Alishan Sunrise Guide: RTR Editors’ 8 Best Sunrise Spots and Stress-Free Transport Tips

Alishan Sunrise: What Is the Charm of It?

The enduring appeal of the Alishan sunrise isn’t just about its fame. It’s because when the sun rises, it brings together high-mountain terrain, rolling seas of clouds, forest silhouettes, and layered light transitions—all elements that must align to create the astonishing experience.

For RTR editorial team, watching the Alishan sunrise is not just a photo-taking mission, it's also an unforgettable experience that deserves careful planning and patient waiting. You’re not just here to see the sun rise—you’re stepping into a quiet transition from night to morning deep in the mountains.

Why Is the Alishan Sunrise So Famous?

The Alishan Range and the Central Mountain Range run parallel to each other, both with average elevations exceeding 2,000 meters. In the early morning, cold air sinks overnight while moisture rises from the ground, creating ideal conditions for alishan sunrise sea of clouds to form. When the first ray of sunlight emerge from the direction of Yushan, the light illuminates the cloud layer first, tinting it golden-orange. Gradually, mountain ridgelines and the silhouettes of fir and hemlock forests appear, followed by the full emergence of the sun—creating a scene rich in depth and layers.

This entire process usually lasts 10–20 minutes, with the scenery changing every single minute. That’s why the sunrise alishan moves both photographers and casual travelers alike, and why Alishan has become one of Taiwan’s most iconic landscapes in the minds of international visitors.

The History and Legends Behind the Sunrise Viewing Platforms

In its early days, Alishan was not a tourist destination but a key forestry area closely tied to logging development and the forest railway. The Zhushan area, with its open views and easy access for people to observe weather and sunlight, became an important lookout point and eventually evolved into today’s Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform.

As forestry declined and tourism rose, these once purely functional high points transformed into places where people gather to welcome the sunrise.

In a way, the Alishan sunrise symbolizes a shift in the role of the mountain forests and serves as a reflection of Taiwan’s mountain tourism history.

Many elders say, “You haven’t truly been to Alishan until you’ve watched the sunrise here.” This isn’t just a slogan—it’s a collective mountain memory built over generations.

3 Most Popular Places to Watch the Alishan Sunrise

We highlight the safest choices recommended by our editors for first-time visitors who want the highest chance of success.

1. Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform (祝山觀日平台)

The Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform is often considered the definitive Alishan sunrise experience. Not because it’s the most dramatic, but because it offers the highest success rate with the fewest variables. For first-time visitors, Zhushan is a choice that almost never goes wrong. Facing directly east with minimal obstructions, the entire sunrise process is clearly visible—from the sky gradually brightening, to clouds changing color, then to the sun fully rising.

This is why Zhushan is often regarded as the official sunrise experience. It may not be the most distinctive viewpoint, but it’s the most straightforward way to understand the beauty of the Alishan sunrise.

📍 What to Expect On Site?

• Requires taking the Zhushan Line forest railway; advance booking is necessary during peak seasons
• Crowds gather early in the morning
• Hard to avoid people in photos, but the atmosphere is lively
• Strong tourist vibe, less suitable for quiet contemplation

✔️ Attraction Highlights

• Stable sunrise direction with high success rate
• Well-maintained facilities and high safety
• Clear paths, friendly for seniors and first-time visitors

Best For

• First-time Alishan sunrise viewers
• Families with elders
• Travelers who prefer a simple, guided experience

2. Duigaoyue Viewing Platform (對高岳觀景台)

Source: Round Taiwan Round

If Zhushan is the “basic standard,” then Duigaoyue is more like the advanced version. The appeal here isn’t just the sun itself, but the way the sense of space unfolds. Thanks to its elevation and position, you can clearly feel the mountain ranges receding layer by layer into the distance. When a sea of clouds appears, it flows through the valleys rather than sitting still beneath your viewpoint, creating a strong three-dimensional effect. Many photography enthusiasts prefer Duigaoyue precisely because it’s easier to capture scenes where mountains, clouds, and light interact with one another.

📍 What to Expect On Site?

• A short walk is required from the main route
• During popular time slots, you’ll need to arrive early to secure a spot
• Weather conditions change quickly at dawn, and winds can be strong
• Not ideal for visitors with limited mobility or those who don’t want to stand and wait

✔️ Attraction Highlights

• Wide-open views with strong depth and layering
• Excellent sea of clouds performance, great for photography
• Slightly fewer crowds than Zhushan (though still a popular spot!)

