27 November 2025
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Alishan’s majestic mountain vistas and the poetic serenity of Sun Moon Lake are two of Taiwan’s most beloved destinations. Blessed with both natural splendor and cultural depth, they embody the island’s timeless charm.
It’s possible to take in both Alishan and Sun Moon Lake on a fulfilling two-day journey from Taichung — compact yet rewarding, with enough time to enjoy the highlights of both.
Day 1
Morning
Depart from Taichung with a hearty local breakfast
Kick off the day with a satisfying Taiwanese breakfast before heading into the mountains. Zai Lai is run by the third generation of a renowned Chiayi wa gui family The name Zai Lai refers to the indica rice used in the prized dish and also sounds like “come again” in Mandarin. Don’t miss the signature wa gui with sautéed radish and garlic sauce, topped with peanuts and fish floss — a simple, comforting and delicious dish that charms locals and tourists alike. Phone reservations are recommended.
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On the three-hour drive to Alishan, Fenqihu in Zhuqi Township makes a delightful break. This quaint mountain town stands 1,400 meters above sea level and is famous for its historic railway station and traditional railway bento boxes. Here, you can stretch your legs, sample local snacks such as train-themed cookies, aiyu jellies and rice cakes, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. Strolling along the century-old streets, taking in wooden houses and misty mountain views creates a serene prelude to the natural wonders awaiting in Alishan.
Afternoon
Explore Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
The Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, situated between 2,000 and 2,600 meters above sea level and flanked by the Yushan and Xue Mountain ranges, has been celebrated as one of Taiwan’s “Eight Views” for over a century. Even in summer, the cool mountain climate keeps temperatures below 20°C. Its famed “Five Wonders” — sunrise, sea of clouds, sunset, forest and railway — continue to mesmerize visitors.
The park’s layered forests are a highlight of its natural charm: from low-altitude acacias and camphor trees to high-altitude red cypress and hemlock. Built during the Japanese era to transport timber, the Alishan Forest Railway is now one of the world’s most scenic mountain railways. Each spring, from March to April, cherry blossoms paint the landscape pink, and a ride on the heritage steam train made with cypress through the blooming petals is a truly unforgettable experience.
If time allows, stroll through the Giant Tree Plank Trail or Shuishan Trail. Just a few minutes’ walk from Zhaoping Station leads into a misty forest dotted with ancient trees and old railway bridges. At the end of the trail, the Shuishan Giant Tree — over a thousand years old and as tall as a 10-story building — stands as a magnificent testament to the forest’s enduring beauty.
Further Reading: On the MICHELIN Bicycle Trail in Taipei & Taichung
Tip: overnight at Alishan for the best sunrise
Stay overnight at the Alishan Hotel or Alishan Shermuh Hotel, both conveniently located within the park. The Alishan Hotel offers a shuttle service to and from the railway station, while the Shermuh Hotel is just a five-minute walk from Zhaoping Station. From the comfort of your room or the hotel’s sky garden, admire the forested nightscape under a canopy of stars — a tranquil prelude to the next day’s sunrise.
Day 2
Morning
Chasing the sunrise
Around 3 or 4 a.m., the cool mountain air and drifting mist fill the forest, so be sure to bundle up. The train from Alishan Station to Zhushan Station takes approximately 30 minutes, winding through cypress forests as it heads toward the horizon. Upon arrival, follow fellow visitors to the Zhushan or Xiaoliyuan observation decks.
As the sky blushes red, golden light spills over the peaks. There's also a chance to witness a rolling sea of clouds emerging beneath the rising sun — a breathtaking spectacle worth the early wake-up.
Drive along the New Central Cross-Island Highway
The journey from Alishan to Sun Moon Lake takes roughly 2.5 hours by car (or about 3.5 hours via Taiwan Tourist Shuttle). Driving along the highway through Yushan National Park, stop at scenic highlights like Tataga and the famed Couple Trees. In autumn and winter, red maples and Formosan sweet gums blaze in fiery oranges and crimsons, turning the drive into a spectacular panorama. (Right image: The “Couple Trees” at Tataga, Yushan National Park. © Shutterstock)
Afternoon
Sun Moon Lake — serenity in motion
Arriving in Yuchi Township, the tranquil waters of Sun Moon Lake and the surrounding hills come into view. Once Taiwan’s largest natural lake, it was later converted into a semi-artificial reservoir for hydroelectric purposes. Today, it remains a thriving ecological habitat and the ancestral home of the Thao people.By day, the lake shimmers in shades of blue green; by dusk, it is enveloped in soft pastel light and mist, evoking the feel of an ink-and-wash painting.
Stop at Ita Thao Village for lunch, sampling local Thao specialties such as grilled wild boar, mountain vegetables, and Sun Moon Lake black tea. From the village, hop on a sightseeing boat for a full lake tour, or disembark at Shuishe Pier. The narrated cruise brings the lake’s legends and history to life, while lakeside trails and cycling paths offer a peaceful way to take in the ever-changing scenery and serenity.
Tip: relax and stay by the lake
For a luxurious lakeside retreat, check in at the MICHELIN-recommended Fleur de Chine Hotel. Perched on the northern slope, floor-to-ceiling windows frame ever-changing lake views. Rooms feature private terraces and hot-spring tubs, ideal for unwinding after a day of travel.Alternatively, the Grand Hilai Sun Moon Lake, located on the Hanbi Peninsula, boasts Taiwan’s highest infinity pool, blending seamlessly with the lake below. Its bicarbonate hot-spring baths, sourced from 1,600 meters underground, are silky, smooth and deeply soothing.
Evening
Return to Taichung with a fine meal
Conclude the journey with a memorable dinner in Taichung. One-MICHELIN-Starred Sur- presents contemporary Taiwanese cuisine crafted by Chef Ed Lin, a MICHELIN Young Chef Award winner, transforming memories and observations into delicate, sensory dishes.
Alternatively, try Tu Pang, a MICHELIN-recommended restaurant hidden inside Fusion Space 1962, offering a tasting menu inspired by local terroir and seasonal ingredients.
For homey, comforting flavors, Li Xiao Lou serves Taiwanese classics like salt-baked chicken and sorghum liquor-scented Kinmen sausages, perfect for sharing. Lou's (Nantun) delights with sesame oil chicken leg soup and kidney, while Wen Tao offers banquet-style nostalgia with barrel chicken and hearty Taiwanese flavors.
Further Reading: From Oo-peh-tshiat to Offal Delicacies: A Culinary Exploration from Hooves to Beaks in Taiwan
Where to Stay in Taichung
For an overnight stay, Fairfield by Marriott Taichung is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the bustling Feng Chia Night Market. Design enthusiasts will enjoy RedDot Hotel near Taichung Station, where bold colors, contemporary art and a giant metal slide in the lobby offer a playful and stylish finale to a two-day adventure.
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Hero image: © Shutterstock
