How to Visit Alishan: Sunrise, Forest Trails, Forest Railway & Map – Smile Taiwan Travel: Taipei 101 Observatory, Maokong Gondola, Xiangshan Trail

Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is one of Taiwan’s most iconic mountain destinations, renowned for its breathtaking sunrises, towering cypress forests, and mystical sea of clouds. Located in Chiayi County at an elevation of over 2,000 meters, the park offers a refreshing escape from the heat and bustle of the lowlands. With a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, it draws hikers, photographers, tea lovers, and nature enthusiasts year-round.

The area is also home to the historic Alishan Forest Railway, a narrow-gauge train system originally built during the Japanese colonial period. Inside the park, visitors can enjoy scenic trails, ancient trees over a thousand years old, serene ponds, and traditional temples nestled in the woods. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a multi-day adventure, Alishan offers a serene, unforgettable experience high in Taiwan’s central mountains.

▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding

Alishan Eryanping Trail Sea of Clouds

Luggage Storage in Alishan

1. Alishan Visitor Centre: open lockers (FREE), which are not responsible for storage (please carry valuables with you). The opening hours are 08:00-17:00. Remember to pick up your luggage during the opening hours.

2. Alishan Train Station: Paid lockers

Alishan Train Station Luggage Storage

3. Fenqihu Train Station: Paid lockers

Alishan Fenqihu Train Station Luggage Storage

Alishan Visitor Centre

Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00

Before you start exploring Alishan, don’t forget to pick up the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area brochure at the Alishan Visitor Center. This DM introduces the most worthwhile things to do in Alishan, as well as the most accurate map of the mountain.

The Alishan National Forest Recreation Area Visitor Service Center provides open lockers, which are not responsible for storage (please carry valuables with you). The opening hours are 08:00-17:00. Remember to pick up your luggage during the opening hours.

Alishan Map

Alishan Forest Map & Alishan Trail Map

Click the image to view full size

Where to Stay in Alishan

Alishan offers a range of accommodations, from mountain lodges inside the forest park to charming tea farm homestays just outside. Except for Alishan Hotel, most hotels in Alishan National Forest Recreation Area are very old. However, if you don’t drive, it is recommended to stay in the park. Even if you drive, it will take a long time to find a parking space due to the lack of parking spaces.

Staying Inside Alishan National Forest Recreation Area

Alishan Hotel (This is the most luxurious option within the park)

Alishan Hotel

Staying Near Alishan – Tea Farms & Mountain Views

Fenchihu Hotel (Fenqihu Railway Bento Original Store)

Alishan Fenqihu Hotel

Where to Eat in Alishan

Alishan might be known for its breathtaking sunrises and ancient forests, but it also offers a surprisingly tasty variety of food. From hearty mountain meals to traditional railway bentos and scenic tea cafés, there are plenty of delicious ways to refuel during your trip.

Inside the Alishan Forest Recreation Area

Shan Bin Restaurant (山賓餐廳)

Shan Bin Restaurant is a popular local eatery located near the Alishan Forest Railway Station. It serves up classic Taiwanese comfort food like stir-fried beef, mountain vegetables, hot pot, and crispy mushrooms. The warm atmosphere and generous portions make it a great stop after a day of exploring the trails.

2-person set meal NT$480 (4 dishes and 1 soup)
4-person set meal NT$980 (4 dishes and 1 hot pot)

Alishan Restaurant Shan Bin

Haishan Yuan Restaurant (海山園餐廳)

Haishan Yuan is a casual restaurant offering hearty meals featuring fresh local ingredients like bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and seasonal greens. It’s well-suited for groups or families looking for a satisfying and affordable meal inside the Alishan scenic area. Their hot pot and stir-fried dishes are especially popular among hikers.