Best for

• Travelers looking to capture depth and spatial perspective in photos
• Those willing to arrive early and wait
• Visitors who’ve already seen Zhushan and want a different viewpoint

3. Ogasawara Mountain Viewpoint (小笠原山觀景點)

Source: Alishan National Scenic Area Administration

Sunrise at Ogasawara Mountain is a choice for perspective-focused travelers. It’s not the easiest spot to reach, nor the most comfortable, but when conditions are right, the visual impact is often the strongest. With its higher elevation, the viewpoint offers a overlooking angle. When sea of clouds forms, it appears in constant motion—rolling and surging rather than lying flat below, creating a dramatic sense of scale. As the sun rises, light sweeps quickly across the cloud layer, making scene changes rapid and dynamic—ideal for travelers who enjoy capturing movement in their images.

📍 What to Expect On Site?

• Noticeable wind in the early morning, with low perceived temperatures
• Not suitable for long stays—proper warm clothing is essential
• The route and viewing angle can be challenging for first-timers
• Not recommended for last-minute plans or underprepared visitors

✔️ Attraction Highlights

• Unique overlooking perspective with dramatic, rolling sea of clouds
• Rapid sunrise transitions with strong visual impact
• A distinctly different style compared to Zhushan and Duigaoyue

Best for

• Travelers with some outdoor experience
• Photography enthusiasts seeking unique sunrise angles
• Visitors who’ve been to Alishan multiple times and want something new

RTR Editors’ Private Picks: 8 Best Alishan Sunrise Spots to Avoid the Crowds

If your idea of watching the Alishan sunrise isn’t standing shoulder-to-shoulder counting down in a crowd, but rather a calm, unhurried morning where you can experience the entire transition from night to day, then this next section is one you’ll want to save.

After multiple on-site visits, the RTR editorial team found that once you step away from fixed train schedules, designated platforms, and rigid routes, Alishan offers sunrise viewpoints almost everywhere—each well worth waking up early for.

The eight locations below are either outside the main park or hidden among tea plantations and trails. What they all share is freedom from fixed alishan sunrise train schedules, the ability to avoid heavy crowds, and a more complete sunrise experience. Each spot has its own personality, suited to different travel rhythms.

1. Alishan Sunrise: 89.5K Scenic Viewpoint (89.5k 觀景台)

Source: Round Taiwan Round

Located along the Alishan Highway outside the official park area, the 89.5K Scenic Viewpoint is one of the RTR editors’ most frequently revisited sunrise spots. Its true value isn’t fame, but the most well-balanced overall experience. There’s no need to compete for Zhushan train tickets or follow fixed schedules. As long as weather conditions allow, you can drive there, walk a short distance, and reach the viewing point. The sky transitions fully from dark to light, and when clouds appear, you can clearly see sunlight slowly spreading across them. It also connects seamlessly with the rest of your day: you can continue uphill into the Alishan park or head the opposite direction to catch a sunset in the afternoon, enjoying both moments in one day.

👉🏻 RTR Editor's Notes

• Outside Alishan park, completely avoiding Zhushan crowds
• A full sunrise process at a relaxed pace
• Highly flexible itinerary—ideal as an Alishan sunrise starting point

Best for

• Self-driving travelers (or private charter rides)
• First-timers who want an easy, low-stress sunrise
• Those saving their energy for forest trails later in the day

2. Alishan Sunrise: Shengli Farm (Xiding) (生力農場 隙頂)

Located in the Xiding area at around 1,250 meters above sea level, Shengli Farm offers a sunrise experience completely different from platform-style viewpoints. Its charm lies in making sunrise part of daily life, rather than a rushed sightseeing goal. Some rooms feature east-facing balconies or sunrise views, where light flows through tea fields and mist as you wake. There’s no need to rush out or set alarms to the exact minute—just step onto the balcony and welcome the day. After sunrise, you can walk directly to the Eryanping Trail or join tea-picking and tea-making experiences, keeping the entire morning gentle and unhurried. Guests staying overnight can also enjoy Shengli Farm’s distinctive tea-fusion cuisine for lunch.

