Alishan

Introducing Alishan

Alishan, a place name in Taiwan, is a famous tourist attraction in Taiwan. Located 75 kilometers east of Chiayi City, Taiwan, at an altitude of 2,216 meters, Alishan's coordinates are 23 degrees 31 minutes north latitude and 120 degrees 48 minutes east longitude. It lies to the east near Taiwan's highest peak, Yushan. The mountain's mild climate, refreshing even in midsummer, and lush forests make it an ideal summer resort in Taiwan.

Alishan, comprised of eighteen peaks, is a branch of the Yushan Mountain Range. The new Central Cross-Island Highway now connects Alishan with the Yushan Scenic Area. Sunrise, sea of ​​clouds, sunset, forests, and the mountain railway are collectively known as the Five Wonders of Alishan. The cultural heritage of the Tsou Aboriginal people adds further interest to Alishan.

Climate and best time to travel

From mid-March to mid-April every year, thousands of cherry trees in full bloom line the streets of Alishan to welcome visitors. You can take a train to watch the cherry blossom rain, and when the breeze blows, the petals dance like rain.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 day

Tickets

NT$200/person

Attraction opening hours

24-hour development all year round

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Most Popular FAQs for Alishan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Alishan is a mountainous region in Chiayi County, Taiwan, known for its ancient forests, cultural heritage of the Tsou indigenous people, and historic forestry industry. It is significant as a premier destination for natural beauty, sunrise views, and the Alishan Forest Railway.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in Chiayi County, central Taiwan.
• By train: Take the Taiwan Railways to Chiayi Station, then a bus to Alishan.
• By bus: Alishan Forest Bus from Chiayi or Fenqihu to the Alishan entrance.
• By car/taxi: Accessible via Provincial Highway 18.
• Walking: Explore the scenic area on foot once at Alishan.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Alishan National Scenic Area: 24/7 access to trails, visitor center 08:00–17:00.
• Best times: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather, early mornings for sunrise views.
• Avoid typhoon season (June–September) for safety.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Alishan National Scenic Area ticket: Approximately NT$300 for adults, NT$150 for children/students.
• Purchase tickets at the entrance or online via official Alishan website.
• Forest Railway ticket: Prices vary by route; can be bought at stations or online.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is recommended for the Alishan Forest Railway, especially for sunrise trains, ideally 1–2 weeks in advance. General park entry tickets do not require advance booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• 1–2 days to enjoy sunrise, trails, and train rides.
• Half a day is sufficient for shorter hikes and scenic viewpoints.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Zhushan Sunrise Observation Deck
• Giant Tree Plank Trail and ancient cypress trees
• Sisters Ponds and Shouzhen Temple
• Fenqihu Station and historic village
• Alishan Forest Railway and stations

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

• Guided tours available in Mandarin and English.
• Some information panels and audio guides available in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Zhushan Sunrise Observation Deck
• Giant Tree Plank Trail
• Sisters Ponds area
• Alishan Railway stations for vintage train shots
• Sea of Clouds viewpoints along the trails

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at Alishan Forest Railway station.
• Take the train or hike to Zhushan for sunrise.
• Walk the Giant Tree Plank Trail and Sisters Ponds.
• Visit Shouzhen Temple and nearby cultural sites.
• Optional visit to Fenqihu Station and village.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Sunrise tours are the main special experience; night visits are limited, but some accommodations offer guided stargazing or forest evening walks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Peak season: Spring cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
• Weekdays are less crowded; avoid weekends and public holidays.
• Early morning visits are ideal for sunrise without crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, visitor centers, food stalls, cafes, rest areas, and souvenir shops are available along trails and near stations.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Moderate walking is required; some trails are wheelchair accessible. Elderly and children can enjoy train rides and main viewpoints, but some areas are steep.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for small shops and trail snacks; major restaurants and visitor centers accept cards and mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Alishan House – mountain cuisine and tea
• Fenqihu old street – local snacks and bento boxes
• Small cafes along the trail offering tea and refreshments

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some restaurants; vegan and halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Alishan House – luxury hotel
• Alishan Gou Hotel – mid-range
• Fenqihu guesthouses and inns
• Mountain lodges and hostels along the main scenic area

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Fenqihu Historic Village
• Mei-feng Farm and tea plantations
• Tsou Indigenous culture sites
• Chiayi city for museums and night markets

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops near stations and trail entrances
• Typical items: Alishan tea, wooden crafts, local snacks, postcards, and cypress products

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Bus or taxi back to Chiayi for train or city connections
• Drive to nearby attractions like Fenqihu or Sun Moon Lake
• Hiking or walking between trails within Alishan for short excursions