All-you-can-eat breakfast, NT$120 per person or NT$50 for children

7-Eleven (Alishan Station)

Taiwan’s highest-altitude 7-Eleven is more than just a convenience store—it’s a lifeline for early risers and late-night travelers. It offers a wide range of instant noodles, snacks, hot meals, coffee, tea, and onigiri, all in a clean and convenient location near the Alishan Train Station. Whether you need breakfast before sunrise or a quick bite after hiking, it’s got you covered.

Alishan Restaurant 711

Naromafei Food Court (娜若瑪菲小商圈)

Naromafei Food Court is a small local food hub offering a variety of affordable eats like beef noodles, wonton soup, fried chicken, braised pork rice, fried rice, and coffee. It’s a great spot for a quick, satisfying bite at lower prices than the main service area near the train station.

Food in Fenqihu

Fenchihu Hotel – Fenqihu Railway Bento Original Store (奮起湖大飯店便當本舖)

This spot in Fenqihu is home to the original Alishan Railway Bento, a nostalgic boxed meal that dates back to the Japanese era. Each bento is packed with braised pork, tofu, pickled vegetables, and a tea egg—perfect for train rides or picnics. It’s both a tasty and cultural experience you shouldn’t miss.

Alishan Fenqihu Lunch Box

Fenqihu Donuts – 百年檜木甜甜圈

This charming little shop in Fenqihu Old Street is famous for its freshly baked donuts, made using dough that’s soft, chewy, and subtly sweet. A must-try snack while strolling Fenqihu, these donuts are best enjoyed warm—and often sell out quickly during peak hours.

Alishan Fenqihu Donuts

Things to Do in Alishan

Alishan is famous for its “Five Wonders”:

Alishan Sunrise : Best viewed from Zhushan, the sunrise paints the sky with vibrant colors as it emerges above the Central Mountain Range.

Alishan Sea of Clouds : A magical blanket of clouds often fills the valleys below the peaks, creating an ocean-like view.

Alishan Sunset : It’s one of those moments that makes you feel like you’re in a dream.

Alishan Forest : Towering ancient cypress trees, some over 2,000 years old, line peaceful walking trails.

Alishan Forest Railway : The historic Alishan Forest Railway traverses steep terrain, tunnels and tight turns, an engineering marvel from the Japanese era.

Watch the Sunrise at Zhushan

Zhushan Viewing Platform is the most popular spot in Alishan to watch the sunrise over the Central Mountain Range. As the sky shifts from dark blue to shades of orange and gold, the mountain peaks slowly light up. It’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to begin your day.

See the Sea of Clouds

Alishan is famous for its sea of clouds, a natural phenomenon where clouds gather between mountain ridges like an ocean. This is best seen at high altitudes early in the morning or after rainfall. It creates a magical, otherworldly landscape that’s perfect for photography and reflection.

Read more about Alishan Sea of Clouds

▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding

Alishan Eryanping Trail Ada

Watch the Sunset Over the Mountains

Alishan also offers spectacular sunsets from vantage points like Ciyun Temple and Xiaoliyuan Trail. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple. It’s a tranquil and romantic way to end your day in the mountains.

▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding

Alishan Sunset

Ride the Alishan Forest Railway

Alishan Forest Railway is one of the most iconic and nostalgic train journeys in Taiwan. The Alishan Forest Railway is a historic train route that travels through dense forests, tunnels, and dramatic terrain. Built during the Japanese colonial era for logging, it now offers scenic rides for visitors. The train’s vintage charm and mountain views make it a unique experience.

Read more about Alishan Forest Railway

The Alishan Forest Railway branch lines:

Alishan Main Line (Chiayi ⇄ Alishan): The Alishan Main Line runs from Chiayi Station up to Alishan Station, climbing over 2,000 meters through stunning mountain scenery, tunnels, and switchbacks. It’s a scenic and historic journey, offering a unique way to enter the Alishan region.

Alishan Zhushan Line (Sunrise Line): This line takes passengers from Alishan Station to Zhushan Station, the best spot to catch the famous Alishan sunrise. Trains depart before dawn, offering early access to the sunrise viewing platforms above the sea of clouds.