👉🏻 RTR Editor's Notes

• Tea plantation views with a lived-in sunrise atmosphere
• Milder temperatures, less biting cold in the early morning
• Easily extended into a half-day or full-day slow travel experience

Best for

• Couples
• Families with elders or children
• Slow travelers who want to “live within the scenery”

3. Alishan Sunrise: Longyin Mountain Trail (龍銀山步道)

Source: Round Taiwan Round

The appeal of Longyin Mountain Trail lies in the journey through bamboo forest before sunrise. Entering the trail in darkness, surrounded by bamboo, you might expect the view to stay enclosed—until it suddenly opens up, revealing the viewing point and sky all at once. The sunrise here isn’t a single moment but a complete morning experience. When clouds appear, they drift slowly through the valleys; even without clouds, the layered ridgelines remain clearly defined. Because a walk is required, this spot naturally filters out those seeking quick access, keeping crowds relatively low.

👉🏻 RTR Editor's Notes

• Bamboo forest trail followed by a sudden open view
• Atmosphere-driven; the process matters more than the moment
• Ideal when paired with nearby accommodations within walking distance

Best for

• Outdoor-oriented travelers
• Photography enthusiasts
• Those who enjoy “walking into the scenery”

4. Alishan Sunrise: Longding Trail (巃頂步道)

Source: Alishan National Scenic Area Administration

Among the eight private picks, Longding Trail is the most family-friendly with lowest-requirement option. The trail is short with gentle slopes, and it takes only about 5–10 minutes to reach the viewing platform from the entrance. Even in low visibility at dawn, it doesn’t feel stressful. On clear days, sunrise and sea of clouds often appear together, creating a calm yet visually rich scene. It’s an ideal choice for first-timers who want to try a non-Zhushan sunrise.

👉🏻 RTR Editor's Notes

• Short, easy trail
• High safety, low risk
• High chance of sea clouds on days with nice weather

Best for

• Families with children
• Travelers with elders
• Visitors who don’t want to walk far in the dark

5. Alishan Sunrise: Shizhuo Trails - Sunset Trail (霞之道)

Source: Alishan National Scenic Area Administration

Sunset Trail is a route where sunrise is only the beginning. After watching the sunrise from a high point, the real highlight begins—a slow descent along tea plantation paths. As the sun rises higher, the angle of light, the color of the tea fields, and even the scent of the air gradually change. This isn’t a trail that pushes you to hurry; it wants you to slow down. Paired with nearby Indigenous villages, local shops, or hands-on experiences, it easily extends into a half-day cultural journey.

👉🏻 RTR Editor's Notes

• Sunrise and tea plantation trails in one route
• Flexible itinerary with natural extensions
• A balanced blend of culture and scenery

Best for

• Slow travelers
• Those interested in local culture and stories

6. Alishan Sunrise: Tefuye Old Trail Zizhong Entrance (特富野古道 自忠入口)

Sunrise on the Tefuye Old Trail is the version that forest lovers fall in love with. There’s no large platform here, and the focus isn’t on seeing the whole sun. Instead, it’s about sensing that “morning has arrived” within the forest. Light slowly filters through dense cedar and cypress trees, illuminating the air as temperature and color gradually shift. The experience is quiet and calm. After sunrise, you can continue visiting the Lulin Giant Tree, naturally extending the morning into a journey through forest history.

👉🏻 RTR Editor's Notes

• Deep forest atmosphere
• Extremely few visitors
• A sensory, feeling-based sunrise rather than a visual spectacle

Best for

• Travelers who prefer forests over viewing platforms
• Those not chasing check-in photos
• Solo travelers or small groups

7. Alishan Sunrise: Small Industrial Road Near the Tsou Market (鄒市集旁樂山產業道路小徑)

Source: Round Taiwan Round

This small industrial road is a daily route for locals. There are no tourist facilities at all, yet it unexpectedly offers an open view. What you see here isn’t a designed “viewpoint,” but sunrise as part of rural life. No railings, no announcements—just the sky slowly brightening.

👉🏻 RTR Editor's Notes

• Completely non-touristy
• Quiet and pure
• Naturally open views

Best for

• Self-driving travelers familiar with mountain roads
• Visitors who’ve seen alishan sunrise taiwan many times
• Anyone who wants to avoid crowds

8. Alishan Sunrise: Gaomei Camping Area, Alishan (Rating 4.9) (拾野・拾光－阿里山高美露營區)

Source: Round Taiwan Round

Watching sunrise from a campsite is a completely different experience. You’re not “going to watch sunrise”—it simply happens as you wake up. Unzip the tent, sit down comfortably, and watch clouds and light slowly appear. There’s no gathering time and no pressure to leave. Gaomei Camping Area has a high chance of sea-of-clouds scene, making both the physical sensation and visuals especially strong at dawn.

