[2025 Chiayi County Attraction] Travel Guide for Alishan National Scenic Area (Updated Jan)

Our time in Alishan was truly unforgettable, and we were incredibly lucky to experience both the sunrise and sunset over the mountains! While many travellers only stay a single night, often because Alishan is seen as a brief stop for hiking and enjoying the recreational forest, we decided to linger a little longer. Staying true to our goal of slow travel, we spent two nights here to fully soak in the breathtaking landscapes and enjoy the serenity of the mountains. We travelled to Alishan by shuttle bus from Fenqihu, a journey of about 45 minutes that offers stunning views as you ascend. Conveniently, you can use a regular train card for the bus, making it easy to travel up to the mountain. The air felt noticeably fresher as we climbed, and the cooler weather brought immediate relaxation. Arriving in the morning, we dropped our bags at the hotel before heading to the famous Alishan Forest Trail. The forest trail is filled with fascinating sights, from the awe-inspiring first- and second-generation trees, some of which are over a thousand years old, to remnants of Japanese culture that reflect Alishan’s past under Japanese rule in the early 20th century. Walking along the trail took us about two and a half hours, and afterwards, we hopped on a scenic train ride back to the main station, adding a bit of charm and nostalgia to our journey. As evening approached, we debated whether to attempt the iconic sunrise viewing the next day, which requires a pre-dawn wake-up call around 4 a.m. We were hesitant but decided it was too unique an experience to pass up. It’s worth noting that sunrise train tickets sell out quickly, so purchasing them the day before is highly recommended. Although we didn’t catch a particularly bright sunrise, watching the world wake up from such an elevated viewpoint was still magical. The experience was made even more memorable thanks to our train driver, who shared jokes and anecdotes to lift everyone’s spirits in the early morning. It was clear he truly loved his job, which added a delightful touch to our journey. Spending two nights allowed us to appreciate the slower rhythm of Alishan, and we left with a deep sense of peace and gratitude for its natural beauty and rich history.

#forest Alishan is a must-visit attraction in Taiwan that is worth relaxing in. There is not only a guided tour of the park train, but also Phytoncide in the Shenmu District. Every minute is filled with great energy and healing Sunrise, sea of ​​clouds, railway, forest, sunset, and visual feast are all different kinds of wonders in Alishan. The altitude of the mountain is less than 2,000, giving tourists a different experience. Even if you come and go in a hurry, there are still different shining points The main line and branch lines of the "Forestry Railway" are convenient ways to go to Alishan, and they are also the best choice to go to scenic spots such as Fenqi Lake. It is recommended that before going to Alishan, you can first check the opening of the scenic spot management office's jurisdiction, which will provide better tourism quality. Coming once is definitely not enough. The embrace of nature and the creation of visual art are both endlessly memorable. Each time is a different harvest~ I’m so lucky to be able to participate in the Alishan tour organized by my family because the time, place and people are right. Buy a ticket early in the morning to enter the 24-hour national park. Wear thin pants, sweat-wicking clothing, and trail running shoes. Along the way, we passed the magnificent Alishan Station, the gorgeous Alishan Hotel, The Alishan Cherry Blossom King has no flowers anymore, Shouzhengong, who was praying for his father, finally ran to the sacred tree ruins. I deeply appreciate the vivid writing of the introduction to the sacred tree ruins. Family travel has a different experience from family travel, company travel, and friend travel. It's not like getting along day and night like family, but it has an extra level of blood relationship than friends. We've known each other since we were young, and it's been a joy and happiness to be able to travel together.

