2026 Chiayi County Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

#adventuretrips headed to Chiayi County? Let me hype up one absolute must: Alishan National Forest Recreation Area! 🌲🌄 If you crave epic sunrises, magical forest rails, and surreal misty landscapes, this is 100% the spot your bucket list’s been missing. Top Spot to Visit: Alishan National Forest Recreation Area (605, Taiwan, Chiayi County, Alishan Township, 59號, Open 24/7; Admission: 43.0 TWD) Seriously, this place is legendary for its ancient cypress forests, cherry blossoms (in season!), and that Insta-famous sunrise over a sea of clouds. The iconic Alishan Forest Railway is a gorgeous, retro way to enter the park—highly recommended if you’ve got time. Hot Tips from My Adventure: · Arrive early for the sunrise! The first train up to Zhushan viewing platform is a must. There will be crowds, but it’s so worth it for the golden hour glow. · Pack layers—the weather here flips fast, mist to sun to chilly breezes in a blink. · Don’t bother with taxis; buses run regularly from Chiayi, and the park is super walkable. · Grab coffee at a mountain café—Alishan beans are famous and totally hit different up here. Getting Around: I used public buses from Chiayi, which were easy, affordable, and way less hassle than driving. Inside the park, all the main trails and points (Giant Tree Trail, Sisters Ponds, temple) are well-marked. Food Fave: Don’t skip the BBQ tofu and wild veggie bentos from the little stalls near the forest entrance—they’re cheap, hearty, and full of local flavor! #AlishanVibes #TaiwanTravel #MistyMountains #EcoEscape #tripdotcom

If you're planning a trip to Taiwan in February, you absolutely can't miss the Yuanxiao Festival, or Lantern Festival, which only happens once a year! This year, it's returning in Taoyuan after a nine-year hiatus, and the vibrant lanterns illuminating the night sky are breathtaking. If you enjoy editing photos with a teal and orange color scheme, highlighting the orange of the lanterns will give you stunning, artistic, and dimensional pictures. The festival will be held in two zones: Zone 1: Main Lantern Zone, in front of Taoyuan MRT Station (A18). Zone 2: Light Playground Zone, around Taoyuan Stadium (A19). The scale of the event: Over 300 lantern pieces will be on display, blending Taoyuan's local culture, baseball, technology, and the environment. The main lantern, "Island of Endless Fun," is a design welcoming the Year of the Snake, featuring an infinity symbol (inspired by roller coasters), incorporating patterns celebrating the Taiwanese national baseball team's victories, and utilizing cutting-edge AI motion capture technology. Adorable Exhibition Zones: The Light Playground Zone features 5 sub-themes to explore. Must-sees include the giant Snorlax lantern from Pokémon in the Qingtang Garden zone and the inflatable art in the Bouncing Circus zone. 🚇 Transportation Information and How to Get There Airport MRT: This is the recommended and most economical option. Get off at station A18 or A19. The fare is cheaper than the HSR (High-Speed ​​Rail). High-Speed ​​Rail (HSR): Get off at Taoyuan Station. Exit the station and follow the signs for the festival. Buses: Express bus 206 and city buses 170, 208, 302, T513, and T515 are available. There is also a free shuttle bus between stations A18 and A19. Private Car: Bringing your own car is not recommended due to limited parking at the HSR Taoyuan area (only 7,980 spaces) and heavy traffic. 💰 Costs and Admission Fees Admission: Free! #TaiwanTravel #TaiwanLanternFestival2025 #TaiwanLanternFestival #TaiwanReview #Taoyuan #Taiwan2025 #TravelTaiwanIndependently

🏡 Address: Alishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan ☺️☺️☺️ 🚍 Transportation: Take the High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Chiayi Station, then transfer to the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Alishan Route A/B for a direct ride. 🎈🎈🎈 🚍 Bus ride: Approx. 2.5 hours 😍😍😍 🚍 Bus fare: NT$283 one-way 💕💕💕 🚆 Forest Railway ride: Approx. 10–15 minutes 🥰🥰🥰 🚆 Forest Railway fare: NT$600 💖💖💖 🏜️ Attractions in the park: 1. Alishan National Forest Recreation Area: Features the towering Giant Tree Trail, the emerald Sister Ponds, and top spots for sunrise viewing. 2. Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform: Take the Alishan Forest Railway up the mountain. It's the premier spot for taking in the magnificent sunrise and sea of clouds—an absolute must-see! 3. Mt. Ogasawara Viewing Platform: Offers a 360-degree panoramic view where you can soak in the stunning mountains and spectacular sunsets, making the whole trek totally worth it!

Taiwan Travel Guide: Flights, Night Markets, Attractions & Transport Planning your first trip to Taiwan? ✈️ Here’s a quick guide covering flights, must-visit night markets, top attractions, and easy transportation to help you plan your trip! ✈️ Flights to Taiwan Flying from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Taipei (TPE) is convenient, with direct flight options available. 💰 From RM406 one way 🧳 1 carry-on bag included ✈️ Direct flight ⏱️ Around 5 hours Always check the latest fare and baggage conditions before booking, as prices may change. 🌙 6 Must-Visit Night Markets Taiwan is a paradise for food lovers! Don’t miss: 1. Shilin Night Market – Famous for street food, shopping & games 2. Raohe Night Market – Traditional snacks and the iconic pepper pork buns 3. Fengjia Night Market – One of Taiwan’s biggest night markets 4. Liuhe Night Market – Seafood and local Taiwanese specialties 5. Ningxia Night Market – Small but packed with classic Taiwanese food 6. Hualien Dongdamen Night Market – Local food with a relaxed atmosphere 🍢 Must-try: Oyster Omelette, Fried Chicken, Pepper Pork Buns, Stinky Tofu, Bubble Tea & Grilled Seafood 📍 9 Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss From city views to mountain scenery, Taiwan has something for everyone: 🏙️ Taipei 101 🌊 Sun Moon Lake 🏔️ Taroko Gorge 🏮 Jiufen Old Street 🚂 Alishan 🏝️ Kenting National Park 🌅 Tamsui Old Street 🏛️ National Palace Museum 🌾 Gaomei Wetland 🚇 Getting Around Taiwan Getting around is surprisingly easy! 🚆 MRT – The easiest way to explore Taipei and Kaohsiung 🚕 Grab / Taxi – Great for door-to-door convenience 🚌 Airport Bus – Affordable option from the airport 🚄 High-Speed Rail – Perfect for travelling between major cities 💳 EasyCard – Super convenient for MRT, buses and many everyday purchases For Taipei, the Taoyuan Airport MRT is one of the easiest ways to get from the airport into the city. ❤️ Save This for Your Taiwan Trip! Good food, beautiful scenery, convenient transport and vibrant night markets — Taiwan is definitely a destination worth adding to your travel list! ✨ #TaiwanTravel #TaiwanTrip #TaipeiTravel #VisitTaiwan #TaiwanNightMarket #ShilinNightMarket #Taipei101 #Jiufen #SunMoonLake #TaiwanFood #TaiwanStreetFood #TaiwanItinerary #TaiwanAttractions #TravelTaiwan #TripCom

