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Traveling to Alishan is a magical journey where you will discover majestic landscapes, a rich variety of flora and fauna, and fresh, clean air.
Traveling isn't just about exploring a country’s culture and history; it's about experiencing unforgettable moments surrounded by nature’s grandeur. In the journey to discover the world, Alishan National Park in Taiwan stands out as a must-visit destination. This place isn’t just a natural park—it’s deeply intertwined with Taiwan’s long-standing traditions. Join Mytour Vietnam as we embark on a journey through endless hills, witness stunning vistas, and savor the unique flavors of Alishan.
Where is Alishan?
Tucked away in Chiayi County, Alishan is not only a tourist spot but also a natural treasure boasting breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Spanning 415 square kilometers, Alishan Mountain stretches out like a perfect natural painting. This mountain range features towering peaks, with Datashan standing out at 2660 meters above sea level. From the summit, you can experience the vastness of Taiwan’s mountain forests.
Alishan is renowned not just for its diverse landscapes but also as a paradise for unique plant and animal species. Its pristine forests are home to many rare species, creating a rich ecosystem. Stepping into the Alishan forest feels like entering a different world, where nature and humanity blend together to form a harmonious picture.
What is the Best Season to Visit Alishan, Taiwan?
Summer and autumn are the most ideal seasons for traveling to Alishan National Forest. During the summer, the weather becomes more pleasant and cool, offering you the chance to enjoy fresh mountain air atop Alishan. The months of March and April are particularly great when you can witness the cherry blossoms starting to bloom, adding a beautiful touch to the natural scenery here.
Autumn is the time when the maple leaves turn a vibrant red, making it a perfect moment for relaxation and enjoying peaceful moments. Visiting Alishan isn’t just about exploring nature; it's also an opportunity to experience tranquility, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
How to Get to Alishan from Taipei
To reach Alishan from Taipei, you can use convenient public transport options such as trains and buses.
First, if you opt for the train, purchase a ticket and board at Taipei Main Train Station to travel to Chiayi. In Chiayi, you’ll transfer to a bus that will take you to Alishan. The good news is that buses are available right outside the regular train station and the HSR station. Do note that these two stations are quite far apart and differ from each other.
If you prefer to take a direct bus from Taipei to Alishan, purchase your ticket at Taipei Main Train Station. Typically, buses offer a night service, departing around 10 PM and arriving in Alishan at about 3-4 AM. Get your round-trip bus tickets for Taiwan Good Travel's Alishan route on Mytour.
Famous Alishan Tourist Spots
1. The Giant Cedar Tree Grove in Alishan
Alishan is renowned for its mystical and dreamy mountainous landscapes, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers seeking peace. Here, you can explore the Giant Tree Trail, a path that winds through towering cedar trees, offering a majestic and poetic setting.
One of the highlights of Alishan is the 'Three-Generation Tree,' a symbol of resilience and the indigenous people's dedication to nature conservation. In addition, you can enjoy breathtaking sunrises from the mountain top, offering an unforgettable experience.
2. Shenmu Area, Alishan
Don't miss the exciting travel destination with the grandeur of the ancient giant trees in the Shenmu area. This region is famous for its wooden trail, nestled among towering cypress trees with massive trunks so wide that a single person cannot wrap their arms around them. Each tree has lived for centuries, ranging from 600 to 2300 years. The area also features a small temple and an ancient shrine dedicated to the forest god, showcasing the deep connection between humans and nature.
Beyond sightseeing, you can also camp in designated areas to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings and experience the tranquility of nature. Shenmu is also a perfect spot to watch the sunrise or sunset, offering breathtaking views of the misty sea of clouds during both the sunrise and sunset.
3. Alishan Forest Railway
If you're someone who loves nature, riding the Alishan Forest Railway is an experience you shouldn't miss. This historic steam train travels through vast forests and lush tea hills, giving you a chance to witness magnificent and serene natural landscapes.
