Purple Butterfly Valley (紫蝶幽谷) is not the name of a certain place but a biological phenomenon, which specifically refers to purple butterfly inhabiting in groups to overcome the winter.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Purple Butterfly Valleys in Taiwan mainly appears in Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and at intermediate and low altitudes in Taidong’s mountains. The Maolin area features the highest density of for Purple Butterfly Valleys, including 7 official observation zones. Due to the wide distribution and multiple entrances and trails, it is recommended to inquire for the proper routes at the district office ahead of the actual visit.

Image: Tourism Bureau, M.O.T.

The special velvety wings of purple butterfly change colors depending on the position of the observers and different light angle. Japanese entomologists were in awe of the butterflies’ wonderful and brilliant poses, calling them the “magic light.”

Image: Wikimedia Commons

To fully appreciate the beauty of butterflies in Maolin, arrange the visit in the morning when the butterflies are the most active, busy at consuming fresh dew and sweet nectar. It takes the right weather, place and people to appreciate the lively butterflies. Avoid making any noise, it will be an obstacle and mood killer for the observation.

Image: Tourism Bureau, M.O.T.

Edited by Shawn Chou

This content is sponsored by Tourism Bureau of the Kaohsiung City Government.

Additional Reading

♦ Eco-Tourism off Jiangjun’ao Isle
♦ 7 Places to Inhale Snowy Fragrance on The Tropical Island
♦ A Home, A Factory, A Microcosm of Taiwan’s Economy