If you're looking for a nature getaway in Taiwan with stunning scenery and great weather all year round, Alishan is definitely the perfect answer! For this trip, we focused on convenience, fully immersing ourselves in nature while hitting all the highlight check-in spots. Let's dive into what makes this trip so special. 🎫 Booking Tickets and Getting to the Park Since convenience was our priority, we booked everything—from bus tickets to park admission—through the Trip.com app. When we arrived, all we had to do was open the app and scan the QR code. It saved us so much time, with no need to wait in line to buy tickets on-site. For transportation, we took a direct bus all the way up the mountain, dropping us right at the bus stop in front of the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area entrance. The mountain road is quite winding, so if you're prone to motion sickness, taking some meds beforehand is highly recommended. However, as the bus gradually ascended, the views on both sides became increasingly breathtaking. It's totally worth the ride! 🚂 Special Highlight: The Hinoki Wooden Train (Wednesdays Only) If your visit falls on a Wednesday, consider yourself incredibly lucky! That's when Alishan operates its ultra-classic Hinoki Train (instead of the usual red ones). The entire train is crafted from Hinoki cypress wood, giving the interior a subtle, soothing woody fragrance. The photos you'll snap here have an amazing retro vibe, and the scenery as the train chugs through the pine forest is simply spectacular. 🥾 Recommended Hiking Route: Zhaoping ➡️ Shenmu To keep things relaxed and avoid getting too exhausted, we suggest taking this downhill route: · Ride the Alishan Forest Railway from the main station (Alishan Station) and get off at Zhaoping Station. · From there, stroll along the nature trail, gently making your way down the mountain. The weather is cool, breezy, and wonderfully shaded. · Finish your hike at Shenmu Station, then catch the train back to the main station. 📍 Must-Visit Check-in Spots Along the Way The trail from Zhaoping to Shenmu is packed with fantastic photo opportunities. Get your camera ready and make sure to stop at these spots: · Sister Ponds: Serene emerald ponds deep in the forest, so still that they perfectly reflect the surrounding trees and the wooden pavilion in the water. It’s an absolutely gorgeous spot for photography. · Shouzhen Temple: The highest-elevation temple in Taiwan. It’s a great place to take a breather and pray to the Earth God for good fortune. You'll also find food stalls and restrooms available out front. · Boat-shaped Bridge: A uniquely curved wooden bridge designed to look like a ship's hull, nestled perfectly in the pine forest. It looks incredibly chic and blends seamlessly with nature in photos. · Three Generations Tree: A true marvel of nature where three generations of trees have grown on top of the same stump and root system. · Xianglin Giant Tree: The ultimate highlight of the forest! A towering, colossal red cypress tree that’s thousands of years old (now designated as Alishan's 2nd-generation sacred tree). Standing next to it will make you feel as small as an ant! If you're planning a trip to Taiwan, definitely add Alishan to your itinerary. With incredible views and amazing weather, it's the perfect place to recharge your batteries to 100%!

Planning an Alishan trip? 🌲 Here's something to think about before booking your stay. You basically have 2 options: 🌅 **Stay inside Alishan** → Easier for sunrise → Close to the forest railway & trails → More convenient, but usually more expensive 🌄 **Stay outside Alishan** → Quieter → More accommodation options → Beautiful mountain views → But you need extra travel time I personally stayed outside Alishan, and I really enjoyed it. For me, waking up to the mountain view was already worth it. 🤍 Would you stay inside or outside Alishan?

Just got back from the island|Honestly advising everyone not to come in August or September! Full record of all the pitfalls faced 😭 Just finished circling the island. To be honest, visiting Taiwan in August and September seriously affects the experience. Here’s a summary of my real travel impressions. If you’re planning a trip, please read this before deciding! ❌ Four major reasons to avoid August and September—unavoidable hassles 1. High heat and humidity make it unbearably muggy, hard to spend time outdoors The whole island has a year-round humidity above 80% in summer. Taipei and Taichung daytime temperatures stay steady at 33–36℃, and southern Kenting even exceeds 38℃. The heat feels intense, with perceived temperatures close to 40℃. Walking outside for just a few minutes leaves you sticky and sweaty. Hiking Yangmingshan, Alishan, climbing the hills of Pingxi Old Street and Jiufen Mountain Town is a struggle. Between noon and 3 PM, outdoor activities are impossible—you’ll get dizzy and overheated after just a few steps. Afternoons almost always bring sudden short heavy rain. One moment it’s bright sun, the next it’s pouring. Cameras and belongings get soaked easily, and plans get frequently interrupted. 2. Typhoon season means trips can be canceled at any time July to September is the peak typhoon season, with August at its highest and September’s autumn typhoons generally stronger and less predictable. When a typhoon warning is issued, these problems happen: ✅ Many flights between Taiwan and mainland China are delayed or canceled, and ferries stop running ✅ Suhua Highway and the entire eastern route through Hualien and Taitung close, ruining island tours ✅ Alishan, Taroko Gorge, and coastal Kenting attractions close temporarily ✅ Local authorities suspend work and school, night markets, shops, and attractions shut down, leaving you stuck in your hotel Some friends planned an 8-day island tour but got stuck in Taipei for 3 days due to a typhoon. Half their trip was canceled, and it’s hard to get full refunds for flights and hotels. 3. The lunar Ghost Festival month dampens the atmosphere From mid-August to mid-September is the Ghost Month, a traditional local festival that affects travel: Many locals avoid traveling, and some mountain and seaside spots are considered taboo to visit; several outdoor events and night markets reduce their schedules; mountain inns and countryside shops close early, so you won’t experience the usual lively island nightlife. 4. High risks for island tours mean you miss the best mountain and sea views Taiwan’s highlights fall into two categories: eastern sea cliffs and mountains with clouds and lakes, all limited by summer weather. Heat and showers cause thick mountain fog. Visibility at Sun Moon Lake, Qingjing Farm, and Hehuan Mountain is very low, making it impossible to capture clear, stunning photos. Strong winds and waves on the east coast lead to temporary closures of cliff trails, so you can’t get close to the breathtaking Pacific coastline. Even beach activities in Kenting are restricted during typhoon warnings—no snorkeling or surfing allowed, making the trip pointless. ✅ If your trip is already booked|Emergency travel tips for August and September If you can’t change your dates, follow these tips to reduce risks: 1. Skip the island tour and stick to northern cities Focus on indoor spots in Taipei and New Taipei: Taipei 101, cultural and creative districts, museums, and art galleries. Stay indoors during the day to avoid the heat, then visit Shilin and Raohe night markets in the evening. Avoid eastern, mountainous, and coastal long-distance routes. 2. Strictly avoid peak heat hours Go out between 6:30 AM and 9 AM to explore old streets and Jiufen; return to your hotel for a midday rest; head out again after 5 PM to avoid the midday heat. 3. Must-have travel items High-SPF waterproof sunscreen, cooling arm sleeves, sun hat, portable raincoat, large water bottle, herbal remedy for heatstroke, mosquito repellent. Bring a light jacket because malls have very cold air conditioning, and switching between hot and cold can cause colds. 4. Buy travel insurance Make sure your policy covers typhoons and flight cancellations. This can help recover some losses if your trip is disrupted. Check weather alerts daily and adjust your plans flexibly. 🌟 Best times to visit Taiwan year-round (precise recommendations) ▪️ March to May spring|Top choice! Temperatures 20–28℃, little rain, cherry blossoms at Yangmingshan and flower seas at Alishan bloom, perfect for hiking and island tours ▪️ October to November fall|Best season! Typhoons are gone, dry and cool, clear mountain and sea views, stunning cloud seas and coastlines for photos, ideal for self-driving island tours ❌ July to September|High heat, heavy rain, and typhoons combine—avoid unless necessary 💡 Final honest advice Taiwan’s mountains, seas, night markets, and culture are truly worth visiting, but the seasonal differences are huge. If it’s your first time and you want to see the coastline, mountain lakes, and hidden villages all at once, definitely avoid August and September. If you just want to explore city night markets and indoor cultural spots, prepare well for the heat and typhoons before you go!