Alishan Shenmu Line (Sacred Tree Line): The Shenmu Line connects Alishan Station with the area near the Sacred Tree Trail, home to ancient cypress trees. It’s a short ride but ideal for those looking to explore Alishan’s iconic forest paths with minimal walking.

Alishan Zhaoping Line: This line runs from Alishan Station to Zhaoping Station, near the Zhaoping Park and several forest trails. It’s popular in spring when cherry blossoms bloom around the station and nearby walking routes.

Alishan Forest Railway Shenmu

Visit Fenqihu Old Street and Train Station

Fenqihu is a charming mountain town known for its nostalgic atmosphere and historic train station. The Old Street is lined with traditional shops offering local snacks like railway bento boxes and handmade mochi.

The town served as a midpoint on the Alishan railway and still retains its quaint vibe. Exploring the area gives visitors a taste of Taiwanese mountain culture and a glimpse into its railway heritage.

Visit a High-Mountain Tea Plantation

Alishan’s high-altitude climate and rich soil make it ideal for growing premium oolong tea. Visiting a tea plantation offers a peaceful escape into terraced fields with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

Guests can learn about traditional tea-making processes, sample freshly brewed tea, and even participate in tastings. It’s a sensory experience that combines nature, culture, and craftsmanship in one serene setting.

Alishan Tea Plantation

Enjoy Cherry Blossoms in Spring

Every spring, Alishan transforms into a sea of pink and white as cherry blossoms bloom across the area. The flowers create a magical contrast with the surrounding forests and mountains. It’s one of the most popular and picturesque times to visit. Cherry blossoms (March 15th to April 10th)

Hike Alishan’s Forest Trails

Alishan’s forest trails lead through towering cypress and cedar trees, moss-covered paths, and serene natural scenery. Trails like the Giant Tree Trail and the Sacred Tree Trail are well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient trees, shrines, and stunning viewpoints.

Classic Alishan Forest Trail Route for First-Timers

The forest trail route gives you a perfect blend of nature, iconic sights, and peaceful vibes. This will be a half-day to full-day walking itinerary, depending on your pace — and don’t worry, the trails are all well-maintained, safe, and scenic.

Duration: 3 to 6 hours (leisurely pace, with photo & rest stops)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate — wooden paths, stairs, and forest trails
Highlights: Sacred trees, ponds, temples, misty forest vibes

Opening Hours

Park Access

The Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is open 24 hours a day, all year round. Visitors can enter at any time—day or night—making it ideal for early morning sunrise trips or late-night arrivals.

Note: The park may temporarily close in case of extreme weather like typhoons or earthquakes, so it’s always a good idea to check for alerts on the official website before your trip.

Main Facilities & Attractions – Opening Times

Visitor Center: 08:00 – 17:00 Great for maps, tips, and info
Alishan Museum: 08:30 – 16:30 Displays on history, forestry, and culture
Ecology Exhibition Hall: 08:30 – 16:30 (Summer 07:00) Hours may start earlier during March–October

What This Means for You

You can enter the park anytime, especially useful if you’re heading up early for the sunrise at Zhushan.

Most buildings and services (like the visitor center and museum) operate during standard daytime hours.

Early morning or late night? Be sure to plan for limited services outside regular hours—bring water, warm clothing, and anything else you might need.

Price

Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
Full fare Ticket: NT$300 (Foreigner ticket)
Standard Discount Ticket: NT$150 (Tourist holds a ticket for taking public transportation bus)

Tickets

■ Alishan National Forest Recreation Area Ticket

■ Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Bus Alishan Route Round-trip Tickets (4 times get-on or get-off each way for both Route A or B; one ticket per person; please scan the QR code every time getting on the bus and finish using within 3 days)

■ Alishan Tour Package: Popular Attractions + Souvenirs

■ Chiayi Alishan – Xuyue Sightseeing Train

■ Chiayi Taiping Suspension Bridge Ticket

Alishan Forest Railway Shenmu 2

The Best Time to Visit

Alishan Average Temperature by Month

According to the statistics of rainfall days in Alishan, the best tourist season in Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is from October to March of the following year. Due to the influence of the northeast monsoon, it is easier to see sea of clouds and cloud waterfalls during this period.

