Abstract
In landscape planning, simulation of the landscape is a powerful tool for public understanding.
In the simulation, the reality of the simulated image is very important and recent progress in
computer graphics enables very precise simulation of landscapes. A walk-through simulation is
a new technique for accurately analyzing landscape resources and assessing visual impacts of
proposed plans. In this study, we integrated GIS and 3D animation techniques to develop an
animation system to show the landscape visualization of 5 types of forest trail in the Lienhuachi
Research Center,Taiwan Forestry Research Institute. Digital terrain models in the research area were
built using Lidar image. 3D object models were simulated using SketchUp 3D software, and delicate
3D plant models were constructed through Xfrog plant models. Then, simulated information was
displayed in the LandSim3D platform for walk-through images of forest trails. Moreover, scenario
designs on improvements to trail scenery for 2 forest trails selected were also animated. Results show
that the great applicability of the animation system can provide an efficient way to communicate with
the public about scenario designs of forest trail planning. It is expected that the 3D animation technique
developed in this study can be used in forest trail management in forest recreation areas.