#underratedspots Nestled in the mountains of Chiayi County, Alishan ALISHAN - A MAGICAL MOUNTAIN ESCAPE IN TAIWAN 🌄 Waking up early in Alishan might be difficult… but trust me, it's totally worth it. Located in Chiayi, Taiwan, Alishan is famous for its sunrise, sea of clouds, ancient forests, and peaceful mountain atmosphere. The moment you arrive, the fresh air and quiet surroundings make you feel like you've escaped from the busy city. MY ALISHAN EXPERIENCE 🌅 Wake up before sunrise and wait for the golden light above the clouds 🚂 Take the famous Alishan Forest Railway through the mountains 🌲 Walk among huge ancient trees and peaceful forest trails ☕ Enjoy a warm cup of Alishan high mountain tea while relaxing in nature The best feeling is standing above the clouds and watching the mountains slowly appear as the sunlight rises. It feels unreal, like a scene from a movie. TRAVEL TIPS 🧥 Bring a jacket — the mountain temperature can be much cooler than the city. 👟 Wear comfortable shoes because there are many walking paths to explore. 📅 Check the weather before visiting, as the sea of clouds and sunrise depend on conditions. ALISHAN WHERE THE CLOUDS MEET THE MOUNTAINS Fresh air. Beautiful views. Slow mornings. A place where you can truly relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Alishan – A Taiwan mountain escape that you should experience at least once. National Scenic Area is one of Taiwan's most breathtaking natural destinations. Famous for its spectacular sunrise, mystical sea of clouds, ancient forests, and charming mountain railway, Alishan offers an unforgettable escape into nature throughout every season. DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS · Taiwan's most famous mountain retreat · Spectacular sunrise viewpoints · Magical sea of clouds · Thousand-year-old cypress forests · Historic Alishan Forest Railway · Beautiful scenery in every season THE ALISHAN EXPERIENCE · Ride the iconic mountain railway · Watch the sunrise above the clouds · Walk through peaceful forest trails · Breathe in the fresh mountain air · Capture stunning panoramic landscapes · Experience Taiwan's natural beauty at its finest EXPLORE NEARBY · Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform · Sisters Ponds · Sacred Tree Relics · Fenqihu Old Street · Shouzhen Temple · Endless mountain landscapes and forest views ALISHAN FLAVOURS · Alishan High Mountain Tea · Bamboo Tube Rice · Mountain Hot Pot · Wild Mushroom Dishes · Aiyu Jelly · Traditional Taiwanese Snacks · Fresh Handmade Mochi ALISHAN WHERE THE CLOUDS TOUCH THE MOUNTAINS Golden sunrise. Ancient forests. Peaceful mountain air. Endless sea of clouds. A journey you'll never forget. Alishan – Experience the Beauty Above the Clouds. #alishan #taiwan #chiayi #mountainescape #naturelovers #sunrise #seaofclouds #traveltaiwan #forestrailway

Girls! This 5-day Taipei travel guide is super hassle-free, with an all-inclusive option that lets you take a lake cruise on Sun Moon Lake to see the views of Sun Lake, Moon Lake, Lalu Island, and Xuanguang Temple. Save it now! . Don’t rush off! Scroll down for more useful tips~ . ✈️ Itinerary: D1: Depart and arrive in Taipei. Check in to your chosen hotel in Taipei D2: National Palace Museum > Yangmingshan National Park > Qingtian Gang > Fengjia Night Market D3: Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area > Wenwu Temple > Ci’en Hall > Xuanguang Temple. Take a lake cruise to enjoy views of Sun Lake, Moon Lake, Lalu Island, and Xuanguang Temple D4: Alishan National Scenic Area > Sister Ponds > Shouzhen Temple > Xianglin Sacred Tree > Liuhe Night Market D5: Transfer to Kaohsiung airport. End of trip based on flight time . Must-see attractions: 🌲 Yangmingshan National Park: Volcanic activity created beautiful hot springs, grasslands, and azalea fields! During flower season, the Yangming Creek trail is perfect for walking, family outings, and nature photography. The Xiaoyoukeng trail offers an immersive volcanic geological experience. Climb Qixing Mountain for panoramic views of the Taipei Basin and northern coastline. Erziping is one of Taiwan’s earliest accessible mountain trails, great for an easy forest bath and relaxation~ 🌊 Sun Moon Lake: The ultimate lake and mountain scenery surrounded by green hills and clear water! The annual mass swim event is lively and fun. Registration opens July 1, 2026. Join a team to fully experience the lake loop. If you miss out, you can still take a boat cruise, bike the lakeside trail, or ride the cable car for stunning views! 🌸 Alishan National Scenic Area: Beautiful scenery all year round, especially during the 2026 flower season from March to April when 31 types of cherry blossoms bloom in succession! From mountain cherry to Somei Yoshino and double-flowered cherries, plus magnolias and azaleas competing in bloom. Check flower conditions in advance and bring warm clothes~ . 👜 Documents: Entry permit, ID card, Hong Kong and Macau travel permit (with endorsement). It’s safer to make copies in advance 👚 Clothing: Lightweight, breathable summer clothes and a light jacket. Taipei’s indoor air conditioning is strong. Also bring a comfortable pair of sandals 🧰 Accessories: Sun hat, umbrella, power bank, mosquito repellent. July in Taipei is sunny with occasional showers . Ready for a relaxing trip? Click the card below to start your personalized itinerary now~

#arrivalguide Most travelers visit Alishan for the famous sunrise, but I think the mountain deserves much more than a rushed day trip. Nestled over 2,000 meters above sea level, Alishan is best known for its century-old cypress forests, historic mountain railway, breathtaking sunrises, and the magical sea of clouds. Even if you're not lucky enough to catch the sea of clouds—as I wasn't—the journey itself is already worth it. 🚄 My route: Taipei → HSR to Chiayi → Bus to Alishan The next day: Alishan → Bus to Chiayi → HSR to Taichung If I could give only one piece of advice, it would be this: stay for 2 days and 1 night. Arriving in the afternoon lets you explore the forest railway, wander through the giant cedar trees, and enjoy a peaceful mountain sunset. Then wake up before dawn to take the famous sunrise train. Buy this train ticket as soon as you arrive—it often sells out. A useful transportation tip: booking the Alishan bus can be confusing. Reserve it online in advance and print your ticket at FamilyMart. During weekends and holidays, buying at the station doesn't guarantee you'll get a seat. Also remember that Chiayi has both an HSR Station and a TRA Railway Station, so make sure you book the bus from the correct station. 🏨 About accommodation: For the best experience, stay inside the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area. The hotels are older and the facilities are fairly basic because everything is located high in the mountains. Prices are also much higher than in Chiayi, but the convenience of being able to walk to the sunrise train is absolutely worth it. 💰 Money-saving tip: When I visited Taiwan, HSR was running a 1-for-1 promotion (or around 15% off selected southbound tickets from Taipei). These promotional tickets were also available on Trip.com, so it's worth checking before your trip. I didn't get to see the legendary sea of clouds this time. Maybe that's exactly why I'll be back. #taiwan #alishan #chiayi #taiwantravel #traveltips #mountainrailway #sunrise #tripcom

#worthitornot Worth It or Not? Alishan in the Rain 🌧️🌲 For us, it's both yes and no. We took the bus from Taichung to Alishan, which took around 3.5 hours each way. Unfortunately, the weather wasn't on our side. It rained for most of the day, visibility was poor, and we spent much of our visit walking around in raincoats instead of admiring the sweeping mountain views Alishan is famous for. If your main reason for visiting is the sunrise, sea of clouds, and panoramic viewpoints, then rainy weather can definitely be disappointing. There were moments when all we could see was a wall of white fog. That said, the rain gave Alishan a completely different character. The mist weaving through the ancient cedar trees made the forests feel almost otherworldly, and some trails felt like we were literally walking through the clouds. While we didn't get the postcard views, we experienced a side of Alishan that felt peaceful and atmospheric in its own way. Looking back, would we spend 7 hours on a round-trip bus journey again if we knew visibility would be this poor? Probably not. But did we regret going? Not at all. What we would do differently next time is stay overnight. Trying to squeeze Alishan into a day trip felt rushed, especially with the long journey and unpredictable mountain weather. We'd love to plan a 2-day, 1-night trip next time, giving ourselves more chances to catch clear skies, explore the trails at a slower pace, and maybe even finally see the famous sunrise. Short verdict: ✅ Worth it if you enjoy misty forests, mountain scenery, and don't mind unpredictable weather ✅ Worth it if Alishan has always been on your Taiwan bucket list ❌ Not worth a 3.5-hour journey each way if you're only going for the viewpoints and clear mountain views ❌ Not ideal as a rushed day trip, especially when the weather isn't cooperating 💡 If we went again, we'd stay overnight instead of doing a day trip — Alishan feels like a place that's best enjoyed over two days rather than one. 🌲☁️🌧️ Do you think it’s worth it? #citydaytours #travel2026 #thingstodo #myitinerary #couplestrip #taiwan #taipei #nantou #alishan

