3-Day Tour from Chiayi: Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, and Cingjing Farm | Taiwan

Alishan offers a truly captivating experience with its renowned "Five Wonders": the magnificent sunrise over peaks, a mystical sea of clouds, splendid sunsets, towering ancient forests, and the historic Alishan Forest Railway. Visitors can explore lush walking trails, breathe fresh mountain air, and immerse themselves in a serene natural environment, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility and breathtaking landscapes.

In Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, popular activities include riding the historic Alishan Forest Railway for scenic views, hiking diverse trails like the Giant Tree Trail to see ancient cypress trees, and visiting the tranquil Sister Ponds. You can also explore Zhaoping Park, home to various seasonal flowers, and visit sacred tree sites. The area provides ample opportunities for photography, nature observation, and enjoying the cool mountain climate.

Alishan is celebrated for its distinctive natural phenomena, primarily the dramatic sea of clouds that often blankets the valleys, and its stunning sunrise views from various lookout points like Zhushan. The area boasts an impressive collection of ancient cypress trees, some thousands of years old, forming a majestic forest landscape. Its diverse ecosystem also supports unique alpine flora and fauna, contributing to its designation as a significant natural heritage site.

From Chiayi, public transportation to Alishan National Scenic Area is primarily by bus. You can take a direct bus from Chiayi HSR Station or Chiayi Train Station, with the journey typically taking around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and route. For greater convenience and comfort, especially if traveling with luggage or a group, private transfer services or organized tours that include transportation are also highly recommended.

Tickets for the Alishan Forest Railway can be purchased in advance online or at major stations like Chiayi Station and Alishan Station. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for popular routes and peak seasons, as tickets can sell out quickly. For a convenient booking process, consider using platforms like KKday. Booking through KKday allows you to secure your tickets alongside other tour services, streamlining your overall travel arrangements.

Sun Moon Lake offers diverse exploration options. You can take a scenic boat tour to appreciate its tranquil waters and visit various piers. Cycling around the lake on its renowned path is another popular activity, offering stunning views. Don't miss taking the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway for panoramic vistas or exploring cultural sites like Wenwu Temple and the Thao aboriginal village of Ita Thao. These activities allow you to fully experience the lake's natural and cultural richness.

At Cingjing Farm, visitors can delight in the vast green grasslands and interact with friendly sheep, often participating in sheep feeding activities and enjoying the popular sheep shearing show. The farm's open-air 'Green Green Grassland' area offers picturesque European-style scenery, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography. You can also savor the fresh mountain air and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, providing a peaceful escape.

To witness Alishan's iconic sunrise, the ideal time is very early morning, typically before 7 AM, from designated viewpoints such as Zhushan or Xia笠山. The colder, drier months from autumn to spring (October to April) often offer clearer skies and better visibility for sunrise. For the mesmerizing sea of clouds, it's typically observed during the late afternoon or early morning hours, particularly after rain or during periods of high humidity combined with stable weather conditions.