👉🏻 RTR Editor's Notes

• Sunrise seamlessly integrated with accommodation
• Strong sense of ritual
• High probability of sea of clouds

Best for

• Camping enthusiasts
• Couples and small groups
• Travelers who want sunrise to be the ritual start of the day

Best Time & Seasons to Watch the Alishan Sunrise

When it comes to watching the Alishan sunrise, the real challenge is never whether you’ll see the sun—it’s how well you manage timing and seasonality so the entire morning feels smooth, comfortable, and regret-free.

How do you check the time of sunrise—and why does the actual moment often differ?

When planning their first Alishan sunrise, most people start by checking Alishan sunrise timetable. That’s not wrong—but it should only be used as a reference, not as your exact arrival time.

That’s because Alishan isn’t a single viewpoint, but an entire high-mountain region. Different sunrise spots vary in the following ways:

• Elevation (from about 1,200 meters to over 2,400 meters)
• Viewing direction (east, southeast, or slightly northeast)
• Whether ridgelines, forests, or cloud layers block the view

These differences directly affect the moment you actually see the sun. Sometimes the official alishan sunrise time shows 5:30 a.m., but at a tea plantation or trail viewpoint, the sun may not appear until 5:40. On the other hand, at a completely unobstructed viewpoint, the sky may start glowing even earlier than scheduled.

👉🏻 RTR Editor’s practical advice:

• Use sunrise timetables only to estimate the general time window
• No matter what, arrive at least 30 minutes early
• Those 30 minutes aren’t wasted—they’re the most beautiful prelude, when the sky shifts color and clouds unfold

Many people say they “missed the sunrise,” but in reality, the weather wasn’t bad—they simply arrived too late and only saw the sun after it was already up.

Which season offers the most beautiful Alishan sunrise?

You can see the sunrise in Alishan year-round, but how beautiful it feels depends on what you’re hoping to see.

❄️ Autumn & Winter (approx. October–February): Best for sea of clouds

• Larger temperature differences between day and night create ideal sea of clouds conditions
• If you’re dreaming of the sun emerging from sea of clouds, autumn and winter offer the highest success rate
• Early mornings are cold—proper layering and staying warm are essential

🌸 Spring (approx. March–April): Softest light

• Subtle color transitions with pink, peach, and light purple skies
• Perfect for travelers who value atmosphere over dramatic sea of clouds
• Milder temperatures—this is a favorite season among our editors

☀️ Summer (approx. May–September): Stable mornings, changeable afternoons

• Early mornings are often clear, but humidity is high and clouds change quickly
• The sunrise itself is still beautiful, but be mindful of afternoon fog and thunderstorms
• Best to focus your energy on sunrise, then wrap up earlier in the day

👉🏻 Quick season guide:

• Want sea of clouds ➜ Autumn & winter
• Want color and atmosphere ➜ Spring
• Want an easy, flexible sunrise ➜ Summer mornings

☕ After the Alishan Sunrise, Don’t Rush the Day—Warm Up with a Hot Drink

After watching the sunrise, your body tells the truth about what to do next. You likely woke up around 3 or 4 a.m., stood in the cold wind for 20–40 minutes, and once the sun finally rose, your tension suddenly released. If you jump straight into the next activity, it’s easy to feel exhausted for the rest of the day.

👉🏻 The one small ritual that RTR editors recommend most:
After sunrise, find a tea house or café that opens early. Sit down and relax. Drink something warm. This simple pause doesn’t just warm your body—it helps your emotions to settle, making the entire morning feel complete.

Early-morning spots worth checking in at:

🍵 ChayaZoy (佐一茶屋)
Ideal for those who want to sit quietly and let their bodies fully wake up.

• Address: No. 2-9, 1st Neighborhood, Leye Village, Alishan Township, Chiayi County
• Phone: 0975-913-068
• Opening hours: 08:30 – 20:00

☕ Zouzhouyuan Specialty Coffee (鄒築園咖啡)
Consistently good coffee and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for your first cup of coffee after sunrise.