#train #TripMoments #100 kinds of travel #train travel #forest train #forest railway #alishan forest railway garage One of the most famous scenic spots in Chiayi, Alishan, is not only an excellent place to enjoy the sunrise, but also a good place for hiking and mountain climbing. It is also a very popular place for tourists to stay for a night. There are also new hotels and B&Bs opened on the mountain in recent years. . Public transportation methods to go up the mountain include taking passenger trains or small trains. Remember to go to Beimen Station for the small train. Because the train doors are very popular, they will start to buy them in the first 15 days. Friends who want to order, please pay attention to the time. If you don’t want to stay at the hotel, you can simply arrange a one-day trip to Fenchihu. It’s a short trip that lasts almost a day. Go to Fenchihu to see the square bamboos, stroll around the old streets, and eat a Fenchihu bento~ # alishan #alishanstation #alishanrail #fenchihu #fenchihunostalgic bento #fenchihu老老街 #Chiayi #Chiayitourism

#winhkflight Waking up before dawn to witness the sunrise at Alishan was an unforgettable experience. As the first light began to creep over the horizon, the anticipation grew. When the sun finally emerged, it painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, illuminating the landscape below. The sea of clouds added an ethereal touch, making me feel like I was witnessing something truly magical. Despite the early hour and the crowd, the beauty of the moment made it all worthwhile. It's a memory I'll cherish forever. Hope to win flight to Hong Kong to go Green Egg Island snorkelling and canoeing 🛶

As the most famous sunrise spot in Taiwan, Alishan is well-deserved. I have lived in Fenchihu before, but in life you always have to have the spirit of chasing dreams, so I still plan to conquer Alishan Sunchu. But after seeing all the accommodations in Alishan, especially on holidays, they are very expensive, so I suddenly thought, if I sleep in the car, I can save three to five thousand, and use it to have a big meal, wouldn't it be delicious? The good thing about Alishan is that the weather is cool. The place to stay is in the parking lot in front of the train station. Camping is not allowed here, you can only sleep in the car, but the mountain is high enough, so you can sleep well without turning on the air conditioner and opening the windows. Comfortable. Mosquitoes may appear, so bringing your own car screens can solve this problem. Moreover, there are clean public toilets and 7-11 here, so there is no problem at all in car rentals. The beginning of the day in Alishan does not have a certain time every day. You can go to the station to confirm the time for the next day and buy the ticket first. This way, the hostel can set an alarm clock and catch up very early. Because the parking lot is only ten minutes away from the station, you can eat as much as you want before heading up the mountain that day. There are also some small shops in the local area, and there is also a food court next to the parking lot. There are not many shops open during non-holidays, but there are delicious salty cakes. Chicken! With salty crispy chicken and 7-11 beer, watching TV dramas in the car is also a great experience! Alishan is also a paradise for cats, especially in carstays. You will find many neighbors in the middle of the night, and cats and cats will visit the public restrooms from time to time, which is an interesting experience. If you stay overnight in Alishan, you can not only watch the sunrise, but also admire the moon. There are no high-rise buildings here, and it is very suitable to enjoy the moon without any shelter. Get up in the morning, go straight to the station, enjoy the refreshing view of the sunrise, and then walk all the way down to appreciate the miraculous craftsmanship of nature. Of course, you can also choose to take the shuttle bus, because the parking lot is located next to the shuttle bus, so lazy people can go there directly. Back to the car! Special recommendations: the evening salty crispy chicken, Alishan pancakes, Alishan mustard, and Alishan stamps sold at the Alishan Post Office. Address: No. 59, Alishan Township, Chiayi County Tickets: 200 for adults (cheaper online) Opening hours: 24 hours

There really aren’t many delicious restaurants on Mount Ali. I tried a few of them while looking for food. This one is highly recommended to everyone. We ordered a set menu for 5-6 people, which costs 1,900 and provides a large pot and 8 dishes. The dining environment is clean and comfortable, and they also provide all-you-can-eat longan and millet porridge, which is soft and glutinous and delicious. You can add rice by yourself, and the dishes are diverse and the portions are sufficient. Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, No. 30 East, Zhongzheng Village, Alishan Township, Chiayi County 605 #hotpot #alishan national scenic area #alishan food

It was my first time in Alishan and I was lucky enough to see the sunrise. It was even rarer that when I got up at three in the morning that day, it was still covered in heavy fog. But when it was almost half an hour before sunrise, the sky suddenly became clear and clear, and I could see a more beautiful scenery. The beautiful sunrise scene, along with the thousand-year-old trees, is really dazzling. I praise the Creator for creating this magical and complex nature for mankind. We must cherish and protect this hard-won natural ecological environment.

