Travel Date: 2026/01/17
It’s been three years since our last visit to Meishan, and with plum blossom season arriving, we decided it was the perfect time to come back and check it out again.
We visited in mid-January, and at that time only about 30% of the plum trees were in bloom. While it was still nice to walk around, I’d honestly recommend waiting a little longer if you want to see the park at its most beautiful. The blossoms weren’t quite at their peak yet — but that didn’t stop the crowds. There were plenty of visitors, and finding a parking space was a bit of a challenge. It took us a while, so coming early or being prepared to wait is a good idea.
As every year, the entrance to the park was lively with vendors selling fresh local produce and street food. Inside, there were also stalls offering plum-related products, such as pickled plums and dried plums in a variety of flavors — always tempting and perfect as souvenirs.
One pleasant surprise was the weather. A recent cold front had finally eased, and the temperature reached around 25°C, which felt like a huge change after days of temperatures below 10°C. Walking through the park in warm sunshine made the visit much more enjoyable.
Meishan Park (梅山公園)
Meishan Park is located in the urban area of Meishan Township, Chiayi, and covers approximately 6 hectares. It was once known as one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Chiayi. The park was originally developed during the Japanese occupation period, when the first plum trees were planted. Over the years, the number of plum trees has grown to around 3,000, making it one of the most popular places in the region for plum blossom viewing.
Built on a hillside, the park features children’s play areas, flower terraces, walking trails, and landscaped viewpoints, making it a great place for relaxation and outdoor activities. It’s also a favorite spot for locals to exercise and spend time with family.
There is also a memorial dedicated to 74 national army soldiers who tragically lost their lives due to natural disasters. From the monument, you can continue walking uphill to the park’s highest point, Jieshou Pavilion, where you’ll find more shops selling snacks, plum products, and various preserves — a rewarding stop before heading back down.