Every time I depart from Terminal 2 of Taoyuan International Airport, I arrive a little early, not just to check in, but also to have time to browse the souvenir street on the second floor. I used to think that airport souvenirs were expensive and had limited selection, but after walking around, I discovered that it gathers almost all the well-known Taiwanese brands. Whether it's gifts for family and friends or personal souvenirs, you can buy everything you need in one place, without having to worry about making a special trip to the city to buy things before departure. The souvenir street in Terminal 2 gathers many classic Taiwanese brands and is also the last stop for many travelers to shop before boarding. My most recommended souvenir: · Pineapple Cake When visiting Taiwan, pineapple cake is almost the most representative souvenir. I especially like the native pineapple flavor; the filling has a natural fruity aroma and a slightly tart taste, paired with a crisp, milky crust, not too sweet, and loved by both elders and younger friends. · Nougat Rich in milk flavor, the addition of almonds or macadamia nuts adds a lot of texture and layers. It's not sticky, and the individual packaging makes it easy to share. It's a classic choice I always buy several boxes to give as gifts. · Taiwanese Specialty Teas If the recipient is a tea drinker, I would choose Alishan High Mountain Tea, Dong Ding Oolong Tea, or Oriental Beauty Tea. The packaging is exquisite and full of Taiwanese characteristics, making them more memorable than ordinary snacks. · Egg Rolls and Traditional Cookies Crispy egg rolls are always a popular item. The crispy texture combined with the rich egg flavor is easy for both adults and children to accept, and they have a long shelf life, making them suitable for taking back home to enjoy at your leisure. · Taiwanese Cultural and Creative Products In addition to food, there are also many stationery, coasters, magnets, and souvenirs incorporating Taiwanese cultural elements. The designs are nice and of good quality, making them great gifts for friends who enjoy collecting travel souvenirs. Terminal 2 also offers cultural and creative products and museum collaboration items in addition to food. Shopping Experience My favorite part of Terminal 2's souvenir section is that the brands are concentrated there, so I don't have to carry heavy bags around. Each shop's merchandise is neatly arranged, and some brands offer samples, allowing you to compare different flavors before purchasing to decide what suits you best. If it's your first time buying souvenirs, I usually choose a mixed gift box. This allows you to sample various Taiwanese delicacies at once, making it a generous gift and introducing the recipient to more Taiwanese cuisine. The shop staff are also very professional, reminding you of storage methods, expiration dates, and suitable packaging for air travel, making shopping more reassuring. Shopping Tips · It's recommended to allow at least 30 minutes to browse the souvenir section to avoid missing out on items you like due to time constraints. · For popular brands, buy them as soon as you see them to avoid them being out of stock later. · Prioritize individually packaged items for easy sharing and less risk of damage during travel. · If you're giving a gift, choose gift box packaging; it's not only aesthetically pleasing but also easier to carry. · Pay attention to expiration dates. If it's a long flight or you're giving the gift after returning home, prioritize items with a longer shelf life. For me, Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 2 is not just the starting point of my journey, but also the place where I perfectly conclude my travels. Every time I board a plane carrying a bag full of Taiwanese souvenirs, I feel that these treats are not just gifts, but also carriers of wonderful memories from my travels. When family and friends enjoy pineapple cakes, nougat, or a cup of Taiwanese high-mountain tea, they can also feel the warmth of Taiwanese hospitality and food culture through these familiar flavors. Therefore, before each trip abroad, I always set aside some time at Terminal 2 to slowly select the most representative Taiwanese specialties to bring to the world.

If you want to escape the city and visit a truly special place, Alishan is definitely the perfect spot for you. The alpine railway is a highly popular attraction in Chiayi County, Taiwan. The entire experience is filled with a nostalgic vibe as you travel through primeval forests and mountain peaks, taking in absolutely breathtaking scenery. It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime, awe-inspiring journey. Recommended Itinerary for the Alishan Forest Railway: 1. Hop on the train at Chiayi Railway Station. Along the way, you'll pass through several beautiful transfer stations like Fenqihu, where you can take some time off to explore the nostalgic old street and try their famous local bento boxes. 2. You'll finally arrive at the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, with the entire journey taking about 5 hours. You can choose to stay overnight in the mountains. In the early hours of the morning, take the small train up to the Zhushan Viewing Platform to catch the sunrise, or spend the night stargazing. The starry sky is incredibly spectacular, and the early morning sunrise is so breathtaking that you can't help but marvel at the wonders of nature. 3. While exploring the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, don't miss out on the Sister Ponds, the Sacred Trees, and the forest trails. You'll also find plenty of tea houses and snack stalls along the way. Must-Do Activities & Photo Spots: · Riding the Alishan Forest Railway through the woods · Watching the sunrise at the Zhushan Viewing Platform · Gazing at the starry night sky over Alishan · Snapping gorgeous photos at the Sister Ponds, Sacred Trees, and giant trees inside the forest park · Enjoying the nostalgic railway bento at Fenqihu Old Street Travel Tips: 1. It is highly recommended to book your train tickets in advance via trip.com, as popular times (like holidays or sunrise schedules) are often fully booked. 2. The temperature difference on the mountain is huge. Be sure to bring a jacket, as it gets especially freezing in the mornings and evenings. 3. The Zhushan Line sunrise train requires an early start, so make sure to get to bed early the night before. 4. The mountain areas can get foggy and slippery during the rainy season, so wearing a pair of hiking shoes is much safer. 5. Listen to the train conductor's introductions along the way to learn more about the railway's history! Things to Note: · Alpine weather changes rapidly, so pack extra layers or rain gear just in case. · The ride is quite long, so prepare some motion sickness pills if you're prone to getting carsick. · It's recommended to set aside a full day or an overnight stay to fully enjoy the mountain experience without rushing. A trip on the Alishan Forest Railway will leave you with unforgettable memories, whether you're watching the sunrise or counting the stars. If you haven't experienced it yet, you definitely need to plan a trip this time.

