My Ultimate Alishan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Alishan Forest in 2025

The Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, or as I usually just call it, Alishan Forest, was honestly one of my favorite places in all of Taiwan.

Alishan Forest actually has a pretty interesting history. Back in the day, it was mainly used for timber logging, especially for its giant cypress trees. Over time, though, it was reforested and transformed into what it is today: a beautiful mountain forest area full of hiking trails, sunrise viewpoints, and those famous cute little old trains.

When I first went to Alishan, I remember struggling so much to find clear information. I felt like there were bits and pieces everywhere but no decent travel guide in one place. That’s exactly why I’m putting this Alishan travel guide together, to share my own experience and cover pretty much everything you need to know, from how to get there and what to expect to the best things to do and where to stay in Alishan.

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My Ultimate Alishan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Alishan Forest in 2025

Alishan Travel Guide – My Experience

Honestly, when I was planning my trip to Alishan and the Alishan National Forest, I found it pretty confusing. No one really explains what it actually is. Maybe that was just my terrible researching skills, but I kept wondering: do I stay overnight there? Is it a proper multi-day hike? What exactly do you do there? I just couldn’t figure it out.

So in the end, I basically showed up with no big plan and just winged it. And honestly, that worked out perfectly. I had the best time wandering around Alishan National Forest, hiking, exploring, and just soaking up the fresh mountain air.

Most of my Taiwan itinerary was pretty city-heavy with places like Taipei and Tainan, so getting out into nature felt amazing. Also since Alishan sits up in the mountains, it was way cooler than the cities, which were absolutely roasting when I was there.

All in all, it ended up being one of my favorite activities in Taiwan. Taking the little forest train through the misty woods, hiking under giant cedar trees, it was honestly magical. I’d definitely recommend adding Alishan to your itinerary if you want to escape the cities for a bit and enjoy some proper nature time.

What even is the Alishan Forest? Basic Information

The Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is about a two-hour drive inland from the city of Chiayi. Back in the day, the forest was used for timber logging, especially for its giant cypress trees. Over time, it was reforested and turned into what it is today: one of Taiwan’s most famous mountain escapes, known for its sunrise views, misty forests, and those cute little trains.

Today, the Alishan National Forest is exactly what the name says, a recreational area. Think of it like a huge, super scenic park in the mountains. There are a bunch of well-maintained walking trails, a small train line inside the park (not to be confused with the Alishan Forest Railway that runs from Chiayi up to Alishan), a few restaurants, a temple, cute wooden bridges, and some resting areas.

When I say I went “hiking” in Alishan, it’s really more like going for a long, beautiful walk in a giant park. You’re surrounded by big cedar trees, misty hills, and a cool, mystical vibe.

But don’t expect a tough mountain hike. Most of the trails are easy and paved. There are some slightly more challenging options, like the sunrise trails, but even those aren’t what I’d call serious hiking.

Even though it’s not exactly a workout, I loved it. It felt super calming, and the cool mountain air was the perfect break from Taiwan’s hot and humid cities.

Most people either take the scenic Alishan Forest Railway or a bus from Chiayi. You can easily visit as a day trip (there’s a visitor center where you can grab a trail map, so getting around is basically idiot-proof), or you can stay overnight to catch the famous sunrise views in the morning before heading back.

So in short: Alishan is more of a nature getaway and a peaceful walk in the forest than a hardcore hike.

Things to do at Alishan National Forest Recreation Area

Catch the sunrise at Zhushan or Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout: The main reason most people come. Early wake-up, but the sea of clouds and mountain glow are totally worth it.
Ride the Alishan Forest Railway: The cute little red train that takes you through the misty forest. Super iconic and just fun to do.
Shuishan Giant Tree: A massive tree that’s over 2,700 years old. The walk there is super chill and really pretty. This was my first stop on my Alishan Itinerary.
Sacred Tree & Three-Generation Tree: Big, ancient trees that feel almost magical. You’ll see lots of those huge trees all over the park.
Sister Ponds: Two small ponds with a local legend. Peaceful spot to wander around.
Xianglin Sacred Tree: Yep, another giant tree.
Arch Bridge & Boat-Shaped Bridge: Cute wooden bridges next to each other. Good for a quick photo stop.
Shouzhen Temple: Colorful forest temple. Nice place to take a break and look around. There are even some food stalls around, this is where I took my lunch break.

