Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
As you ride up it may feel like the train is going backwards. It is! The track arrange-
ment employs a unique system of switchbacks that allow it to traverse slopes ordinarily
too steep for trains.
Sunrise
Sunrise viewing is
de rigueur
here. There are two main viewing venues: the summit of
Chushan
(Zhùshān; elevation 2489m) and
Tatajia
(Tǎtǎjiā), a mountain pass 2610m
above sea level in nearby Yushan National Park.
To reach Chushan you can either take the train from Alishan station (expect a long
queue at the ticket booth), or hike up along the
Chushan Sunrise Viewing Trail
(Zhùshān Guānrìchū Bùdào). The train takes about 25 minutes, while hiking can take up
to 1½ hours if you start in the village.
If you wish to see the sunrise at Tatajia, pay for a seat on one of the sunrise-tour
minibuses (NT$300, three hours). Any hotel can arrange it for you. Buses come directly
to your hotel.
The minibus has several advantages over the train, one being that it stops at numerous
scenic locations, such as the monkey-viewing area and the site of a few ancient trees, on
the way back from the sunrise viewing.
Hiking
There are many trails in the park, ranging from strolls around flower gardens to hikes up
mountaintops requiring several hours or more to complete. On the
Giant Tree Trail
(Jùmùqún Zhàndào) you'll find majestic old cypresses up to 2000 years old. This trail is
best done towards dark, when the crowds have left.
For a bit of peace and quiet and a few hours' workout on a natural path, the
Duei-Kao-
Yueh Trail
(Dùigāoyuè Bùdào) is just the ticket. The Chushan Sunrise Viewing Trail, and
the viewing platform on it, are busy at dawn but empty of people by late morning.
For more information, including times and distances for trails, pick up the brochure at
the visitor centre.
Festivals & Events
Cherry Blossom Festival
FESTIVAL
The Cherry Blossom Festival runs in March or April for two weeks, while the trees are in
bloom. This is an extremely busy time for the park.
