Botanical Garden of National Museum of Nature Science

Taichung, Taiwan, Taiwan

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The Botanical Garden of the National Museum of Natural Science (often called Taichung Botanical Garden) is a 4.5-hectare urban oasis in the North District of Taichung, Taiwan, that serves as part of the National Museum of Natural Science complex.

It was completed in 1999 to help city dwellers experience Taiwan's native plants up close, since modern urbanites are often unfamiliar with Taiwan's native vegetation types. The garden has two main parts: an outdoor area showcasing Taiwan's lowland vegetation divided into plant ecology exhibit areas, and the Tropical Rainforest Greenhouse, which is the garden's centerpiece and most visible landmark.

Inside this towering 40-meter-high greenhouse, visitors can explore a simulated rainforest environment containing about 300 to 500 species of tropical rainforest plants from around the world, including orchids, bromeliads, coffee and cocoa trees, arranged in themed sections like towering trees, palm slopes, and river valley wetlands. The greenhouse's air-conditioned basement houses a 14-foot aquarium featuring Amazon River fish such as giant arapaima (象魚) and piranha, along with displays of poison frogs.

Outdoor admission is free while the greenhouse requires NT$20, and it is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. The garden provides a peaceful, tranquil space for leisurely strolls with ponds and peaceful paths, making it a compact green escape worth exploring in the heart of Taichung.