Designated a national scenic area since 2001, Alishan is a constantly changing landscape, covered in cherry blossom during spring and blanketed with orange montbretia in summer. Visitors flock there for the hiking trails and views, though some cheat and take the pre-dawn train to the peak for a view of the sunrise without too much effort. The small villages are seats of ancient indigenous history and burst with tradition and culture, while the Japanese occupation is in evidence with the logging railway running through the area.
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Originally built by the Japanese to transport cypress wood from the area, the railway was updated in the 1970s after the decline of the logging industry and the onset of tourism. Travelers explore the gorgeous landscape in colonial rail-travel style.
This small, indigenous town comprises only a small number of low, traditionally-built wooden houses but it is responsible for production of local produce and it is surrounded by mysterious rock formations and charming mountains streams.
Spanning a spine of peaks, Alishan is riddled with mountain trails of varying difficulty, attracting walkers of all abilities. Visitors pack picnics and set out for a pleasant day enjoying scenic delights. Some stay overnight to avoid the day-tripper crowds.
The small and unassuming village of Chukou in Alishan draws visitors with its eye-catching temple. A colorful and highly-decorated feat of traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture, visitors come to explore and marvel at the intricately-fashioned dragons lining the roofs.
One of the most famous and popular scenic spots in Taiwan, the view from the peak at dawn has long been acclaimed as an unmissable experience. The sun rising behind Yushan - the highest mountain in Taiwan - above the sea of clouds, is unforgettable.
Within the cool, shady trees, are the two sisters - a pair of forest pools. At the center of the larger of the two sits a picturesque pavilion. A great spot for a photo, this area also marks the start of the mountain trail to the top of Mount Tashan.
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Taking you from the 21st-century metropolis of Taipei, all the way across this fascinating island to discover untouched village life and majestic national parks, this 12-day itinerary is packed full of exciting activities that will leave you with a lasting memory of charming Taiwan.
This is widely acknowledged as the best hotel available in the Alishan forest recreation area. Surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty, including hillsides covered in cherry blossom and neat green tea fields, the hotel provides the perfect base from which to explore and marvel. What’s more, it is located just a short stroll from the Alishan railway, for easy access to all the sights and places of interest in the park. The two elegant towers comprise the Historic House and the Modern House and the guest rooms are chic and sumptuously decorated with comfortable and convenient amenities across the board. Alishan House boasts an on-site restaurant famed for its authentic and delicious Chinese food, while the charming coffee shop is the ideal spot for a little pick-me-up at breakfast time. The outdoor star terrace is aptly named; perhaps the highlight of the property, it affords stunning views of the cloud sea, especially at sunset.
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