Chilly mountain air! Gorgeous scenery.. Postcard picture worthy if every single angle. Fresh mountain air & amazing hospitality by the Taiwanese! Good for doing casual stroll & hikes! Very relaxing & laid back place in Taiwan.

Alishan, Taiwan. The National park in the middle of Taiwan. It's far away from Sun Moon Lake around 4 hrs by taken bus. The highlight is to wake up early in the morning and take a train up to the peak for seeing the sunrise. 😊 #alishan #taiwan #wintergetaway #wintergetaway

#taiwan #sakura at #zhuqi Tea Township at the foot of #alishan. #inspiration #happynewyear

Zhaoping cheery blossom Park in #alishan #taiwan #inspiration #mountains #happynewyear

#alisan mountain #giantcypress tree hiking trail where the millennia-old trees like cypress, yellow cedar and spruce dominate the sacred forests. The Xanglin Sacred Cypress Tree 2300 years old is the most famous tree. #unforgetabletrip #mountains #happynewyear #happynewyear

On our trip to #alisan, we passby beautiful Taiwan #zhuqi Tea Township at the foot of Alishan with hills gradually steeping to high mountains and lofty peaks, with the highest mountain—Dadong Mountain, measuring an altitude of some 2000 meters. #inspiration #mountains #happynewyear

The forest of Alishan is known as one of the five mountains of Alishan. Alishan has a very rich forest resources, a natural oxygen bar, walking on the towering avenues of ancient trees, in addition to the absorption of negative ions, you can also listen to the beautiful sound of birds. Even the millennial old trees that had been cut down in the area, and the half-rooted dead tree roots left by them, are also worthy of play. After entering the deep forest, it was attracted by the magical trees in the virgin forest. It seems to have entered a fairy tale world. The shape is strange and has to feel the magic of nature. It has stood still for thousands of years. The mossy green dragonfly, full of water, is everywhere like a spellon the tree, on the vine, on the ground, and some even hang down with the branches. Deforestation of the natural forest resources of Alishan during the Japanese rule. All the way, you can see the huge stumps left after the felling of many giant trees. The stumps are strangely shaped and have been given aliases for various images.

Visit the reasonable route of the Alishan Forest Scenic Area! Generally visit the Alishan Forest Scenic Area during the day. The scenic spots are mainly distributed in the vicinity of the three branch lines, including Meiyuan, Sister Pool, Yanzheng Palace, and Sandaimu. You can visit these attractions smoothly by taking three branch lines. , interspersed with some reasonable walks, you can feel the Alishan virgin forest very well. Personally think that the reasonable route is: Alishan Station-Zhaoping Station-Forest Area-Sisters------------------------------------------------------------------------ Alishan Station arrives at the destination by the small train on the Marsh Line [7 minutes], then travels along the trail of the sister pool to Shenmu [45 minutes]. The altitude of the Maru is high and the altitude of the Shenmu is low. This road is not down the mountain. Will be tired. After receiving the town palace, you can reach the Shenmu station, you can watch the giant wood group and the wonders of the Sanyomu all the way [45 minutes], and finally return to the Shenmu station by small train [7 minutes], this section is climbing There is no need to walk, and the whole area is surrounded by a triangular route. This circle just hits the sights around the Zhaoping Line and the Shenmu Line, and it is not too tired to go from top to bottom. You can experience the wild fun of taking a small train and breathe fresh in the natural oxygen bar. Air is a perfect travel route. As for the Zhushan line, it is to see the sunrise, the sea of clouds and the sunset. We are the daytime excursions, and there is no such thing as the three odds, so only the other two routes are interspersed.

