Maple Tree Lake is located to the west of Datun Mountain Range, and it is the only area in Taiwan with the forest of Magnolia grandiflora which are so-called “lotuses growing in the trees.” For thousands of years, the plant has been respected and loved by Buddhists. The flower is also a valuable drug ingredient and spice, so it is quite precious. The flower has been around for over five decades, and it is taken good care of by local farmers. Over one thousand Magnolia grandiflora trees have been planted. Magnolia grandiflora looks like a lotus throne, and it is not commonly seen in Taiwan. At present, they are only grown in Chung Tai Chan Monastery, Ali Mountain and Fo Guang Shan (Buddha’s Light Mountain). However, a great number of Magnolia grandiflora can only be found by Maple Tree Lake in Tamsui. You do not want to miss the most mysterious and precious flowers in Taipei. Maple Tree Lake is actually not a lake. In the early days, there were six giant fragrant maple trees at the entrance. Additionally, the area is surrounded by mountains on its three sides, making it shape like a lake, so it is called Maple Tree Lake.
Taiwan cherry blossoms and camellias are planted nearby, and they make a sea of red and white flowers in spring. In recent years, it is free for tourists to admire these flowers, and the place has become a popular flower admiring spot during flowering seasons. Walking on the Maple Tree Lake trail, you can see several old trees over one hundred years old, such as bird lime tree, banyan, red cedar and so on. Additionally, the leaves of green maple trees grown along the trail turn red and fall in autumn, which is breathtaking. Another cherry blossom viewing spot is Tianyuan Temple. You can admire flowers at these two places to feast your eyes on the beautiful flowers.
