. Despite not seeing the butterfly spectacle in its full glory due to weather conditions, I don’t regret my decision. This corner of Taiwan offers a glimpse into both natural wonders and cultural heritage that few international travelers experience, and all that means is I need to visit again.
If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan and want to venture beyond the usual tourist trail, consider adding Maolin National Scenic Area to your itinerary. Whether you’re there to witness the purple crow butterfly migration, hike through its scenic trails, or learn about Taiwan’s indigenous cultures, Maolin offers experiences that showcase Taiwan’s remarkable diversity. Just remember to allow enough time, and check weather forecasts if you’re hoping to see the butterflies. Some of the best travel experiences come from venturing off the beaten path!
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