• Address: No. 71, 2nd Neighborhood, Leye Village, Alishan Township, Chiayi County 605
• Phone: (05) 256-1118
• Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00

🍵 FKUO (山芙蓉茶業)
If you want a cup of hot tea to gently hold the entire morning together, this is a great choice

• Address: No. 280, 9th Neighborhood, Alishan Township, Chiayi County 605
• Phone: (05) 256-1483
• Opening hours: 08:30 – 17:00

Alishan Sunrise Transportations

How you get to Alishan to watch the sunrise has a huge impact on your morning experience. Some options are iconic but sacrifice flexibility; others cost more but save you extra energy and provides a more relaxing vibe. Below are the three most common—and most practical—choices.

Taking the Alishan Forest Railway

The Alishan Forest Railway (Zhushan Line) is the classic image many people associate with the Alishan sunrise. Riding the early-morning train from Zhaoping or Alishan Station up to Zhushan, you’ll find yourself among travelers from all over who woke up early for the same reason. The atmosphere alone is part of the experience.

📍 What to expect with Alishan railway:

• Fixed schedules with little flexibility
• Advance ticket booking required during peak seasons (weekends, holidays, cherry blossom season)
• Very early meeting times; missing the train leaves few backup options
• Heavy crowds after getting off the train—Zhushan Platform is often packed

✔️ Pros of the forest railway

• Strong sense of the Alishan experience and tradition
• No need to drive mountain roads in the dark
• Very intuitive for first-time visitors

Best for

• First-time Alishan visitors wanting the classic route
• Travelers who don’t plan to drive
• Those focused solely on checking off “Zhushan Sunrise”

Private Car or Carpooling Options

If you’re aiming for tea plantations, trails, or off-the-beaten-path sunrise spots rather than Zhushan, using a private car or carpooling service through platforms like tripool is often the least exhausting with the fewest uncertainties. These services typically pick you up directly from your accommodation at dawn, adjust departure times based on sunrise conditions, and minimize walking after arrival. Once sunrise is over, you can return to your hotel directly or continue on with your planned itinerary.

📍 What the private car experience is like:

• No need to drive mountain roads in the dark
• Flexible adjustments based on weather and cloud conditions
• No transportation worries after sunrise
• Higher cost compared to public transport

✔️ Pros of private transport

• High flexibility and access to hidden spots
• Requiring the least physical effort
• Ideal for early mornings when energy is low

Best for

• Travelers targeting private sunrise locations
• Couples, small families, and friend groups
• Photography travelers with heavy gear

Driving Yourself: What to Know

Driving yourself offers the most flexibility—but also requires the most careful risk assessment. If you’re comfortable with mountain roads and have a flexible schedule, self-driving allows you to choose viewpoints and control your pace. If you’re underprepared or low on energy, early-morning driving can quickly make the experience tense.

📍 Common early-morning driving conditions in Alishan:

• Slippery roads, especially after rain
• Wildlife activity at night and dawn
• Sharp curves and limited lighting requiring high concentration

👉🏻 RTR Editor's advice:

• Strongly consider staying near your chosen sunrise spot the night before
• Avoid driving all the way up from level ground before dawn
• If the previous day was packed, skip self-driving for sunrise
• Parking inside Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is extremely limited. Consider parking outside the park, such as in Fenqihu or Anding parking lots instead.

✔️ Pros of self-driving

• Maximum itinerary freedom
• Ability to change sunrise spots last-minute
• Easy to connect sunrise with other daytime attractions

Best for

• Experienced mountain drivers
• Travelers who want full control over the flow of their day

RTR Editors’ Transportation Summary

• Just want the classic experience once ➜ Forest railway
• Want hidden sunrise spots and to save energy ➜ Private car or carpooling
• Want to move entirely at your own pace ➜ Self-drive (but stay nearby)

Choose the right transportation, and half of your sunrise experience is already a success!

Recommended Nearby Stops After Watching the Alishan Sunrise

After watching the Alishan sunrise, the key to planning the rest of your day isn’t “how many places you can squeeze in,” but how gently you let your body and mood transition back into daytime rhythm. The three spots below are all places the RTR editors have personally visited and believe are the most suitable follow-up stops after sunrise—unhurried, low-effort, yet perfectly complementing Alishan’s forest atmosphere and sense of calm.

