Alishan National Scenic Area
Alishan National Scenic Area in Taiwan is a breathtaking mountainous region known for its stunning sunrise views, ancient forests, and iconic Alishan Forest Railway, offering visitors a mesmerizing experience in nature.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Alishan National Scenic Area in Taiwan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, the cherry blossoms or maple leaves are in full bloom, and the visibility is generally good for enjoying the scenic vistas.
How to Get There
To reach Alishan National Scenic Area in Taiwan, there are several transportation options available.
One popular method is to take a train to Chiayi Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Taiwan. From Chiayi, you can board the Alishan Forest Railway, a narrow-gauge train that winds its way up to Alishan.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Chiayi Bus Station or hire a taxi or private car for a more convenient and flexible journey.
Top 20 Attractions in Alishan National Scenic Area
Alishan Forest Railway: Embark on a scenic train ride through lush forests and picturesque landscapes, including breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset.
Zhushan Sunrise: Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise from Zhushan, one of the highest peaks in Alishan, offering panoramic vistas of rolling clouds and distant mountains.
Sisters Ponds (Jinmen and Shuiyang): Explore the serene beauty of the twin ponds, Jinmen and Shuiyang, surrounded by lush greenery and reflected mountain views.
Sacred Tree: Visit the Sacred Tree, a massive ancient tree estimated to be over 2,500 years old, and marvel at its majestic presence.
Alishan National Forest Recreation Area: Discover a network of hiking trails amidst towering cypress trees, vibrant flora, and tranquil streams, providing a rejuvenating experience in nature.
Alishan Sacred Tree Tea House: Enjoy a cup of high-quality tea while immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere of the tea house, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Alishan.
Shouzhen Temple: Pay a visit to this beautiful temple with a rich history, dedicated to the worship of Mazu, the goddess of the sea.
Alishan Museum: Learn about the local culture, history, and ecology of the Alishan region through informative exhibits and displays at the Alishan Museum.
Fenchihu Old Street: Take a stroll through this charming old street, lined with traditional wooden houses and offering a wide array of local snacks, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
Ciyun Temple: Explore this peaceful temple surrounded by lush greenery, featuring intricate architectural details and a tranquil ambiance that encourages relaxation and reflection.
Alishan Sacred Tree Recreation Area: Discover an enchanting forest area filled with ancient trees, moss-covered trails, and serene ponds, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Alishan Zihyun Temple: Visit this serene Buddhist temple, known for its beautiful architecture, intricate wood carvings, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Alishan Cherry Blossom: During the cherry blossom season (usually in late winter or early spring), Alishan transforms into a magical wonderland with cherry trees in full bloom, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Alishan Shouzhen Temple Forest Trail: Embark on a scenic hiking trail that takes you through dense forests, bamboo groves, and serene temples, providing a tranquil escape into nature.
Chushan Old Street: Explore this lively street filled with shops, eateries, and tea houses, where you can indulge in local delicacies, purchase souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
Alishan National Scenic Area Railway Garage Park: Discover a collection of vintage trains and railway memorabilia, offering a glimpse into the history and significance of the Alishan Forest Railway.
Fenqi Lake: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride or a scenic walk around this picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene setting to relax and unwind.
Shermuh Forest Recreation Area: Venture into this lesser-known part of Alishan, featuring peaceful hiking trails, waterfalls, and serene picnic spots, perfect for a quiet getaway.
Tea Plantations: Take a tour of the tea plantations in the region, where you can learn about the tea-making process, sample different varieties of tea, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes of terraced hillsides.
Alishan Skywalk: Experience an adrenaline rush by walking on a glass-bottomed skywalk that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests, providing a unique perspective on the Alishan landscape.
Top 10 Activities to do in Alishan National Scenic Area
Here are some of the top activities you can enjoy in Alishan:
Sunrise and Sunset Viewing: Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise from a vantage point like Zhushan, and don't miss the opportunity to capture the vibrant colors of the sunset over the mountains.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the numerous hiking trails and nature walks in Alishan, immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty, serene forests, and picturesque landscapes.
Alishan Forest Railway Ride: Take a nostalgic journey on the Alishan Forest Railway, enjoying the scenic views as the train winds through tunnels, over bridges, and passes by stunning valleys.
Tea Tasting and Tea Ceremony: Engage in a traditional tea tasting experience where you can sample various types of local tea and learn about the art of tea preparation in a tranquil tea house setting.
