Stretching nearly five kilometers along the banks of the Dongluo River (東螺溪) in Changhua County, from Pitou Township to Erlin Township, lies Taiwan's longest and most breathtaking kapok flower path with over 600 kapok trees. During the peak blooming season in March, the trees form a continuous tunnel of dazzling orange-red blossoms. The connected kapok paths in Pitou and Erlin create a spectacle reminiscent of fiery flames painting the sky. The captivating scenery along the path has water-filled rice paddies on one side and the Dongluo River mirroring the striking blossoms on the other, attracting numerous flower enthusiasts from across Taiwan. In the other hand, Zhutang offers a hidden gem of kapok flowers. This spot, smaller in scale, lies discreetly amidst the fields, requiring visitors to climb over a levee to access it. Its tranquil and secluded ambiance has made it a beloved destination for springtime outings.
Recommended flower viewing locations: Dongluo Riverbanks (Pitou section, Erlin section), Zhutang Kapok Flower Path (flower conditions may vary depending on the weather).
The kapok tree, scientifically known as Bombax ceiba, is a perennial deciduous species native to tropical and subtropical regions. It generally reaches heights of 10 to 25 meters with an upright trunk characterized by striking thorn-like protrusions, earning it the nickname "Hero Tree." The kapok tree offers a striking transformation through each of the four seasons. In spring, it bursts into life with vibrant orange-red blossoms. During the summer months, its dense, green foliage provides a generous canopy of shade. As autumn arrives, the leaves fall away, leaving behind the bare, elegant structure of its branches in winter. However, it is in March that the kapok tree reaches the peak of its beauty with large, fiery orange-yellow or orange-red flowers. These blossoms carry a symbolic message, which expresses the sentiment of cherishing the people and happiness in your life. The blooming period lasts for approximately one month.
Photography by 陳金能
The Dongluo River, also called the Old Jhuoshuei River (舊濁水溪), is the lifeblood of southern Changhua's thriving agriculture. Its waters nurture the famed high-quality rice of Pitou and Erlin townships, earning it the affectionate title of the "Mother River of Changhua." The riverbanks are adorned with a variety of flowering trees, complemented by a dedicated bicycle path. Recent improvements in water quality have revitalized the area, turning it into an increasingly popular tourist destination. Each March, the Dongluo River Kapok Flower Season brings an explosion of vibrant orange-red blooms that reach skyward, offering a breathtaking and majestic spectacle. This vivid display heralds the arrival of spring, embodying its passionate energy and life-affirming spirit.
The Pitou Kapok Flower Path is located along Section 2 of Jiuxi Road (舊溪路). After getting off at the Beidou Exit on National Highway No. 1, take a left turn, the signs to this scenic destination are available after passing through the underpass. In springtime, the chinaberry trees across the river bloom in delicate purple hues, creating a stunning contrast against the vibrant orange kapok blossoms. As you continue down the road, rows of kapok trees line both sides, forming a breathtaking tunnel of orange-red flowers in full bloom.
At road bends and bridges, the reflection of the kapok trees in the water presents an enchanting scene reminiscent of poetic lines: "Exotic blooms ascend toward the midpoint of the heavens, their fiery hues in delicate contrast with the gentle blush of rosy clouds above." Beyond the river lies an expansive landscape of verdant rice paddies, which offer a striking visual complement to the brilliant orange blossoms.
Heading westward, the Pitou Kapok Flower Path seamlessly connects to the Erlin Kapok Flower Path. Typically, the bloom in Pitou begins earlier, followed by the peak flowering period in Erlin. Together, they form the longest flower path in Taiwan. The Erlin section can be accessed via Daima Bridge (代馬橋) and Xihu Bridge (溪湖橋) — both regular roads, so be mindful of traffic when exploring this floral wonder.
The kapok flowers’ rich, vibrant red is bold yet elegant. Visitors often gather the fallen blooms to arrange artistic patterns for photographs. After a spring rain, the ground transforms into a vivid orange-red carpet of flowers, offering the perfect opportunity to capture unforgettable images.
For those seeking hidden spots, Zhutang Township features a "secret gem" kapok flower path. Located at the farmland on the north bank of the Jhuoshuei River, this secluded spot requires a short trek along a levee. Stretching approximately 100 meters, this row of 30 to 40 kapok trees was initially planted by Chen ZhangHuan 25 years ago to provide shade. Over the years, these humble trees have transformed into a stunning showcase of vibrant beauty amidst the rice fields, captivating visitors with their striking and unexpected allure.
Photography by 何南輝
Photography by 謝瑞家