Alishan is located in the eastern part of Chiayi County, Taiwan, 75 kilometers east of Chiayi City. It is a famous scenic spot in China and abroad. It is especially famous for its Alishan Wuqi sunrise, cloud sea, sunset glow, forest and mountain railway. The Alishan terrain is high and the unique mountain climate makes it an average summer temperature of only 14.3 degrees Celsius, so it is also a summer resort. In the early spring of each year, cherry blossoms, S. cerana, heather, and foxglove are famous for their beauty. They turn Alishan into a sea of people. In addition, visitors can also experience the local customs of the local aborigines, the Tsou, and learn how people living here 200 years ago live in harmony with nature. The Alishan Forest Recreation Area is surrounded by peaks, mountains and mountains, and giant trees. It is very majestic. Shenmu, cherry blossoms, sea of clouds and sunrise are the four great sights of Alishan. The beauty of Alishan is natural and ecological. It is not only the most famous attraction in Taiwan, but also the best tourist destination in the eyes of tourists at home and abroad. The Alishan Railway has more than 70 years of history. It is one of the three remaining high-altitude railways in the world. It passes through the hot, warm, warm and cold regions and has different scenery. It is like a natural museum by train.

Alishan National Scenic Area is like a fairyland on earth, with its lush forests, morning cloud waterfalls, and rising mist creating a poetic picture. Climbing the mountain at dawn to watch the sunrise, the golden glow breaks through the sky, like a scene from a dream. Along the way, ancient trees tower in the forest, with thousand-year-old red cypress and Taiwan fir standing proudly, exuding a majestic natural aura. The Alishan small train slowly weaves through, sometimes crossing valleys, sometimes passing through bamboo forests, bringing a nostalgic romantic feeling. During the cherry blossom season, the mountains are adorned with pink, contrasting with the verdant scenery, making it feel like a fairy tale world. Here, you can slow your steps, calm your mind, listen to the wind and birds, and feel as if you can truly hear the breath of nature, creating unforgettable memories for travelers.

Alishan, located in Chiayi County, Taiwan, is a renowned tourist destination famous for its magnificent natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The Alishan National Scenic Area boasts enchanting mountain ranges, pristine forests, and an exquisite railway. Its main attractions include the sunrise, sea of clouds, sunset, forest railway, and the sacred trees, known as the 'Five Wonders.' First Journey: Arrival and Exploration Upon arriving in Chiayi, we took the famous Alishan Forest Railway up the mountain. Since its completion in 1912, this railway has been one of the symbols of Alishan. Its winding route promises diverse ecological scenery along the way. As the train slowly ascends the mountain, we gradually reach higher altitudes, experiencing the fresh air and cool climate that starkly contrast with the city. The Blend of Culture and Nature: Rich Ecosystem Alishan is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also a treasure trove for cultural explorers. The Tsou culture here is fascinating. The traditional dances and music of the Alishan Tsou people showcase their unique customs and long history. We were fortunate to participate in a traditional Tsou welcome dance performance, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of this land. Strolling Among the Sacred Trees The forest trails of Alishan are a must-experience, especially the famous Sacred Tree Trail. These thousand-year-old red cypress and Taiwan cypress trees are awe-inspiring. Walking along the trail, listening to the crisp bird songs, one can leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a moment of tranquility and close contact with nature. Watching the Sunrise and Sea of Clouds Next, we set off early in the morning to the Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform, anticipating an unforgettable sunrise. Despite the chilly early morning temperature, the excitement drove us to climb to the top. As the sky gradually brightened, the sun slowly rose from the east, casting golden rays over the sea of clouds, creating a dreamlike scene. At that moment, all the hardships turned into awe and admiration. Savoring Alishan Cuisine After a day of exploration in the mountains, a sumptuous Alishan-style meal is a must. The local cuisine is primarily fresh and natural, featuring dishes like wasabi tofu, bamboo shoots, and high mountain tea. Especially the high mountain tea of Alishan, with its unique flavor and aroma, perfectly concluded this journey. Reflections and Thoughts This trip to Alishan not only deepened my appreciation for the grandeur of nature and the richness of culture but also reminded me to maintain curiosity about life and reverence for the world. Each unique experience left a profound mark on my heart, making this not just a physical journey but a spiritual cleansing. The majesty and gentleness, the awe and tranquility of Alishan, make every corner unforgettable. For travelers seeking to experience the beauty of nature and cultural depth, Alishan is undoubtedly an unmissable destination.