Photography and Scenic Spots: Capture the mesmerizing beauty of Alishan with your camera by visiting iconic viewpoints and scenic spots like Sisters Ponds, Sacred Tree, and the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area.
Cherry Blossom Viewing (seasonal): During the cherry blossom season, delight in the captivating beauty of the blooming cherry trees, creating a magical atmosphere that's perfect for photography and leisurely strolls.
Local Cuisine and Food Exploration: Indulge in the local cuisine of Alishan, savoring popular dishes like mountain wild vegetables, bamboo rice, and delicate teas, as well as exploring the food stalls and eateries in the area.
Cultural Experiences: Visit temples such as Shouzhen Temple and Zihyun Temple to learn about the local religious traditions and witness traditional rituals or performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Alishan.
Forest Bathing and Relaxation: Take a leisurely walk through the tranquil forests, breathing in the fresh air and embracing the therapeutic benefits of forest bathing, or find a peaceful spot to sit, meditate, and rejuvenate your mind and body.
Exploring Local Villages: Venture into nearby villages like Fenqihu, where you can stroll through charming streets, taste local snacks, and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of rural Taiwan.
Best Shopping
While Alishan is more renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, there are still some shopping opportunities available in the area. Here are a few options for shopping in and around Alishan:
Alishan Gift Shops: Within the Alishan National Scenic Area, you'll find several gift shops offering a variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. These shops often sell items like tea leaves, tea sets, wood carvings, postcards, and traditional snacks.
Fenqihu Old Street: Located near Alishan, Fenqihu Old Street is a popular stop known for its quaint shops and food stalls. Here, you can find local snacks, dried fruits, tea products, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Don't miss trying the renowned Fenqihu bamboo rice.
Chiayi City: If you're looking for a more extensive shopping experience, you can visit Chiayi City, which is the gateway to Alishan. In the city, you'll find department stores, shopping malls, and markets where you can shop for clothing, electronics, cosmetics, local products, and more.
Alishan Forest Recreation Area: The Alishan Forest Recreation Area also has a small shopping area where you can browse and purchase local products like tea, honey, snacks, and handicrafts. It's a convenient place to pick up some unique souvenirs while exploring the park.
Tea Plantations: Alishan is famous for its tea production, so you might consider visiting tea plantations in the area. Some plantations offer tea-related products for sale, including high-quality tea leaves, tea sets, tea-infused products, and tea-based skincare items.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Alishan is primarily known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, so the entertainment and nightlife scene is relatively limited compared to larger cities. However, there are still some options for evening entertainment and relaxation in the area. Here are a few suggestions:
Tea Houses: Alishan is famous for its tea production, and visiting a traditional tea house can be a delightful evening activity. Enjoy a cup of locally grown tea while immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance and learning about the art of tea preparation.
Stargazing: Due to its elevated location and limited light pollution, Alishan offers excellent conditions for stargazing. On a clear night, you can marvel at the twinkling stars and constellations, making for a serene and awe-inspiring experience.
Night Walks: Alishan's forests take on a different atmosphere at night. Taking a peaceful walk along the forest trails under the moonlight can be a serene and tranquil experience, immersing yourself in the sounds and scents of nature.
Local Performances: Occasionally, there may be cultural performances or traditional music events organized within the Alishan National Scenic Area. These performances offer insights into local culture and traditions, providing a chance to enjoy traditional music and dance.
Relaxation and Reflection: Alishan's serene environment makes it an ideal place to unwind and reflect. Find a peaceful spot to sit, meditate, or practice yoga, embracing the tranquility of the surroundings.
Local Cuisine
The local cuisine of Alishan offers a unique blend of flavors, influenced by the mountainous region and the abundant natural resources. Here are some highlights of the local cuisine you can savor while visiting Alishan:
Mountain Wild Vegetables: Alishan is known for its fresh and flavorful mountain wild vegetables, which are often stir-fried or incorporated into various dishes. These vegetables are harvested from the surrounding forests and offer a unique taste of the region.
Bamboo Rice: A popular specialty in Alishan is bamboo rice, where rice is cooked inside fresh bamboo tubes. This cooking method infuses the rice with a subtle bamboo fragrance, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish.
Tea-Infused Cuisine: Given Alishan's reputation as a tea-producing region, it's no surprise that tea is often incorporated into local dishes. From tea-steamed chicken to tea-smoked meats, tea leaves are used to infuse dishes with a distinct and delicate flavor.
Indigenous Cuisine: Alishan is home to indigenous communities, and you can find traditional indigenous dishes in some local restaurants. These dishes often feature ingredients like millet, taro, mountain herbs, and wild game, offering a taste of the indigenous culture and culinary traditions.
