The camphor trees lining the road were primarily planted in 1940 to celebrate the Japanese Emperor's 2,600th year of the legendary founding of Japan.
The route serves as a literal bridge between Mingjian Township and the historic town of Jiji.
The Jiji Branch Line train tracks run immediately adjacent to the tunnel, allowing for synchronized photos of the train passing through the tree canopy.
Camphor trees were historically significant in Taiwan as a primary source for camphor oil extraction during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Jiji Green Tunnel is a 4.5-kilometer stretch of County Highway 152 in Nantou County characterized by a dense canopy of over 1,000 mature camphor trees planted during the 1940s. The tunnel runs parallel to the Jiji Branch Line, a historic railway track that remains operational for sightseeing trains. Sunlight filters through the interlaced branches, creating a natural light-and-shadow effect across the road surface. The area serves as a shared thoroughfare for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. It connects the township of Mingjian to the town of Jiji, acting as a scenic gateway into the Nantou region. The camphor trees provide significant shade, keeping the route cooler than surrounding open areas during summer months.
The intersection where the Jiji Branch Line railway crosses or runs parallel to the road, providing a clear view of the tunnel canopy.
Rent a bicycle in Jiji town to experience the tunnel at a slower, more immersive pace than by car.
Watch for motor vehicle traffic as this is an active public road, not a dedicated pedestrian-only path.
Visit during the early morning to catch the light filtering through the canopy before the midday heat.
Attempting to stop a car in the middle of the road for photos, which blocks active traffic.
Stay on the designated cycling/walking paths where available; remain vigilant for passing vehicles.