According to Mytour's recommendations, it's best to take the Zhushan route for a chance to witness the sunrise atop Mount Jade. Additionally, other routes like Shenmu and Zhaoping also pass through Alishan's scenic spots, providing a perfect opportunity to enjoy picturesque views along the train tracks.
4. Yuyupas Tea Hills
Exploring the Yuyupas Tea Hills offers a fantastic opportunity to delve into the culture and history of the Tsou people, an indigenous tribe with a thousand-year history in Alishan. Here, you can join guided tours, sample local tea and coffee, and enjoy Alishan's unique cuisine.
Yuyupas promises to be an ideal destination where you can combine the breathtaking natural beauty of Alishan with a deep dive into its rich indigenous culture. Take advantage of the private car tour service with a driver available through Mytour, covering both Chiayi (Gia Nghĩa) and Alishan, as well as the Fenchi Lake area.
5. Alishan Museum
A must-visit spot for culture and history enthusiasts, the Alishan Museum is located within the Alishan National Scenic Area. Established in 1935 and renovated in 2007, the museum preserves and showcases the history of the timber industry in Alishan, along with the indigenous cultures of the region.
The Alishan Museum is also a great family-friendly destination, offering a serene natural environment and stunning mountain views, ensuring memorable experiences for anyone traveling through Taiwan.
6. Sister Pond
Comprising two natural ponds with a stunning turquoise hue, Sister Pond offers a tranquil setting. The Elder Sister Pond is rectangular, covering about 530 square meters, while the Younger Sister Pond spans approximately 120 square meters.
This destination provides a truly peaceful and mystical experience, transporting visitors into a fairy-tale world nestled within nature.
7. Fenqihu Old Village
Located at an elevation of 1,400 meters above sea level, Fenqihu Old Village is a perfect stop on your Alishan adventure. Surrounded by majestic mountains, the village feels like a rustic, peaceful countryside painting. It’s renowned for its centuries-old train station, a source of local pride.
Visiting Fenqihu allows you to not only enjoy the natural beauty but also wander through narrow alleyways, admire the charming old houses, and interact with the friendly local residents. The village is also famous for its local dishes, making it an ideal place to savor traditional Taiwanese cuisine.
Food and Shopping Guide for Alishan
A trip to Alishan offers a complete experience of breathtaking natural beauty alongside the chance to savor its unique culinary culture. Don't miss out on trying local dishes such as beef noodles, stinky tofu, oyster omelettes, scallion pancakes, and braised pork rice. Street food stalls are perfect spots to enjoy these delicious dishes while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the mountains.
In addition, the Alishan forest is renowned for its local products, including tea, honey, and a variety of organic produce. Be sure to take the time to visit local shops, where you can explore and purchase these one-of-a-kind items.
Popular and Affordable Alishan Hotels
Your Alishan trip in Taiwan will be even more memorable when you choose the perfect accommodation. Here are some of the best-value hotels in Alishan that you shouldn't miss.
1. Alishan House
With its classic architecture and fully-equipped rooms, Alishan House promises a comfortable stay where you can immerse yourself in the surrounding natural beauty. The hotel's restaurant also offers a variety of delicious and unique dishes.
- Address: No.16, Xianlin Vil., Alishan Township, Chiayi
- Estimated Price: From 10 million VND per night
2. Alishan Tea Garden Hotel
Located amidst sprawling green tea fields, Alishan Tea Garden offers a stay that brings you closer to nature. The spacious rooms here are designed in a traditional Taiwanese style, combined with modern conveniences.
- Address: No.9, Longtou, Fanlu Township, Chiayi
- Estimated Price: From 3 million VND per night
3. H& Seeking - Alishan Sunrise Hotel
A perfect place to witness the Alishan sunrise, H& Seeking - Alishan Sunrise is an ideal choice for experiencing the tranquility of this magnificent natural scene. The rooms here are especially spacious, featuring large windows to offer stunning views.