A peaceful day on Alishan, a beautiful mountain with heaps of old trees! 😍 We took a bus from Chiayi station to Alishan. You’d better go to stop station at least 30 mins before departure time because there will be a long queue of people while there are limited seats on the bus. The forest is amazing, super super peaceful. The air is fresh & we all felt so relaxing. The hiking is ok, not too much.

Alishan, Taiwan: A Must-See for Nature Lovers! Alishan is a hidden gem in Taiwan, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. Here's why it should be on your travel list: * Misty Forests: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of towering cypress trees and swirling mist. * Iconic Sunrises: Witness the magical spectacle of a sunrise over a sea of clouds. * Cherry Blossoms: Explore the vibrant blooms during cherry blossom season. * Alishan Forest Railway: Take a scenic journey on the famous narrow-gauge railway. * Cultural Encounters: Learn about the indigenous Tsou people and their rich traditions. * Hiking Trails: Discover hidden gems and panoramic views on a variety of hiking trails. Don't miss the chance to experience the tranquility of Alishan's forests, the grandeur of its mountains, and the warmth of its people.

Taiwan captivates with its unique blend of culinary traditions, vibrant landscapes, and warm hospitality. The island's food culture is a beautiful fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous flavors. From bustling night markets offering street foods like stinky tofu, oyster omelettes, and bubble tea, to fine dining experiences highlighting local ingredients, Taiwan is a paradise for food lovers. Taiwan's landscapes, from the scenic Taroko Gorge to lush tea plantations in Alishan, add to its charm. Beyond its cuisine and scenery, Taiwanese people are known for their friendliness and openness, making visitors feel at home. This cultural richness, combined with diverse flavors and scenic beauty, makes Taiwan a destination full of surprises and unforgettable experiences. #travel#couplestrip#beachlife#naturalwonders#seascapes#china#localfood

We hired a driver up to Ahlishan. The weather up the mountain is just nice, perfect for a short hike, that is quite manageable. Greenery and misty forest. There are few photo spots for taking couple pictures. We took a train down to the main Ahlishan after hiking to one of the train stops. From the train, you can admire the scenery from the window. A chill and relaxing trip! #coupletravel #taiwan

Beauty of nature

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

Address: No. 59, Zhongzheng Village, Alishan Township, Chiayi County Business Hours: 24 hours Visitor Service Center: 08:00 - 17:00 Ticket: $300 Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is located in Chiayi County. The park boasts five unique sceneries: the forest railway, sacred trees, sea of clouds, sunrise, and sunset. It is one of the most famous and popular forest recreation areas in Taiwan, shining like a dazzling gem in the Alishan mountain range. The Alishan mountain range is one of Taiwan's five major mountain ranges. Alishan is not a single mountain but refers to the entire area. Historically, it was rich in cypress resources, and from 1912 to 1960, it was Taiwan's largest logging site. After extensive logging, the original cypress forest was almost entirely cut down. Today, there are nearly forty giant red cypress trees along the first and second phase giant tree boardwalks, reminding visitors of the grandeur and sacredness of the past sacred tree forest. In addition to the sacred trees, Alishan has many other attractions: the forest railway, the ethereal Sisters Ponds, the magnificent sea of clouds, the beautiful Zhushan sunrise, Shouzhen Temple, the century-old Ciyun Temple, forestry historical sites, and various cherry blossoms and rhododendrons blooming in spring. The Alishan Forest Recreation Area is an international-level tourist attraction representing Taiwan's foggy forest belt, welcoming travelers from around the world to explore the rich and beautiful landscapes of Taiwan's mountains and forests. **Booking hotels on Trip.com not only earns Trip coins but also allows you to use Trip coins.**

#travellerswonderland Alishan is a beautiful place to go for a walk. October temperatures are 15 degrees when we go up. Remember to bring extra jacket if u scared cold. We took lion express bus up to mountain. Highly recommended. Food is nice and delicious. Not recommend for small children. May be a little bit tired for them. Remember to pace your walk if you are not use to high altitude. The altitude is almost 2300.

get the fresh air ❤️❤️#freshair #awesomepic #alishanchiayi

#flowerblossom Summer with blossoms of colourful flowers around souther side of Taiwan. The colourful blossoms beats the summer heat.

#taiwan #alishan #chiayi