The evening is the time to visit Huangxing Road Pedestrian Street as the lighted store fronts are a dazzling display. Such pedestrian streets are popular with tourists and common in most cities, I have visited many in China, and think this is one of the best. There is a certain charm about it, and each time I walk along it, I notice something I did not notice before. The street is pulsating with music, vibrant, and of course commercialised but still impressive. Nighttime is more interesting than a daytime visit. The southern exit of the pedestrian street is at Namenkou metro station, from here you can walk north. Near the metro station there are side streets with small fruit and food stalls, whereas once you get into the pedestrian street you will be surrounded by larger stores, many of which have eye-catching facades. By the time you have walked up to Wuyi Square metro station, you will be in the thick of the high end designer stores. Taiping old street is also a must for diversion from the Main Street. You must try the stinky tofu which is a local delicacy. I was sucked in by the chocolate ‘museum’. As I walked the corridors with life sized chocolate statues and information board, I knew I would end up in a chocolate shop, which I did, though if you can withstand the hard sell, it is worth a visit to see the displays. Huogongdian, also known as Qianyuan Palace, includes several structures, such as the Fire God Temple, Wealth God Temple, Mitra Pavilion, and Puci Pavilion. It is a massive structure of red and gold. It is interesting to see traditional features alongside people watching world cup football matches on a big screen. Wén Hé Yǒu Restaurant is amulti-floor dining experience designed like an old Changsha street, complete with a small gondola ride, offering both local cuisine and cultural immersion. You will not get bored walking along this street. I stayed in the S-Hotel 5 min walk south of Namenkou metro station, meaning I ended up in this area after every day out. It was good to stay in a location that was convenient, in walking distance of this area, but also away from this busy area and quiet. When walking back to my hotel I would stop at a sole street vendor who would make me some fried rice. HOW TO GET THERE: Namenkou metro to start at southern end and walk up, or Wuyi/Huangxing station to start in the middle of the busy area. #Chinatrip #hunan #changsha #shopping #brightlights #evening #food

If you're looking for somewhere to escape Taiwan's summer heat, Alishan is one of my favorite places. At around 20–25°C, the cool mountain air, peaceful forests, and scenic railway make it feel like a completely different world. Here's how I spent 30 hours exploring Chiayi and Alishan. From wandering through the nostalgic streets of Fenqihu to watching the sunset at Eryanping Trail, walking past tea plantations, and spending the next morning surrounded by Alishan's ancient forests. Sometimes a weekend is all it takes to fall in love with a place. 📍Save this itinerary for your next trip. #Alishan #Chiayi #TaiwanTravel #TravelPlacesToExploree

Taiwan is increasingly popping up on the lists of travelers looking for a unique Asian experience: here, modern skyscrapers, ancient temples, mountain trails, and famous night markets seamlessly coexist. Now, getting to the island is easier than ever — starting July 7, 2026, Russian citizens can apply for an e-Visa online. The following conditions apply for the trip: Single-entry e-Visa 📅 Stay in Taiwan — up to 30 days 💻 Fully online application process 💰 Cost — around 3,900 ₽ (including online payment fees) The new format is currently launching as a pilot program running until July 2027. If successful, this option may be extended. Why should you add Taiwan to your itinerary? 🏙 Taipei — a city where Taipei 101, ancient temples, and bustling night markets are all close by ⛰ Alishan — a stunning destination featuring mountain landscapes, lush forests, and sunrises above the clouds 🌊 Hualien — the perfect spot for nature lovers and ocean views 🍜 Local cuisine — from street food markets to the famous Taiwanese bubble tea Taiwan perfectly combines modern Asia, breathtaking nature, and rich culture — and now, getting there is easier than ever.

#overratedspots Hinoki Village (檜意森活村) is one of Chiayi's most popular attractions, and it's easy to see why. The beautifully preserved Japanese-style wooden buildings, tree-lined paths, and charming cafés make it a great place for photos. But if you're expecting lots of things to do, you might be a little disappointed. The village isn't very large, and most visitors can explore it in 1–2 hours. Many of the buildings have been turned into souvenir shops, cafés, and small exhibitions, so the experience is more about enjoying the atmosphere than discovering major attractions. 📍 Hinoki Village (檜意森活村) No. 1, Linsen East Rd, East District, Chiayi City, Taiwan Is it overrated? 🤔 A little—but it depends on your travel style. ✅ Worth visiting if you: Love Japanese architecture and heritage. Enjoy taking aesthetic photos. Want a relaxing stop before or after Alishan. ❌ You may skip it if: You're short on time. You're looking for interactive activities or a full-day attraction. ⭐ My verdict: 7.5/10 It's undeniably photogenic, but I recommend setting aside just a couple of hours rather than planning your whole day around it. #OverratedSpots #HinokiVillage #Chiayi #Taiwan #TravelTaiwan #JapaneseArchitecture #TripMoments

🌲 SHOULD YOU VISIT ALISHAN AS A DAY TRIP? Alishan can be visited in one day—but “possible” does not always mean enjoyable. The better choice depends on how much time you have, where you start, whether sunrise matters and how much transport pressure your group can handle. ⏳ DAY TRIP — POSSIBLE BUT SELECTIVE A day trip works best when Chiayi is your practical gateway and you are willing to focus only on the core forest area. Prioritise: · one operating local railway section · one connected forest route · giant-tree and red-cypress scenery · enough buffer for the return journey You will probably give up relaxed sunrise planning, evening mountain atmosphere, meaningful weather backup and combining Fenqihu or tea country with a full forest visit. 🌅 1 NIGHT — BEST DEFAULT FOR MOST FIRST-TIMERS One night creates the strongest balance between transport, forest time and flexibility. On the first day, travel up from Chiayi, store your luggage, explore selected trails and enjoy the quieter late-afternoon atmosphere. The next morning, attempt sunrise only when the forecast, railway operation and your group’s energy align. You can then complete the remaining forest route without forcing everything into one afternoon. One night turns Alishan from a transport exercise into a mountain stay. 📷 2 NIGHTS — BEST FOR DEPTH AND FLEXIBILITY Two nights make more sense for: · photographers waiting for changing light or mist · slower families and elderly travellers · railway enthusiasts · travellers adding Fenqihu, Shizhuo or Leye · anyone wanting stronger weather backup Use the extra night to slow down—not to create another overloaded checklist. 🗺️ ALISHAN IS NOT ONE SMALL PLACE “Alishan” can refer to a much wider mountain region. The core National Forest Recreation Area is where most first-timers find the giant-tree trails, local railway branches, visitor facilities and easier sunrise access. Fenqihu is a separate railway settlement with old-street atmosphere and short forest walks. Shizhuo and Leye are separate tea-country areas better suited to homestays, mountain scenery and road-based itineraries. Never book accommodation using the word “Alishan” alone. Check the exact map location and onward transport first. 🚆 START WITH THE CORRECT CHIAYI STATION Chiayi Railway Station is used for conventional rail arrivals, the Alishan Forest Railway and Alishan-bound buses departing from that station. Chiayi HSR Station is a separate high-speed-rail station outside central Chiayi, with its own onward bus services. Before travelling, confirm: · the exact boarding point · current operating information · reservation requirements · whether the service goes directly to the core forest area · whether it passes through Fenqihu · current weather or maintenance notices Do not build the entire trip around an unconfirmed forest-railway seat. 🚂 RAILWAY, BUS OR CAR? Choose the forest railway when the heritage journey is part of the experience. Choose the bus for more practical point-to-point travel. Choose a private car or driver when luggage flexibility, tea-country stops or mixed-age travellers matter more. Rail one way and road the other can work—but only after both connections and luggage arrangements are confirmed. 🌄 SUNRISE IS A BONUS, NOT A GUARANTEE An early wake-up does not guarantee a clear sunrise or sea of clouds. Cloud, fog, rain and current mountain conditions all affect visibility. Stay in or very near the core forest area, check the forecast, confirm the Zhushan service and keep a comfortable alternative plan. Skip sunrise when children or elderly travellers need recovery, the forecast is poor or the early start would reduce enjoyment of the rest of the day. 🏨 CHOOSE YOUR BASE BY PURPOSE Core Alishan area: Best for forest trails, sunrise access and lower daily transfer burden. Fenqihu: Best for railway character and a deliberate village stopover—not effortless core-area sunrise access. Shizhuo or Leye: Best for tea scenery and quieter mountain stays, with onward transport confirmed. Chiayi City: Best for wider accommodation choice, transport connections and day-trip travellers—but without the overnight mountain atmosphere. 🧥 PACK FOR THE MOUNTAIN The core forest area sits above 2,000 metres and can feel much cooler, wetter and foggier than Chiayi. Bring: · warm layers · light rain protection · shoes with reliable grip · a small day bag · water and simple snacks · a power bank · motion-discomfort medication when needed The best Alishan route is not the one with the most viewpoints. It is the one your group can complete comfortably. 💡 FINAL DECISION Day trip: Best when time is limited and you accept a selective route. 1 night: Best balance for most first-timers. 2 nights: Best for slower travel, photography, railway interest, tea-country additions and weather flexibility. Save this before booking your train, hotel and mountain transport. #Alishan #ChiayiTravel #ForestRailway #MountainTravel #TravelCheatSheet