- Address: No. 17-19, Longtou, Fanlu Township, Chiayi
- Reference Price: From 1.2 million per night
4. Hotel Indigo Alishan, An IHG Hotel
Hotel Indigo Alishan offers a seamless fusion of modern design and natural surroundings. With luxurious furnishings and contemporary amenities, the hotel attracts guests with its cozy atmosphere and attentive service.
- Address: No. 20, Longtou, Fanlu Township, Chiayi
- Reference Price: From 9.5 million per night
5. Alishan My Landscape Hotel
With a breathtaking view of the mountains and the surrounding green forests, Alishan My Landscape Hotel offers a comfortable and homely stay. The rooms are fully equipped with modern amenities and designed with contemporary style.
- Address: No. 19-6, Longtou, Fanlu Township, Chiayi
- Reference Price: From 2.5 million per night
Popular Tourist Attractions Near Alishan Just for You
If you plan to spend several days in Alishan, consider visiting nearby attractions to enhance your travel experience while keeping your budget in check.
1. Hinoki Village
Located to the east of Chiayi City, Hinoki Village is a unique site near Alishan. Its traditional architecture, influenced by Japanese design and built with wood, creates a rustic and natural environment that connects with the essence of nature.
Currently, Taiwan's Hinoki Village consists of 28 well-appointed houses with amenities such as food stores, souvenir shops, public restrooms, and accommodation options. These facilities are carefully designed to offer visitors a serene experience and a peaceful lifestyle during their visit.
2. The Sun Shooting Tower
The Sun Shooting Tower, located within Gia Nghia Park, rises 62 meters high and draws inspiration from the towering trees in the Alishan forest. Visitors can ascend to the 11th floor for a breathtaking view of the entire Gia Nghia city.
In addition, you can explore the Sun-shoot Art Gallery on the 10th floor, enjoy a drink at the Tower Cafe on the 11th floor, or relax in the rooftop garden on the 12th floor. This iconic structure is not only a must-visit landmark but also a hub for experiencing Gia Nghia’s culture and art.
3. Sun Moon Lake
With its serene beauty and crystal-clear waters, Sun Moon Lake offers a peaceful retreat. You can relax by gazing at the tranquil landscape of mountains and forests, or take part in water activities like kayaking to fully enjoy the lake's serene atmosphere.
The surrounding area of the lake is home to charming cafes and lakeside restaurants, perfect for unwinding and indulging in local delicacies while enjoying the stunning lake view.
4. Song Of The Forest
Song Of The Forest is a unique space located in Gia Nghia. Created using various types of wood, stone, and old railway tracks, this outdoor art installation was designed by Wang Wen Zhi.
The use of these materials not only makes the structure visually striking but also conveys an important message about environmental protection and the significance of preserving natural resources.
5. Gia Nghia Botanical Garden
The Gia Nghia Botanical Garden is an excellent attraction located near the Alishan Garden. Spanning approximately 8.6 hectares, it is home to over 140 species of plants.
Visitors to the Gia Nghia Botanical Garden can explore the rich diversity of plant life, from grasses to perennial plants, from flowers to herbs. This is not only a place to relax but also an opportunity to gain valuable insights into Taiwan's unique flora and fauna, as well as its herbal treasures.
Alishan Tourism is a magical journey that brings you closer to the mystical and delicate beauty of nature in Taiwan. Along with the majestic scenery of the Alishan mountain range, this national park is also an ideal destination to experience Taiwan's rich culture, history, and cuisine.
You can explore additional related blog posts such as 15 Famous and Attractive Travel Spots in Chiayi, Taiwan, 4-Day, 3-Night Itinerary Covering Taipei, Gia Nghia, Kaohsiung, and Hualien, 15 Affordable Taiwan Tours You Shouldn't Miss, 35 Famous Taiwan Travel Destinations for Endless Exploration, 5-Day, 4-Night Taiwan Itinerary for Independent Travelers, 4-Day, 3-Night Detailed Taiwan Travel Itinerary, Self-Guided Taiwan Travel with Extremely Useful Tips,... at Mytour Vietnam.
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