How to Get to Alishan Taiwan

Getting to Alishan might sound a bit complicated at first, but honestly, it’s pretty straightforward once you break it down.

The easiest way is to make your way to Chiayi first, which is the closest big city to Alishan. You can take the regular train from Taipei (about 4 hours) or the High-Speed Rail (around 1.5 hours, but the station is outside the city so you’ll need a bus or taxi to get into Chiayi center).

From Chiayi, you’ve got a few options: the famous Alishan Forest Railway train (which is a highlight in itself but you’ll need some luck to get a ticket), the bus (super convenient, runs regularly, and even gives you a discount on the Alishan entrance fee), or a shared taxi/private transfer if you want to be a bit more flexible.

I actually tried almost all of these and ended up in a shared taxi after missing my bus (classic). In the end, it was a super chill ride and only slightly more expensive than the bus.

If you’re coming from somewhere else, like Sun Moon Lake, there’s a direct bus as well, but I haven’t personally done that route yet.

Best Time to Visit Alishan National Forest

I went to Alishan in April and honestly loved it. It was the perfect escape from the crazy heat in southern Taiwan (I’m talking 35°C / 95°F some days). Up in the mountains, it’s way cooler and actually feels comfortable for hiking without sweating buckets.

Spring (March to May) and fall (October to November) are generally the best times to go with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and everything is lush and green. If you’re keen on cherry blossoms, they usually bloom a bit later here (around March to early April), but it does get super crowded during that time.

Summer can get hot and humid and it’s typhoon season, so I’d avoid it if you can. Winter is pretty chilly and foggy, still beautiful, but maybe not ideal for hiking.

If you want my personal recommendation: go in early April or October. You’ll get amazing weather, smaller crowds, and still enjoy all the good views.

Where to Stay at Alishan National Forest

This was actually the main reason why I didn’t end up taking the Alishan train; there just weren’t any good places left to stay by the time I checked. Accommodation up there is super limited, books out fast, and honestly… most options aren’t that great for what you pay.

If you do plan on staying overnight (which I recommend if you want to catch the sunrise or take the train), book as early as you can and avoid weekends if possible since prices skyrocket. Also, double-check the location before you book, it’s surprisingly easy to end up miles from the actual forest entrance.

Here are a few solid options:

Alishan Hotel: The most luxury hotel in Alishan area. Big, comfortable rooms with a traditional mountain lodge vibe. Especially pretty during cherry blossom season.
Dafong Hotel: A bit more basic but still a decent choice. More affordable than Alishan Hotel and totally fine for a short stay.

Alishan Forest Cost Breakdown

Taipei → Chiayi via THSR	$30 USD
Chiayi → Alishan one-way bus	240 TWD ($7 USD)
Alishan entrance fee using bus receipt	150 TWD ($4.50 USD), Full Price 300 TWD
Alishan → Chiayi return bus	240 TWD
Overnight stay at Alishan	$100–250USD for basic lodge/hotel

Tips:

Alishan Express Train is a highlight in itself, offering scenic views, but you must book early (14 days ahead) and reserve lodging the same night.
Bus + entrance combo is budget-friendly and convenient If you arrive by bus, then you’ll get 50& off your entrance ticket!
THSR saves 2 hours vs. the local train, but costs about 1,000 TWD ($30 USD).
Lodge availability drops fast, especially cherry blossom or holiday seasons so book early!

Is Alishan Forest Worth Visiting? My Final Thoughts

I have to say, Alishan was easily one of my favorite places in all of Taiwan. Especially after spending a lot of time in busy cities, it felt so good to be up in the cool mountain air, surrounded by giant trees and amazing views.

Yes, it takes a bit of planning to get there (and maybe a few headaches with transport or train tickets), but it’s 100% worth it. Even if you’re not a big hiker, just being there and walking the easy trails and hopping on the little forest trains is such a fun change from the usual city chaos in Taiwan.

If I had the chance, I’d definitely go again, and this time, maybe even plan it around cherry blossom season. But honestly, no matter when you go, I think Alishan is one of those places that shows a totally different side of Taiwan and makes your trip so much more special.