Alishan Giant Tree Area (阿里山神木區)

The Alishan Giant Tree Area isn’t a place for quick photo check-ins—it’s a forest space meant to be walked slowly and experienced with time. Home to numerous towering red cypress, hinoki cypress, and hemlock giants, this area represents the heart of what “Alishan forest” truly means. After sunrise, the sun is still low, and angled light filters into the forest, forming visible beams and layered shadows. Compared to midday, the Giant Tree Area is quieter and more peaceful in the morning, revealing its original character. With wooden paths and gentle slopes, it requires little physical effort and is perfect for a relaxed post-sunrise stroll.

📝 RTR Editor's Visit Notes

• High forest humidity and fresh air make walking especially relaxing
• Opportunities to see numbered giant trees and natural regrowth after fallen trees
• Flexible pacing—easy to stop, rest, or observe details at any time

👉🏻 Suggested way to plan

• After sunrise → return to accommodation to freshen up → enter Giant Tree Area in the morning
• Move slowly and allow 1.5–2 hours for an unhurried walk

Sister Lakes (姊妹潭)

Sister Lakes consists of two adjacent lakes—Elder Sister Lake and Younger Sister Lake—and is one of the quietest, most easily overlooked corners of the Alishan area. If sunrise is about movement and changing light, Sister Lakes is its opposite: almost silent, visually gentle, with only still water, forest reflections, and occasional drifting mist. After sunrise, many travelers naturally feel they don’t want more stimulation. This is what Sister Lakes provides—offering a soft transition where emotions can slowly settle. When the water is calm, the surrounding forest reflects perfectly; even in mist, the scene remains beautifully layered.

📝 RTR Editor's Visit Notes

• The loop trail around the lakes takes only 15–20 minutes
• Better suited for sitting quietly than constant photography
• Best atmosphere in early morning or when mist hasn’t fully cleared

👉🏻 Suggested way to plan

• If you don’t feel like tackling a long trail after sunrise, take a gentle walk around Sister Lakes
• After visiting the Giant Tree Area, schedule a calm, stationary break here

Zhaoping Park & Cherry Blossom Trail (沼平公園與櫻花步道)

Zhaoping Park is the most relaxed and accessible space in the Alishan area. Unlike the tense atmosphere of Zhushan or the solemn depth of the Giant Tree Area, Zhaoping Park is where your body can gently return to daytime rhythm. During cherry blossom season, the open views and soft light make the Cherry Blossom Trail especially easy and enjoyable to walk, offering a stress-free way to ease into the morning after sunrise. Even when it’s not cherry blossom season, the grassland, forest, and distant mountain views are inherently calming, making this an ideal “buffer zone.”

📝 RTR Editor's Visit Notes

• Flat terrain that’s comfortable and easy to walk
• Suitable for picnics, coffee breaks, and short rests
• Connects to other trails without needing to backtrack

👉🏻 Suggested way to plan

• Best during moments of post-sunrise fatigue
• Ideal as a main activity area for families with children or elders

Recommended Sunrise Accommodations in Alishan

Why Stay Inside Alishan National Forest Recreation Area?

The biggest advantage of staying inside Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is simple: proximity.

Watching the Alishan sunrise often means waking up at 3 or 4 a.m. If your accommodation is far from the viewing spot, even the most beautiful scenery can feel exhausting due to long, dark transfers. Staying inside the park significantly reduces this early-morning stress.

When you actually stay inside the park, you’ll notice the difference in several key ways:

• Shorter travel time before sunrise—no need for long rides or driving mountain roads in the dark
• Greater flexibility if weather conditions change suddenly
• After sunrise, you can return to your room immediately to rest, nap, or take a hot shower

In addition, accommodations inside the park are usually closer to areas like the Giant Tree Zone and Zhaoping. This allows you move seamlessly into your morning itinerary, with no awkward downtime after sunrise.

📍 Things to keep in mind:

• Prices are generally higher
• Rooms sell out quickly during peak seasons (weekends, cherry blossom season)
• The atmosphere is more tourist-oriented, with less authentic local feel

Who Should Choose to Stay Inside the Park?

• First-time visitors to Alishan
• Travelers with elderly family members or children
• Anyone who wants to minimize physical effort in the early morning

Where to Stay in Alishan to See Sunrise

A truly good sunrise accommodation isn’t about star ratings or brand fame. What really matters is how close it is to the sunrise spot, how demanding the early-morning transfer is, and whether you can rest well afterward.

Based on actual location, traveler reviews, and sunrise routes, the following three options are the most reliable and least likely to disappoint.

