The mountain forests of Taichung’s Heping District are welcoming a new kind of winter scenery this year. The fifth Valley Light Festival, organized by the Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area Administration, will light up Guguan Park on November 29 and later illuminate Lishan on December 21 with two towering 28-meter cedar Christmas trees, marking the beginning of the winter light-viewing season.

This year’s festival features the theme “Christmas Hot Spring Fun,” combining forest hot springs, cedar Christmas trees, and immersive light installations. In Guguan, aside from creative lantern displays, a special “Stone Creek Butterfly” zone inspired by the Purple Crow Butterfly and Taiwan’s endemic species creates an atmosphere blending light, shadow, and nature.

At the high-altitude Lishan area, the two giant Christmas trees act as landmarks. The lighting ceremony will include sound-and-light shows, musical performances, and a local produce market, inviting visitors to enjoy illuminations, autumn foliage, and high-mountain treats such as honey apples and snow pears. The event runs from December 21 to January 25.With both the Guguan and Lishan zones lighting up in succession, the festival transforms the mountain towns into a dazzling winter landscape filled with music and light. (Photo courtesy of Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area Administration)

Organizers remind visitors that the event takes place in a mountainous area with low nighttime temperatures and winding roads. Travelers are advised to dress warmly and plan their transportation and accommodation in advance. Guests who upload photos to the official page can redeem limited gifts, adding fun to the winter experience.

As the festival becomes a must-visit winter attraction, Guguan and Lishan shine not only with color but also with a new style of tourism—transitioning from hot springs and autumn leaves to a nighttime journey of light that enriches central Taiwan’s mountain landscape.