This is one of the most popular routes for Thai travelers! It's perfect for those who want to experience everything in a single trip—from the bustling metropolis, chic cafes, and historic mountain towns to lively night markets, serene lakes, and breathtaking sunrises over a sea of clouds. Plus, it's super easy to get around via regular trains, high-speed rail, and buses. Day 1 : Taipei ✈️ Arrive in Taipei → Head into the city → Check in to hotel → Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall → Yongkang Street → Taipei 101 → Enjoy the evening city views at Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain) → Have dinner and stroll around Raohe Night Market 🏨 Stay: Taipei Main Station / Ximending area Day 2 : Taipei 🏙️ Visit Longshan Temple → Walk around Bopiliao Historic Block → Ximending → Dihua Street → Dadaocheng → In the evening, hit up Shilin Night Market or head back for more shopping in Ximending → Dinner in Ximending 🏨 Stay: Taipei Main Station / Ximending area Day 3 : Taipei → Jiufen → Taichung 🚄 Head out to Jiufen → Explore Jiufen Old Street → Try local street food → Enjoy the stunning mountain and ocean views → Stop by A-Mei Tea House → If time permits, visit Shifen Old Street and release sky lanterns → Head back to Taipei → Catch the high-speed rail to Taichung → Spend the evening at Fengjia Night Market 🏨 Stay: Taichung Station / Fengjia Night Market area Day 4 : Taichung → Alishan 🌲 Morning visit to Rainbow Village → National Taichung Theater → Miyahara → Grab lunch in the city → Continue the journey to Alishan → Check in → Stroll around the Alishan National Scenic Area → Take in the sunset and the peaceful evening vibes of the pine forest 🏨 Stay: Alishan National Scenic Area Day 5 : Alishan 🌄 Wake up before dawn → Take the mountain railway to Zhushan Sunrise Observation Deck → Watch the glorious sunrise over the sea of clouds → Head back for breakfast → Hike the Giant Trees Trail → Sacred Tree → Sisters Ponds → Shouzhen Temple → Spend the afternoon exploring more of the pine forest and scenic viewpoints → Dinner around the Alishan area 🏨 Stay: Alishan National Scenic Area Day 6 : Alishan → Taipei → Thailand ✈️ Wrap up any final sightseeing in Alishan in the morning → Travel down to Chiayi → Take the high-speed rail back to Taipei → If you have spare time, grab some souvenirs or a quick meal near Taipei Main Station → Head to the airport → Fly back to Thailand ✨ Who is this for? Nature lovers • Cafe hoppers • Photography enthusiasts • Night market fans • Old town explorers • Mountain seekers • First-time visitors to Taiwan 🌸 Best times to visit Mar–Apr: Cool, breezy weather with a chance to catch cherry blossoms in Alishan. Oct–Dec: Great weather with clear skies, perfect for walking and enjoying nature. Winter: Ideal for those who love experiencing the chilly mountain air. 📌 Route Highlights Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall → Taipei 101 → Ximending → Jiufen Old Street → Shifen → Fengjia Night Market → Taichung → Alishan → Zhushan Sunrise → Giant Trees Trail → Sisters Ponds

A stress-free escape from the city begins at the Alishan Gou Hotel. Since we were hiking the Mianyue Line with our elders this time, we decided to check into the Alishan Gou Hotel the night before. This way, we didn't have to rush out the door before dawn or worry about a long, exhausting drive draining our energy for the next day. It made the entire trip so much more relaxing. The most breathtaking part was catching a stunning sunset shortly after we checked in 🌇 The colors of the sky shifted every few minutes, fading from a deep blue to a warm, glowing orange until the sun finally dipped below the horizon. We sat there completely mesmerized for the longest time, just staring out and letting all our worries fade away 🥹 We also added the dinner and breakfast packages to our stay. Once we arrived at the hotel, we didn't have to stress about finding a place to eat. We enjoyed a fulfilling meal and got a great night's rest. The next morning, we woke up to a piping hot breakfast, fueling up perfectly before heading out to the Mianyue Line. It was incredibly convenient and saved us so much time. When traveling with older family members, I truly believe the most important thing isn't packing the itinerary to the brim, but rather leaving some breathing room so everyone can genuinely enjoy the trip comfortably. Arriving a day early not only cut down on travel fatigue but also gave us a peaceful night to slow down and embrace the mountain wilderness. Right outside our window was the serene mountain landscape of Alishan, and the air was filled with the fresh, crisp scent of the forest. It felt as though the mountain mist gently washed away all our exhaustion. Waking up refreshed and ready to take on the breathtaking views of the Mianyue Line the following day—I highly recommend this itinerary for anyone traveling with family and elders. 💚 Accommodation Gou Hotel

Recharge before hiking in Alishan National Park at 森2488m X 馬羊家茶, located in the Alishan Bus Station building. If you're not a fan of convenience store coffee like us, you can go up to the second floor where there's a cute cafe with beautiful views where you can have a drink before entering the park or rest after your hike. It's the only cafe in the park area, as most inside are Chinese tea shops. The coffee is good, the pastries are delicious, but the prices might be a bit high due to the altitude. 🤣🤣🤣 #alishan #森2488mX馬羊家茶

The trip we just took was totally beyond expectations. Let me tell you, this trip started with us being a complete hot mess right from the morning. We went to wait for the bus to get here, but it turned out to be completely full. We had to wait for the next bus, and all I could think of in my head was "WTF, WTF". Yep, we had to sit and wait right in the scorching sun. If you don't want to end up like us, go buy your tickets at Family Mart—they let people with reservations board first. On the bus ride, the road up the mountain is just a single lane. The driver was skilled but definitely drove fast. So I just knocked myself out and slept the whole way. Inside the forest, there's an entrance fee of 150 NTD per person. But if you're staying at a hotel in there, it's a different rate. In the morning, if you haven't had anything to fill your stomach yet, make sure to eat before hiking. There are tons of shops to choose from here, including a 7-Eleven. Before we start our hike, we have to catch a train. There are 3 lines to choose from, depending on where you want to go. Each route and trail is completely different. But for the one we picked, there aren't really any uphill climbs, mostly just downhill. That makes this route perfect for beginners or anyone who isn't really a fan of working out— you can walk it super easily and comfortably. As for the weather, it's amazing, so cool and breezy. The trees are absolutely massive! Great energy and such fresh air. I totally get why so many people actually come here now. If you want to catch the sunrise, I highly recommend staying overnight there. That way, you can wake up at 4 AM and take the train up to see it. Next time, I'll probably drop a review on how to book tickets or give you guys a travel guide to read! forest