The Alishan area is surrounded by mountains, with a cool climate, high humidity and abundant rainfall. The rainy season is from April to September, and the dry season is from October to March of the following year. In addition, dense fog occurs from time to time, so you need to be extra careful when traveling.

Alishan Weather & Seasons – A Year-Round Guide

Alishan is about 2,200 (7,200 ft) meters above sea level. Alishan has a cool, temperate mountain climate — a peaceful escape from Taiwan’s humid lowlands. Here’s a detailed introduction to Alishan’s four seasons and temperatures, so you’ll know exactly what to expect (and pack) when visiting.

Spring (March – May)

Average Temperature: 5°C – 20°C (41°F – 68°F)
Weather: Mild days, chilly mornings & evenings. Occasional mist or light rain.

Highlights:
Cherry blossoms (March 15th to April 10th) – one of the biggest attractions
Lush forests waking up from winter
Sunrise and “sea of clouds” views are often stunning

Summer (June – August)

Average Temperature: 12°C – 24°C (54°F – 75°F)
Weather: Cool and comfortable, but can be humid. Frequent afternoon fog or rain, especially in July/August.

Highlights:
Perfect for escaping Taiwan’s city heat
Lush green landscapes and hiking trails
Misty, mysterious forest vibes in the late afternoon

Autumn (September – November)

Average Temperature: 7°C – 20°C (45°F – 68°F)
Weather: Clear, dry, and pleasantly cool. Probably the best weather of the year.

Highlights:
Maple leaves turning red and gold (late Oct to Nov)
Crisp air, less fog, clearer views for sunrise and cloud sea
Great for photography, hiking, and peaceful walks

Winter (December – February)

Average Temperature: 1°C – 15°C (33°F – 59°F)
Weather: Cold, especially at night. Rare snow, but frost and icy mornings are common.
Highlights:

Serene and peaceful — fewer crowds
Beautiful sunrises over crisp, frosty forests

Bonus Tip

The temperature on the mountain is relatively low in the early morning, so please prepare warm clothes. Even in summer, early mornings (especially if you’re catching the sunrise at Zhushan) can be below 10°C (50°F). So always pack layers, no matter the season.

How to Get to Alishan

If you take the bus from Chiayi or Fenqihu, your journey will end at the Alishan Bus Station (阿里山轉運站). From there, it’s just a 2-minute walk uphill to reach the official entrance gate of the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area. Clear signs along the way make it easy to find, and the short walk offers your first taste of Alishan’s cool mountain air and forest scenery.

Taipei to Alishan

High-Speed Rail (HSR) + Bus

1. Take HSR to Chiayi Station

HSR from Taipei → Chiayi: ~1 hr 30 min

2. Take the Alishan Forest Bus to Alishan

From Chiayi HSR or TRA Station to Alishan: ~2 hr 30 min

Cash Fares or EasyCard Fares

Read more about Chiayi to Alishan Bus Schedule

Taichung to Alishan

HSR Taichung → HSR Chiayi (~30 min)

Follow same bus transfer as above

Kaohsiung (Zuoying HSR Station) to Alishan

HSR Zuoying → Chiayi (~50 min)

Transfer to TRA station & take the Alishan Forest Bus

Alternative: Alishan Forest Railway (Scenic Route)

From Chiayi TRA Station, take the Alishan Forest Railway

Train goes to Fenqihu or Alishan Station (≈5 hrs)

Highly scenic but slower

Only 1–2 trains per day, often booked in advance

Tips for Visiting Alishan

Stay Overnight: Catch sunrise at Zhushan, ride the Alishan Forest Train, and enjoy sacred trees and tea farms.

