Chasing the misty sunrise on Alishan and soaking in the serenity of Sun Moon Lake

In Alishan, you're surrounded by misty mountains that give the entire region a mystical feel. One of the best experiences here is waking up before dawn to catch the famous Alishan Forest Railway. This century-old train takes you through dense forests and winding mountain paths as you ascend to Zhushan Station, a prime spot for watching the sunrise. The moment the sun peeks over the sea of clouds, painting the sky in soft oranges and pinks, is magical. Fun fact: The Alishan area is home to some of Taiwan’s oldest and tallest trees, many of which are over 1,000 years old. After soaking in the sunrise in Alishan, your adventure continues to Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest freshwater lake. This picturesque lake is named for its unique shape—the eastern part resembles a sun, while the western part looks like a crescent moon. Sun Moon Lake is perfect for biking along its scenic routes, boating across its calm waters, or visiting nearby temples like Wenwu Temple, which overlooks the lake. Interesting fact: Sun Moon Lake is sacred to the Thao, one of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes, and every year, a swimming carnival is held where thousands of participants swim across the lake. This outdoor journey, from the misty mornings of Alishan to the peaceful beauty of Sun Moon Lake, showcases some of Taiwan's most breathtaking natural wonders. #outdooradventures