Right at check-in, we were met with the thoughtful hospitality of Blues and Anna at the front desk. A special thanks to Anna for the tea! Despite being nestled in the mountains, the hotel exudes an incredible sense of warmth. We had left a note mentioning it was our wedding anniversary, but we never expected Blues to go above and beyond by arranging beautiful anniversary decorations in our room. The moment we stepped inside, the romantic vibe was off the charts ❤️. What touched me the most was the handwritten card—it felt so personal and heartfelt. While the hotel's dinner has transitioned to a full buffet and the selection isn't massive, it completely delivers on quality. You'll find everything you could want: great main courses, sashimi, seafood, and side dishes. The sauces are unique and varied, and they even serve a few local Chiayi snacks. The ingredients and overall quality of the food are well above average. Complimentary alcoholic beverages are a nice touch! While the white wine pairs perfectly with the seafood, I highly recommend the sparkling red wine for light drinkers—it’s low in alcohol, slightly sweet, and very approachable. The red wine isn't overly heavy, making it a great table wine for those who enjoy a drink with their meal. The dessert section was generously varied, and I was absolutely thrilled to find my favorite, Madeleines 😊. Stepping out the front doors at night, the crisp air instantly put me at ease. Walking through the thick mist felt intoxicatingly surreal—it was so beautiful and dreamy! The room itself is full of clever, thoughtful details: a Formosan blue magpie floor lamp, firefly-patterned floor mats, a reading rack on the bathtub tray, and my husband’s absolute favorite, a Harman Kardon Bluetooth speaker with phenomenal sound quality! The orchids placed throughout the hotel were incredibly soothing, too. My favorite pastime was lounging on the balcony, soaking in the mountain views as the weather shifted from cloudy to sunny and sometimes a light drizzle, all while reading a book provided by the hotel. One morning, I even watched the sunrise right from my balcony! Over our 3-day, 2-night stay, I caught the sunrise, strolled through the mist, and experienced the rapid mountain weather changes from the rooftop. The hot cocoa served up there was incredibly comforting and not too sweet. I even challenged myself to rock a swimsuit for some fabulous infinity pool photos at 50! Sadly, an injured hand kept me from the gym, but it looked compact and well-equipped. Breakfast was fantastic, offering a wide and diverse selection of both Western and Asian options. Thank you, Hotel Indigo Alishan, for a beautiful vacation. I can't wait to visit again 😊

Meishan Sky Ladder literally gives you the vibe of "a bridge just popping out of nowhere in the mountains" 😆 The suspension bridge stretches across the valley, and once you step on it, you're immediately surrounded by epic mountain views and a misty, cloud-kissed atmosphere ✨ 🌉 The bridge itself is actually quite long. When you reach the middle, it sways a bit, which will definitely give anyone afraid of heights a thrill 🤣☁️ On a clear day, it's absolutely stunning. The mountain views, bamboo forests, and the sea of clouds all come together, making it feel just like a fairyland 😳 The fresh air along the trail is super refreshing, too 🌿 Strolling along with the mountain breeze really makes you slow down your pace. 📸 A lot of people come here specifically to take pictures of the suspension bridge. Especially when the mist rolls in, it looks incredibly cinematic ✨ ✔ The suspension bridge views are absolutely breathtaking 🌉 ✔ The mountain views + the sea of clouds are super therapeutic ☁️ ✔ The fresh air feels amazing 🌿 ✔ Perfect for taking a slow, relaxing stroll 📸 — Meishan Sky Ladder isn't exactly a high-thrill attraction, but it definitely makes you want to stop and just gaze at the mountains all day long 😌

Nature lovers, don't miss this! Hiking in Alishan National Forest isn't as difficult as you might think, thanks to well-maintained plank trails throughout the course. It's easy to walk, visually appealing, and offers stunning photo opportunities. 🥾 Must-see hiking spots: 1. Giant Tree Plank Trail: A popular trail that takes you to see over 36 giant cypress trees, some over 2,000 years old! The atmosphere is like stepping into a fairytale world. 2. Sister Ponds: Calm emerald pools in the middle of the forest. Walk through the pine forest to find the signature wooden pavilion in the middle of the water. 3. Shuishan Giant Tree Trail: A flat trail along an old, abandoned railway track, leading to the largest tree in the park. This spot is very quiet and peaceful with few people. 🎟️ Summary of Ticket Prices (Main Expenses) 1. Park Entrance Fee: 300 NTD (Foreigners) Tip: Show your public bus ticket (Route 7322/7329) when purchasing to get a discount, reducing the price to 150 NTD. 2. Forest Railway Tickets: Zhushan Line (Sunrise Viewing): 150 NTD (Round Trip) Sacred Tree / Chaoping Line (To the Trekking Start Point): 100 NTD per trip 🕒 Checking Train Schedules (Alishan Forest Railway) The park has 3 main train lines: 1. Zhushan Line (Early Morning): Runs only once a day to watch the sunrise (Schedule changes daily) 1. Train Line (Check at the station 1 day in advance; usually departs between 4:00 AM and 5:30 AM) 2. Sacred Tree Line: Runs from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (departs every 30 minutes) 3. Chaoping Line: Runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (departs every 30 minutes) *Recommendation: Take the train to Chaoping station, then walk down the forest trail to Sacred Tree station, and then take the train back to the main station. This will be the least tiring option. 📝 Summary of Hiking Preparation Shoes: Wear sturdy sneakers or trail shoes with good grip, as some parts of the wooden pavement may be damp and slippery. Clothing: Layer your clothes, as it can get hot during the hike, but the air will cool down immediately upon resting. Time: It's best to start hiking in the morning or late morning, as the fog gets thick and it gets dark early after 3 PM. For hiking enthusiasts, this is a must-do! The weather is so good you won't want to leave! 🌲🧡 #GetDiscountsWithoutRelyingOnLuck #alishan #Alishan #alishanforest #taiwan

Early that morning, we set out from Taichung. Our trusty driver was already waiting at the pickup spot. When he saw us, he smiled and waved, saying, "I'm taking you up the mountain to see the sea of clouds today!" That single sentence instantly filled us with excitement for our Alishan day trip. To be honest, almost every time I visit Taiwan, I make sure to stop by Taichung. The city doesn't have the hustle and bustle of Taipei or the noise of popular tourist traps. Instead, it offers a perfectly balanced slice of everyday life. But most importantly, my best friend, Pinhui, lives here. On our first night in Taichung, Pinhui and her husband, De, threw us a warm welcome dinner. They took us to a low-key little Taiwanese restaurant—it wasn't big, but it was packed with regulars. Even before we sat down, the air was already thick with the mouth-watering aromas of sizzling stir-fries and savory soy sauce. Knowing the menu like the back of her hand, she ordered a table full of signature dishes: plump and juicy goose, highly aromatic three-cup chicken, and plate after plate of fresh seafood. The three-cup chicken was the real star—the scent of Thai basil mingling with sesame oil and savory sauce was irresistible. When it arrived at the table piping hot, we all practically dove in with our chopsticks at the exact same time. The sheer joy of catching up with good friends and digging into great food makes you realize that the true meaning of travel isn't just about the sights you see—it's about the people you share a meal with. The next day, we officially kicked off our Alishan adventure. Joining us on this leg was Avy, someone we’d crossed paths with on a previous trip to Mount Fuji in Japan. I guess that's the beauty of life—you never know if someone you bumped into halfway across the world might just show up in another country, on an entirely new journey. As we made our way from the lowlands up into the mountains, the scenery outside the window slowly transformed. High-rises faded away, replaced by rolling tea plantations, mountain mist, and winding roads. Our driver played classic Taiwanese oldies the whole way up, occasionally chiming in to share little anecdotes about the mountains. The entire ride felt as laid-back and easygoing as a road trip with old friends. When we arrived at Alishan, the mountain air was thick with the scent of damp, earthy wood. Taking a deep breath felt like a total cleanse for the soul. We hopped onto the iconic forest railway, the vintage carriages chugging slowly through the dense woods. The rhythmic rocking of the old train gave us the surreal feeling of traveling back in time. Sunlight filtered down through the towering fir trees, and occasionally, we'd catch glimpses of mist drifting through the forest. It was as beautiful as a scene straight out of a movie. By noon, we made a beeline for the highly anticipated railway bento. There was a massive line out the door of the bento shop. Almost every tourist in Alishan had one in hand—it was so bustling, it felt like some sort of obligatory tourist ritual. Popping open the lid, the aroma of the braised pork rib and side dishes definitely gave off that nostalgic Taiwan Railway vibe. But to be brutally honest, once I finished it, my verdict was: "Hmm... not quite as mind-blowing as I thought it would be." But then I thought about it—maybe people aren't just eating it for the taste. It’s more about the quintessential "when in Alishan, you just gotta try it" travel experience. After all, there's that universal golden rule of traveling: "We're already here, might as well!" So, no matter how long the line is, everyone is more than happy to grab a bento, snap some photos, and check in on social media. It's almost as if you haven't truly been to Alishan if you skip this meal. However, the real surprise for me was the donuts that were ranked as a "must-eat" in this mountain town. We originally just bought them on a whim as we were walking by. But man, that first bite—slightly crispy on the outside, incredibly fluffy and soft on the inside. The subtle sweetness of the powdered sugar was spot on, and it had that fresh, warm bakery aroma. That kind of simple, pure deliciousness actually left a way deeper impression on me than the railway bento did. Later, we headed over to Longyin Temple and checked out the romantically named Eternity Suspension Bridges (Tianchang Dijiu Bridges). During the trip, I couldn't help but ask the group, "What do you guys think is the biggest difference between Japan and Taiwan?" My cousin Xue, who’s a bit of a neat freak, instantly furrowed her brows and said, "Japan is definitely way cleaner. Night markets and mountain towns in Taiwan often have this certain smell, kind of like a sewer." We all cracked up at that. She wasn't wrong, though. In some of the older districts in Taiwan, you do occasionally catch a whiff of dampness mixed with the drainage system. It's likely because these cities developed earlier, so some of the sewage infrastructure is a bit outdated. But the funny thing is, these little quirks don't make you dislike Taiwan at all. Because the true charm of Taiwan has never been about spotlessly clean streets—it's all about that deep, genuine warmth and hospitality (Renqingwei). You remember the auntie at the breakfast spot giving you an extra scallion pancake on the house; you remember the driver looking out for you the whole ride; you remember your friends constantly piling food onto your plate so you wouldn't go hungry; and you remember grabbing a random cup of milk tea at a convenience store late at night and finding out it’s ridiculously good. And true to form, we didn't pack our itinerary too tightly for this trip. No rushing between attractions, no pressure to hit all the trendy photo spots. The main vibe was just "eating, drinking, and absolute milk tea freedom." After heading back to Taichung that night, we met up for dinner once again. This time, we hit up Din Tai Fung near the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store. Not too long ago, a gas explosion at the mall had forced the entire department store to close for quite some time. We happened to catch it right after its grand reopening this year, and it was so bustling—like the city had completely regained its vitality. When the steaming hot xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) hit the table, the vapor instantly fogged up my glasses. Suddenly, this really magical feeling washed over me— What makes traveling so wildly addictive isn't just the places you go. It's the people you laugh with, eat with, and just sit and talk with. They’re the ones who turn a completely ordinary moment into something that, even years down the line, will still shine brightly in your memory.