🏡 Alishan Indigo Hotel (阿里山英迪格酒店)

Source: Round Taiwan Round

Alishan Indigo Hotel is located at the 57.5 km mark of Provincial Highway 18 (Longtou), about a 50-minute drive from the Alishan park entrance. It offers the most complete facilities and the most overall experience in the Alishan area.

Although it is not inside the forest recreation area, its rooftop observation deck is considered one of the most premium sunrise viewing spots in Alishan. It is especially popular with first-time visitors who want a relaxed, low-stress itinerary.

The biggest advantage of watching the sunrise here is that there’s no need to rush. You don’t have to travel long distances before dawn or rely on a single transportation schedule. You can wake up at your own pace and head to designated viewing areas within the hotel. After sunrise, you can return directly to your room to rest or enjoy a hot shower—perfect for travelers who prefer a leisurely sunrise experience.

📝 Accommodation Highlights

• Minimal early-morning travel distance
• Excellent views from public spaces; easy to rest afterward
• Complete facilities with consistent and good dining and service quality

Before You Book

• The price is higher; rooms sell out quickly during peak season
• Resort-style hotel with less local, homestay-like atmosphere

🏡 Alishan Sunrise B&B (阿里山初日)

Source: Alishan First Sunrise Facebook Page

Alishan Sunrise B&B is a favorite among experienced travelers who return again after their first stay. It may not be luxurious, but it excels when it comes to sunrise visitor routes.

Its biggest strengths are location and flexibility. The B&B is close to several lesser-known sunrise spots, meaning no long early-morning transfers and no crowds competing for the same viewing route. The hosts are highly familiar with local weather and cloud conditions and often proactively suggest the best day and direction for sunrise viewing—an invaluable advantage for first-timers exploring off-the-beaten-path sunrise locations.

📝 Accommodation Highlights

• Close to hidden sunrise spots with minimal early-morning travel
• Hosts provide practical weather and sunrise advice
• Reasonable pricing

Before You Book

• Rooms and public areas are simple and unpretentious
• Advance booking required for weekends and holidays

🏡 Alishan Hotel (阿里山賓館)

Source: Alishan Hotel Official Website

Alishan Hotel is one of the most historically significant accommodations in Alishan and, for many, an inseparable part of their Alishan memories.

Watching the sunrise here carries a strong sense of time and ritual. Waking up in a historic building and stepping outside to watch the mist and light slowly change feels less like a tourist activity and more like a morning lived in the mountains.

Located inside the park, it offers easy sunrise access and low physical strain. After sunrise, you can return to your room to rest before starting your day at a relaxed pace.

📝 Accommodation Highlights

• The most iconic and historic hotel in Alishan
• Inside-park location with convenient sunrise routes
• Architecture and surroundings rich in nostalgic character

Before You Book

• Facilities and design are more traditional
• Room types and views vary significantly by building—choose carefully
• Higher price range

How to Choose the Most Convenient Place to Stay?

Many travelers ask, “Which one is the best?” But based on RTR editors’ experience, the better question is: Which one fits your itinerary and travel rhythm best?

Ask yourself these three questions:

1️⃣ What type of sunrise do you want to see?

• Zhushan or classic park sunrise ➜ Stay inside the park
• Tea plantations, trails, or hidden sunrise spots ➜ Choose accommodations outside the park or along the route

2️⃣ What matters most to you?

• Comfort and quality rest ➜ Hotel-style accommodation
• Flexibility and local insight ➜ B&B or homestay

3️⃣ How is your early-morning stamina?

• Don’t want to travel in the dark or get too tired ➜ The closer, the better
• Comfortable waking early with flexible plans ➜ Consider distinctive stays outside the park

👉🏻 RTR Editor’s practical conclusion:
Decide where you want to watch the sunrise first, then choose your accommodation—not the other way around. The right choice turns the Alishan sunrise from a rushed activity into a comfortable experience that sets the tone for the entire day.

Bonus Sunrise Spots Around Alishan: Meishan & Ruili Area

When it comes to watching sunrises in Alishan, RTR editors have one sincere reminder from personal experience: protect your eyes.

When the sun first emerges from the clouds, the light is concentrated and intense. Prolonged direct viewing can seriously harm your eyesight.

RTR strongly recommends preparing one of the following:

• Black cellophane
• Protective eye shields
• Certified solar observation filters

These tools aren’t for staring at the sun continuously, but for safely checking position, framing shots, or briefly observing the sun.

RTR editors also have three hidden sunrise gems to share—but you’ll have to read to the end to find them!

