At the entrance of Yushan National Park in Taiwan, a saxophonist played on the roadside, his music blending with the rustle of leaves and cicadas. The scene captured the island’s close connection to nature. Hiking the historic Walami Trail, the writer and companion encountered few visitors, instead admiring mountain views, waterfalls, and wildlife before crossing a suspension bridge that felt far removed from city life.
Despite its remoteness, the park lies only a short cab ride from Hualien, a city of 100,000. Before arriving, the travelers knew little about Taiwan beyond its famous bubble tea, night markets, and Taipei 101. Conversations with locals revealed the country’s expansive forests and mountains that remain largely unknown to...