There are 1 way(s) to get from Chiayi to Alishan
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Taiwan has two main train systems: THSR (High-Speed Rail) and TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration). THSR stations are often outside city centers, while TRA stations are usually central. For Alishan, you'll start from Chiayi TRA Station for the bus, so don't head to the THSR station!
Many of Taiwan's most stunning natural attractions, including Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, and Taroko Gorge, are only accessible by bus. There's no train service to these high-altitude destinations. Plan your mountain excursions with bus travel in mind to avoid surprises.
While bus tickets from Chiayi to Alishan can often be purchased on the spot, especially on weekdays, booking ahead online through platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn for popular routes or during peak season can ensure you get your preferred departure time and avoid queues.
Alishan is at a significant elevation, meaning temperatures can be much cooler than in Chiayi, especially in the mornings and evenings. Bring layers of clothing to stay comfortable, even if it feels warm when you depart from the lowlands.
While not directly for Alishan, if you're spending time in Taipei, an EasyCard or Taipei Pass can streamline your local transport, making it easier to navigate to and from THSR/TRA stations. It's a small convenience that adds up.
🛣️ The journey experience
Planning your trip to Alishan? You're smart to look into the specifics, because as many independent travelers discover, Taiwan's excellent rail network doesn't reach every incredible destination. When you're heading to places like Sun Moon Lake, Taroko Gorge, or the stunning Alishan mountains, it's buses all the way. Knowing this upfront saves you time, stress, and helps you budget accurately, ensuring you don't overpay or assume a train will magically appear.
For your journey from Chiayi to Alishan, the only direct way is by bus. You'll find a reliable service operated by Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Routes 7322/7329) and Chiayi County Bus (Route 7322C). The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and costs around €4. These services run frequently from Chiayi TRA Station, making the connection straightforward and affordable, offering a scenic route up into the mountains.
Forget about the THSR or TRA trains for this leg of your journey. While the THSR is fantastic for speeding down the west coast between major cities, and the TRA train offers a slower, scenic loop around the island, neither will get you to Alishan. Embrace the bus for mountain destinations; it's designed to take you right there, offering a direct, cost-effective, and comfortable journey into Taiwan's beautiful natural parks. Book your tickets easily and enjoy the ride!
Frequently asked questions — Chiayi → Alishan
The best and only direct way to get from Chiayi to Alishan is by bus. There are no train services (THSR or TRA) that go directly to Alishan. You will take a local bus service, such as the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Routes 7322/7329) or Chiayi County Bus (Route 7322C), from Chiayi TRA Station directly up to Alishan.
The bus journey from Chiayi TRA Station to Alishan takes approximately 1 hour. This time can vary slightly depending on traffic conditions and the specific bus route, but it's generally a straightforward and scenic ride directly into the mountains.
A one-way bus ticket from Chiayi to Alishan costs around €4. This is a very budget-friendly option for reaching one of Taiwan's premier mountain destinations. You can typically purchase tickets directly from the bus driver or at the bus station counter.
No, there are no THSR (High-Speed Rail) or TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) train services that go directly to Alishan. The rail lines do not extend into this mountainous region. Your journey will involve taking a THSR or TRA train to Chiayi, and then transferring to a bus for the final leg to Alishan.
✨ Why visit Alishan?
- ✓ Witness the breathtaking Alishan sunrise over a sea of clouds from Zhushan or Ogasawara.
- ✓ Ride the historic Alishan Forest Railway through scenic mountain landscapes.
- ✓ Explore ancient cypress and redwood groves, including the 'Sacred Tree' (Shenmu).
- ✓ Hike along serene trails like the Giant Tree Plank Trail, connecting natural wonders.
- ✓ Savor local high-mountain Alishan tea, renowned for its rich aroma and flavor.
☀️ When to visit Alishan?
SUBTROPICAL MOUNTAIN CLIMATE
October to April — Offers clear skies for sunrise views and pleasant hiking temperatures.
What to do in Alishan?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Alishan?
For independent French-speaking travelers, Alishan is best explored over 2 days and 1 night to fully experience the sunrise, various trails, and the forest railway. If time is limited, a full day trip can cover the main sights, but you'll miss the iconic sunrise. Consider staying in Alishan village for easy access to early morning activities.
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