Book Accommodation Early, especially during cherry blossom season (March–April)

Dress warm: temperatures can drop below 10°C year-round

Day Tour

From Taipei

■ Chiayi Alishan & Nantou Sun Moon Lake 3-day tour (From Taipei)

■ Alishan Private 2-Day Tour (Fom Taipei)

■ Sun Moon Lake & Alishan Private 3-Day Tour (From Taipei)

■ Chiayi Alishan 2-day tour, including cultural experience and attraction tickets (From Taipei)

From Taichung

■ Alishan Forest Railway 1-Day & Multi-Day Tour (From Taichung)

From Chiayi

■ Chiayi: Alishan Day Tour & Multi-Day Tour (From Chiayi)

■ Alishan Mianyue Line Hiking Day Tour (From Chiayi)

From Kaohsiung

■ Alishan Day Tour (From Taichung, Chiayi, or Kaohsiung)

■ Chiayi: Alishan Mountain Discovery Journey (From Kaohsiung)

Alishan Tourist Minibus

The Alishan Tourist e-Minibus can replace some walking routes in the park. The bus is a point-to-point shuttle and does not take tourists around the entire park area.

Operation Information: Daily service hours
April to September:08:00 to 18:00
October to March: 08:00 to 17:00

The location of the minibus station can be found on the Alishan map above.

Alishan Minibus

Zhuoping Line (Blue Line) / Xianglin Line (Red Line)

Zhuoping Line (Blue Line)

There are two boarding locations: Terminal and the Visitor Center Station. The bus stops in front of Zhuoping Park. Visitors can get off at Zhuoping Station and walk to the Sisters Pond and other attractions.

Xianglin Line (Red Line)

There are two boarding locations: Terminal and the tourist center station. The bus stops next to Shouzhen Temple. Visitors can get off at Xianglin Station and walk to the giant tree trail and other attractions.

Shift time: No fixed shift, flexible arrangement at each station

Departure Interval

Visitor Center Station → Zhuoping Station: The distance is about 2.2 kilometers. The travel time, including the time for tourists to get on and off the bus, is about 10 minutes.

Visitor Center Station → Xianglin Station: The distance is about 1.8 kilometers. The travel time, including the time for tourists to get on and off the bus, is about 8 minutes.

Zhuoping Station → Xianglin Station / Visitor Center Station: The distance is about 1.2 kilometers. The travel time, including the time for tourists to get on and off the bus, is about 6 minutes.

Zhushan Line (Yllow Lne)

There are two boarding locations: Visitor Center Station and Zhuoping Station.
The bus stops at Duegaoyue Station and you get off at Zhushan Station. If you wish to take the return Zhushan Line, please follow the timetable.

Uphill: 09:00/11:00/13:00/15:00/16:00
Downhill: 09:30/11:00/13:30/15:30/16:30

Departure Interval
Visitor Center Station → Zhushan Station: The distance is about 5.5 kilometers. The driving time, including the time for tourists to get on and get off the bus, is about 35 minutes.

Zhushan Stargazing Route

The boarding point is the Visitor Center Station (via Zhuoping Station) to Zhushan and back.
The night tour of Zhushan (round-trip tickets only) departs at 19:00 AM (the tour will be cancelled in case of bad weather) and 21:00 returns from Zhushan.

The stargazing activity will decide whether to sell tickets based on the weather conditions on the day. Tickets can be purchased on site after 17:30.

Zhushan Sunrise e-Minbus

You can purchase pre-sale tickets at the Visitor Center Station before 4:40 p.m. the day before.
Zhushan Line one-way ticket: Full fare NT$ 150, Half fare NT$ 75
Zhushan Line round trip ticket: Full fare NT$ 300, Half fare NT$ 150