The moment you step into the Sacred Tree Area, the entire forest is engulfed in thick fog. Visibility drops, and the silence seems to swallow every sound. The only thing left is the thud of your footsteps on the wooden boardwalk, stepping down layer by layer, as if descending into a completely different world. It’s only when you look up that you realize how unbelievably massive these trees are. It's not just about their height; it's the kind of towering scale that makes you feel incredibly insignificant standing beneath them. Hundreds, even thousands of years of time, silently growing right in front of your eyes. You don't need any plaques or guides, because you can genuinely feel it. It’s not the flashy grandeur of a typical tourist attraction; it’s a deeply slow, grounded, and steady presence. The fog blurs your sense of distance, elevating these ancient trees into something almost symbolic. You lose track of how long you've been walking, but you naturally start to slow your pace. It’s almost as if the forest itself has recalibrated your inner rhythm. When you finally leave, it never really feels like you've "seen it all," instead, it feels more like—you were simply allowed a fleeting moment inside. ⸻

Alishan Sunrise Ultimate Survival Guide! A 2-Day, 1-Night Forest Healing Getaway in Chiayi Heading to Chiayi isn't just about the famous turkey rice—Alishan is actually a top-tier therapeutic escape for Hong Kongers! Combining the Alishan sunrise and the sea of clouds with the stunningly beautiful alpine forest railway, just one trip will leave you completely satisfied. We've curated the ultimate 2-day, 1-night itinerary starting from Chiayi, ensuring you eat well, stay comfortably, and capture the most chill morning wonders above the clouds. Make sure to bookmark this! 🌲 Itinerary Highlights: · Depart from downtown Chiayi City and check into a mountain hotel in Alishan the night before. · Ride the railway through the forest to fully immerse yourself in nature. · Capture all the best photos of the sunrise, sea of clouds, wooden boardwalks, and ancient trees in one go. · Ultra-practical tips: Start early, warm clothes are a must, and book online to avoid massive traffic jams at the park entrance. 🗺️ Must-Visit Spots: Alishan Forest Railway Chiayi Ticket Office 📍 No. 528, Zhongshan Rd, West District, Chiayi City, Taiwan 600 Every adventure begins here! We recommend arriving at the ticket office half a day to a full day early to buy your tickets. You absolutely cannot be late when grabbing tickets for the 3:00 AM train to catch the sunrise. After checking in on-site, you'll see the classic red mountain train traversing the forest tracks (it looks straight out of a movie). The misty, rainy vibe while waiting for the train also adds a unique atmosphere. Alishan National Forest Railway 📍 Alishan Township, Chiayi County 605, Taiwan Catch the earliest little train up to the cloud peak (you might run into morning mist or a sea of clouds). Sitting by the carriage window and slowly watching the forest mist flow by will instantly reset your soul. The entire ride feels like traveling through a fairytale world! Alishan National Forest Recreation Area 📍 No. 59, Alishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan 605 | Open 24/7 all year round Ticket: 41.0 Must-walk treasure-level trails: Starting from Zhaoping Station, it takes less than 5 minutes to reach the chillest spots like the Sister Ponds and the Tashan Trail. Seek tranquility, explore ancient trees, admire flowers and clouds, and easily snap Insta-worthy photos! Remember to gear up with warm clothes in autumn and winter; it gets deceptively cold up on the mountain in the early morning. Alishan Xiding Sea of Clouds 📍 Alishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan After the sunrise, we highly recommend a light hike. Along the way, you can witness the spectacular, layered sea of clouds paired with Alishan's unique giant sacred tree forests. You won't be able to resist stopping every few steps to snap photos. 🏨 Top Accommodation Pick — Alishan Gou Hotel 📍 No. 1, Xianglin Village An exclusive location advantage! The hotel is right next to Zhaoping Station, so you won't have to worry about being late for the early morning sunrise train. The rooms are clean, with new and practical facilities. Breakfast is simple but filling. The service is attentive, and there are scheduled shuttle buses so you don't have to drag your luggage far. Surrounded by the alpine forest, the quiet nights are perfect for sleeping early and waking up fresh to catch the first rays of dawn. 🎒 Itinerary Tips & Time-Savers · You must book park entry online in advance, as well as your hotel and the alpine train tickets. · The sunrise terraces are freezing in autumn and winter! Bring a heavy coat, a thermos, and heat packs. · The mountain area gets pitch black at night—make sure your phone and headlamps are fully charged. · The whole trip takes about 5 hours of walking. Wear proper hiking shoes and be mentally prepared for a good leg workout. · Ask the hotel staff for the best spot recommendations to watch the sunrise and sunset. 🍜 Chiayi Food Recommendations (Grab a bite if you have time) · Chiayi Turkey Rice, Fish Head Casserole, and downtown Tofu Pudding (Douhua). · You can grab tea eggs and hot soy milk at the Alishan train station for breakfast. 🚗 Transportation Guide · There are shuttle buses directly from the downtown HSR station to the forest railway station. · If you're driving, you can park at the main entrance of the park and use the hotel shuttle bus for maximum convenience. · For the return trip, leave plenty of time to wait for shuttles and public transport so you don't miss your ride.