The Alishan scenic area is a landmark destination in Taiwan, renowned for its natural beauty and stunning landscapes. Composed of 18 large mountains, the Alishan Mountains cover a vast area, with the ‘Alishan Forest Recreation Area’ being the epitome of this natural splendor. Here, visitors can experience the five wonders of Alishan: sunrise, sea of clouds, sunset glow, forest, and train. When people speak of “going to Alishan,” they are typically referring to this very area.
The sunrise at Alishan is a must-see attraction, especially on clear days. The Zhushan Observation Deck and Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck within the recreation area offer unobstructed views, allowing visitors to overlook the continuous mountain ranges such as the Yushan Mountains, the Central Mountain Range, and Tashan Mountain. The breathtaking interplay of light and shadow at sunrise makes the trip truly memorable. The sunrise times vary: around 5 AM on the summer solstice, 7 AM on the winter solstice, and 6 AM on the spring and autumn equinoxes. It is advisable to stay in the recreation area when planning to watch the sunrise. Remember to bring a flashlight, a thick coat, and wear comfortable walking shoes for this early morning adventure.
The sea of clouds is another one of Taiwan’s eight scenic spots, and in Alishan, it predominantly appears in the early morning or at dusk during clear autumn and winter days, with floating clouds creating a mesmerizing vista. The recommended places to enjoy the sea of clouds in the recreation area include the observation deck next to the Alpine Museum, Alishan Hotel, Alishan Railway Station, Zhaoping Park, Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck, and near the first parking lot.Ciyun Temple, Alishan Hotel, Alishan Railway Station, Zhaoping Park, Duigaoyue, Ogasawara Mountain, and the area near the first parking lot are all scenic spots for enjoying the sunset glow of Alishan. Due to the thin air and strong solar radiation in high mountain areas, the blue sky is more magnificent than on flat ground, and the sunset glow is also more gorgeous.
Alishan was originally one of the three major forest farms in Taiwan. As the altitude gradually increases, various types of plants from tropical to temperate zones can be seen. In spring, cherry blossoms are flying, and in autumn, red leaves are all over the mountains. There is also an amazing ancient red cypress forest. Walking through the forest along the more than 600-meter-long wooden plank road allows you to enjoy the long-lost natural forest bath.
The red small train shuttles among the cherry blossom forests, a picture that has almost become a symbol of Alishan. This small train, full of retro feeling, was used to transport timber in the early years and has now become a popular scenic spot among tourists. The railway is connected from Chiayi Railway Station to the recreation area. The Zhushan Line is the best choice for watching the sunrise, and the Shenmu Line can take you to the forest area with towering giant trees. If you want to visit the entire recreation area, taking these two lines is quite convenient.
In addition to the charming natural scenery, there are also many cultural landscapes in the recreation area, including the Alishan VIP Hotel, Alpine Museum, and Tree Spirit Tower.Alpine tea, as the number one specialty souvenir of Alishan, can be bought around Alishan Railway Station and Fencihu Old Street and given to relatives and friends.
Opening hours: Open all year round from 00:00 to 23:59.
Preferential policy supplementary note: Children under 2 years old are admitted free of charge.
Must-see tips:
1. In a natural environment, it is advisable to wear clothes and trousers, wide-brimmed hats, sports shoes or hiking shoes that are in harmony with the natural environment, and always be on guard against snake, bee and mosquito bites.
2. In order to maintain environmental cleanliness, please do not purchase beverages, food, etc. from mobile vendors.
3. There are separate lanes for people and vehicles as well as zebra crossings in the area for tourists to walk on. Please make good use of them.
4. This area is vast. For your safety, please follow the guidance signs in the area for sightseeing and do not cross the area boundary.
5. Do not engage in recreational activities under cliffs, precipices, or at places with unstable geology to avoid accidental incidents.
6. As most of the area is covered with flammable trees, please do not camp or make fires in the area to prevent forest fires.