Herbal Soups and Stews: Alishan's natural surroundings provide an abundance of medicinal herbs and plants, which are often used in soups and stews known for their nourishing and health-boosting properties. These soups are made with a variety of ingredients, such as Chinese herbs, mountain mushrooms, and locally sourced meats.
Local Snacks: As you explore Alishan, you'll come across various street food stalls and small shops selling local snacks. Some popular snacks include bamboo shoots, taro balls, sweet potato balls, tea-flavored pastries, and dried fruits.
Alishan Tea: A visit to Alishan wouldn't be complete without trying the local teas. Alishan is renowned for its high-quality tea, particularly oolong tea. You can enjoy tea tasting experiences, sample different tea varieties, and learn about the tea-making process.
Accommodations
While Alishan itself is a national scenic area with limited accommodation options, there are nearby areas that serve as convenient bases for exploring Alishan and its surrounding attractions. Here are a few recommended areas to consider:
Chiayi City: As the gateway to Alishan, Chiayi City offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. It provides easy access to Alishan through various transportation modes and offers additional amenities such as restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions.
Fenqihu: Fenqihu is a small town located between Chiayi City and Alishan. It is known for its charming old street, tea plantations, and easy access to the Alishan Forest Railway. Staying in Fenqihu allows you to experience the local culture and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the area.
Rueili: Rueili is another town located near Alishan, offering a serene environment surrounded by tea plantations and scenic views. It is an ideal choice for those seeking tranquility and proximity to nature.
Alishan Township: If you prefer to stay within the Alishan National Scenic Area itself, there are a few accommodation options available, including hotels and guesthouses. Staying here allows you to be close to the attractions and experience the beauty of Alishan at different times of the day.
Itinerary
Title: The Ultimate 2-Day Adventure: Embrace the Magic of Alishan National Scenic Area
Day 1 - Sunrise Serenade and Enchanting Trails
Morning
4:00 AM: Alishan Forest Railway Sunrise Tour. Begin your first day by witnessing the magical sunrise atop Mt. Zhu. Alishan is famous for its sunrise, and getting there by the scenic Alishan Forest Railway makes it all the more special. The early wake-up will be worth it!
7:30 AM: Breakfast at Alishan. After the sunrise, head back to the town for a well-deserved breakfast. Sample some local Taiwanese breakfast foods, such as Dan Bing (Taiwanese pancake) and soy milk.
9:00 AM: Alishan Forest Railway Museum. Explore the Alishan Forest Railway Museum, where you can learn about the history of the 100-year old railway and its integral role in the local logging industry.
Afternoon
12:30 PM: Lunch at Fenqihu Old Street. Get a taste of local cuisine and culture on this charming old street. Be sure to try the famous Fenqihu bento and the local specialty, bamboo rice.
2:00 PM: Hiking through Ancient Forest. Embark on a relaxing hike on the Giant Trees Plank Road, where you'll walk amongst towering trees, some of which are over 2000 years old.
Evening
6:00 PM: Dinner. Enjoy dinner back at the local township, with the option of trying out Alishan mountain tea along with local dishes.
8:00 PM: Alishan Night Tour. After dinner, join a night tour to experience the serene forest under the stars. Listen to the tranquil night sounds of Alishan and keep your eyes peeled for nocturnal wildlife.
Day 2 - Magnificent Blossoms and Mesmerizing Views
Morning
6:00 AM: Alishan Sisters Ponds. Start your day by visiting the Sisters Ponds, two ponds with a touching legend. The early morning mist often creates a dreamy landscape.
8:00 AM: Breakfast. Start your morning right with a hearty local breakfast.
9:00 AM: Hiking the Three-Generation Trees Trail. Discover the beauty of nature with this peaceful and easy trail, where you'll see three trees growing from the same root - an unusual sight!
Afternoon
12:00 PM: Lunch at Alishan. Sample more local delights in the area. Don't forget to try the Aiyu jelly, a local favorite!
1:30 PM: Visit to the Shouzhen Temple. Absorb the tranquillity and history of the largest temple in Alishan. Enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and forests from the temple grounds.
3:00 PM: Zhushan Sunset Viewing. Take the Alishan Forest Railway up to Zhushan to catch a stunning sunset, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Evening
6:00 PM: Dinner and Night Market Exploration. Enjoy a local dinner and then explore the vibrant night markets, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample a variety of Taiwanese street food.
