Popular Sightseeing Tours in Chiayi

For a classic Alishan free and easy trip, a two-day, one-night itinerary is recommended. On the first day, you can take a bus from Chiayi High-Speed Rail Station or train station to Alishan National Forest Recreation Area. In the afternoon, wander through the giant tree boardwalks to admire the grandeur of thousand-year-old trees, or experience the tranquility of Sister Ponds. Check into a hotel within or near the park in the evening. On the second day, take the forest railway to Zhushan Sunrise Observation Deck to welcome the sunrise, feel the moving sight of clouds and mist interweaving, and then visit Zhaoping Park before heading to Fenqihu Old Street to savor local specialty bento boxes and pastries.

Chiayi City boasts many cultural and historical sites. We recommend starting with Hinoki Village, full of Japanese-style charm, where you can experience wearing a traditional kimono and browse creative shops. Next, visit the Taiwan Tile Museum to appreciate its unique architectural art. After lunch, explore the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum to discover the beauty of Asian art and culture, with its rich collections and diverse exhibitions. In the evening, head to Wenhua Road Night Market to taste Chiayi's local snacks and soak in the lively atmosphere of everyday life.

A two-day, one-night Alishan trip is suitable for travelers with limited time, focusing mainly on the core experiences of Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, such as sunrise, the giant tree groves, and Sister Ponds. While the itinerary is compact, it covers the highlights. For a three-day, two-night trip, the pace is more relaxed. Besides an in-depth Alishan experience, you can arrange visits to nearby Fenqihu Old Street, the Tsou Cultural Village, or the Alishan tea plantations for a tea-picking experience, making the journey richer and more diverse, allowing for a deeper appreciation of Alishan's natural beauty and culture.

The peak seasons for tourism in Chiayi are usually the spring (February-April) for Alishan's cherry blossom season, and autumn (September-November) when the weather is cool and rainfall is less. To avoid crowds, it's recommended to visit on weekdays outside of national holidays or summer/winter breaks. Arriving early at popular spots like Zhushan Sunrise Observation Deck or visiting city attractions in the late afternoon can also help avoid peak daytime crowds. Planning your itinerary in advance and confirming local event information will facilitate a smoother trip.

To get to Chiayi from other parts of Taiwan, you can take the High-Speed Rail to Chiayi Station, then transfer to a Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus or a taxi to Alishan or Chiayi City. Driving yourself offers more flexibility. For accommodation, Chiayi City has numerous hotels and unique guesthouses with convenient transportation, suitable for travelers wanting to experience the city's culture and cuisine. If Alishan is your primary destination, staying within Alishan National Forest Recreation Area or in the Fenqihu area is recommended for convenient access to sunrise viewing and mountain activities, allowing you to enjoy nature.

With limited time, it's advisable to focus on specific areas. For instance, if you are passionate about natural scenery, concentrate on an Alishan day trip, including sunrise, the giant tree groves, and Fenqihu. If you prefer culture and history, plan a Chiayi City day trip: visit Hinoki Village and Taiwan Tile Museum in the morning, head to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum in the afternoon, and enjoy local delicacies at Wenhua Road Night Market in the evening. For transportation, consider hiring a private car or utilizing the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle service to save travel time effectively.

Chiayi offers many attractions suitable for family fun. We recommend visiting Alishan National Forest Recreation Area first, where children can learn about nature and ecology, and experience the forest railway. You can then visit the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum, which features a rich children's learning space and interactive exhibits. In the afternoon, head to the Chiayi Municipal Museum or the KANO Park to learn about baseball history and Chiayi's culture. Additionally, the Budai High Heels Church and the surrounding wetland park are good choices, providing ample space for children to play.

Chiayi's culinary scene is rich and diverse. The absolute must-try is the fragrant Chiayi Turkey Rice; each old shop has its unique flavor, worth savoring. Another signature dish is the rich and delicious Pot-stewed Fish Head, especially enjoyable on a cold day. For afternoon tea, try the silky smooth soybean pudding, perfect with peanuts or tapioca pearls. Don't forget the distinctive Fangkuai Su (Square Biscuits), a representative souvenir of Chiayi. You can easily find these delicacies at Wenhua Road Night Market and throughout the city.

Chiayi's cultural experiences can begin at Hinoki Village. This area preserves a large cluster of Japanese-style wooden buildings, being Taiwan's earliest forestry village. Walking through it feels like being in Japan, where you can experience wearing kimonos, visit creative boutiques, and enjoy Japanese-style cafes. The Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum focuses on Asian art and culture, showcasing rich artifacts and special exhibitions. Its architecture itself is a modern artistic creation integrated with water features. It's recommended to visit the nearby Taiwan Tile Museum to gain a deeper understanding of Chiayi's history and artistic aesthetics.

Centering your trip in Chiayi City, you can plan several exciting day trip routes. For example, heading towards the mountains, you can choose a Fenqihu day trip to experience the old street charm and forest railway culture. Towards the coast, visit the Budai High Heels Church to admire its unique land art, and then perhaps a trip to Dongshi Fishermen's Wharf to sample fresh seafood. Alternatively, consider visiting the Minxiong area to explore the infamous Ghost House Cafe or other creative parks. These routes are easily accessible via Taiwan Tourist Shuttle or by driving yourself, adding richness to your journey.