What to expect
The Alishan National Scenic Area includes Fanlu, Zhuqi, Meishan, and Alishan. The transportation network in these four counties spreads across the entire region like the veins of a leaf. Travelers move through the area, marveling at the lush forests, spectacular sunrises, and stunning clouds. Enjoying tea at beautiful tea plantations and visiting the Tsou indigenous tribe are leisure activities not to be missed.
Alishan has been abundant in Taiwan Red Cypress and Taiwan Yellow Cypress since ancient times. After years of logging, there are now nearly 40 giant red cypress trees along the first and second phases of the Giant Tree Plank Walk. Among them, the towering "Alishan Xianglin Sacred Tree" stands at 45 meters tall with a trunk circumference of 12.3 meters and an estimated age of 2,300 years, making it an unmissable highlight for visitors to Alishan.
The mountainous area boasts rich biodiversity, featuring rare plants such as the Cyathea spinulosa, Huperzia somai, and Pleione formosana. The wildlife is equally vibrant, with species like the Formosan rock macaque, Mikado pheasant, bush warbler, Taiwan bush robin, and the Alishan salamander.
The forest train in Alishan Forest Recreation Area is beloved by visitors.
The sunrise at Alishan is magnificent and unforgettable. The Zhushan area is an ideal spot to watch the sunrise.
The Alishan area enjoys a cool climate with average temperatures around 10°C. It's worth visiting year-round, though July and August see more rainfall. From November to April, the northeast monsoon brings ideal conditions for witnessing spectacular sea of clouds and misty landscapes.
Visit indigenous tribes to learn about local customs and culture. The Tsou villages feature thatched-roof houses, with the men's club "Kuba" being particularly famous.
Short daylight hours and significant day-night temperature differences are the geological advantages of Alishan, making high-mountain oolong tea, Jinxuan tea, and tea bags highly popular. You can experience on-site/riverside tea tasting and bamboo forest tea ceremonies.
More local snacks to try, including sunrise cakes and millet mochi.