Alishan Forest Recreation Area
Located in Alishan Township, Chiayi County, on a branch of the Yushan Range, Alishan is one of Taiwan's most iconic scenic areas. Its “Five Wonders” are sunrise, sea of clouds, railways,…
Alishan Forest Recreation Area, Taichung
Key facts
- Time needed
- 4–8 hours
- Getting there
- Tour buses run to Alishan from Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung, making it very convenient to get there.
- Guidebook rating
- 4 / 5
From China Self Guided Travel 2025, page 2701. Open in Google Maps
About Alishan Forest Recreation Area
Located in Alishan Township, Chiayi County, on a branch of the Yushan Range, Alishan is one of Taiwan's most iconic scenic areas. Its “Five Wonders” are sunrise, sea of clouds, railways, forests and sunset glow. The Alishan Forest Railway, a showcase of early engineering, is also well worth experiencing. The mountain scenery is truly outstanding and not to be missed!
Tips from the guidebook
- Forest railway: The Alishan Forest Railway climbs from Jiayi Beimen Station, at an elevation of 30 m, passing through 47 tunnels and 72 bridges. It crosses Dulishan (独立山) and reaches Zhaoping Station (沼平车站) at 2,216 m. It is a thrilling mountain journey. Tickets are hard to come by, so be sure to book in advance.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Alishan Forest Recreation Area?
Tour buses run to Alishan from Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung, making it very convenient to get there.
How long should I spend at Alishan Forest Recreation Area?
Plan on 4–8 hours for Alishan Forest Recreation Area.
Where is Alishan Forest Recreation Area?
Alishan Forest Recreation Area is in Taichung, Taiwan Region, in the South China of China.
More places in Taichung
Alishan
“The girls of Alishan are as lovely as water, the boys of Alishan as sturdy as mountains…” Humming this song while touring Alishan feels just wonderful. Alishan is high and densely forested, and its sea of clouds and forest waves at the summit are magnificent. The main peak rises to 2663 metres above sea level, making it one of Taiwan's most representative scenic areas.
NT$300 · 1–2 days
Lukang Town
Thirty years ago, Luo Dayou's hit song “Lukang Town” swept the nation, turning this ancient town on Taiwan's central west coast into a dream destination for many. Legend says Lukang is the dragon head of Changhua County's dragon vein, and it enjoys the reputation of being the “Little Quanzhou.” Lukang has preserved its original character, allowing visitors to explore ancient lanes, old shops and centuries-old temples in search of its rich heritage.
0.5–1 day
Qingjing Farm
Qingjing Farm is located in Datong Village, Ren'ai Township, Nantou County, built into the mountainside. Qingqing Grassland is often shrouded in mist, and its scenery looks like an ink-wash oil painting. The sheep are adorable and friendly, and the sheep-shearing show is lively and entertaining. Little Switzerland's ticket is rather pricey and it lacks novelty, so it is not recommended.
Qingqing Grassland: NT$160 full price on weekdays, NT$200 full price on holidays · 1–2 days
Lukang Longshan Temple
Lukang Longshan Temple is a first-class historic monument in Taiwan and represents a peak of urban Buddhist temple architecture. The temple has 99 doors, and the complex is divided into front, middle and rear halls. Having stood for more than 200 years, it still retains its original appearance and has had a major influence on Taiwan's history and culture.
1 hour
Sun Moon Lake
The fame of Sun Moon Lake needs no introduction; it has almost become synonymous with Taiwan. Whatever you think of the scenery, if you have been to Taiwan and haven't visited Sun Moon Lake, people will tell you it's a real pity. Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan's largest natural lakes, covering 9 square kilometres. It is also known as the “Heavenly Lake of Taiwan.”
Miyahara
Miyahara Eye Clinic was once an eye hospital run by Japanese doctor Miyahara Takeo, and it is now one of Taichung's must-visit attractions. The building retains its Japanese architectural style, faithfully recreating the retro charm of an old Western-style house. As the flagship store of the Sunrise Group (日出集团), Miyahara Eye Clinic has become a paradise for dessert lovers. Pastries, chocolate, milk tea and even Taiwanese traditional dishes all have a distinctive taste. It is a must-visit for many dessert fans.
1–2 hours