If you’ve already seen Zhushan, Dui Gao Yue, and even Alishan’s lesser-known sunrise spots, the Meishan and Ruili areas are well worth waking up for next. These sunrises focus less on dramatic altitude and more on tea fields, mountain towns, mist, and everyday life. For RTR editors, it’s more about staying overnight and greeting the sunrise naturally than rushing to a single viewpoint.

1. Ruili | Green Tunnel Scenic Observatory (瑞里｜綠色隧道觀景台)

Source: Alishan National Scenic Area Administration

(Approx. 1.5-hour drive from Alishan park)

Ruili is a popular alternative for seasoned travelers who want to avoid the crowds of the Alishan park. Its sunrise atmosphere is completely different—gentle, intimate, and largely free of tourist interference.

The Green Tunnel is a flat, tree-lined road about 2 km long, surrounded by bamboo and forest. In the early morning, mist flows through the woods. As the sun rises, the light slowly spreads down the road. Instead of looking down from a peak, you experience light guiding you forward.

This sunrise spot is ideal for travelers who don’t insist on seeing the full sun. Even on cloudy mornings, the layers of light and mist remain beautiful, often making success rates higher than expected.

👉🏻 Why Ruili Is Worth the Trip

• Soft sunrise with a very high success rate
• No large viewing platforms; minimal crowds
• Easy to pair with nearby accommodations—no long early-morning travel

Recommended Stay

Xu's Tea Garden B&B (許家茶園民宿)
Located right within the tea fields, allowing easy walking or short transfers at dawn. Here, watching the sunrise feels like something that simply happens when you wake up—not a morning sprint.

• Address: No. 74, Ruili Village, Meishan Township, Chiayi County
• Phone: 0928-712-339
• Check-in Time: 3:00 PM
• Check-out Time: 11:00 AM

2. Green Lake Tea Plantation (Bihushan碧湖山觀光茶園) | A Classic Tea-Field Sunrise

Source: Alishan National Scenic Area Administration

Bihushan Tea Plantation perfectly combines “watching the sunrise” with “staying in a tea plantation.” RTR editors highly recommend it for travelers seeking a comfortable sunrise experience.

The biggest advantage is the open terrain. The plantation includes a free viewing platform with almost no obstructions, allowing you to clearly see the sky transition from darkness to light.

Some rooms are “Suite with Sunrise Views,” meaning you can watch the sunrise without leaving your room—no heavy jackets required. Even more special is the tea-brewing platform at a higher elevation, accessible only to overnight guests, offering an even wider panoramic view.

👉🏻 Why Bihushan Is a Highlight for RTR Editors

1. Free viewing platform with unobstructed sunrise views
2. Suite with sunrise views for maximum comfort
3. Exclusive access to a higher tea-brewing viewpoint
4. Only a 15-minute drive from Taiping Suspension Bridge

• Address: No. 38-9, Meishan Township, Chiayi County
• Phone: (05) 257-1569

3. 1314 Sunrise Peak Observation Deck |  Meishan Sunrise Peak Trail (1314觀景台｜嘉義梅山觀日峰)

Source: Alishan National Scenic Area Administration

The 1314 Sunrise Peak Observation Deck is located at Sunrise Peak in Meishan, at an elevation of about 1,311 meters. It’s one of the most open and expansive sunrise spots in the region.

It’s famous not only for its height, but also for being a filming location for Royal Tea Garden commercials, giving it strong visual recognition. On clear mornings, you can see the ridgeline of Tsaoling Rockslide and the whole landscape of Ruifeng Village.

As the sun rises, light spills over the mountains, gradually illuminating the entire town below—creating a powerful sense of watching the world wake up from above.

Another hidden advantage: this spot isn’t just for mornings. On clear nights, you can also enjoy panoramic views of Chiayi City’s night lights, making it perfect for a “night view + sunrise” itinerary.

👉🏻 What Makes the 1314 Viewing Platform Special

• One of the highest viewpoints in Meishan
• Simultaneous views of mountains, villages, and distant ridgelines
• Sunrise by day, city lights by night—one spot, two experiences

One Last Advice from RTR Editors: How to Truly Enjoy the Alishan Sunrise

🌄 Do You Have to Enter the Park to See the Alishan Sunrise? Not necessarily.

The Alishan sunrise is absolutely worth experiencing—but it shouldn’t leave you exhausted for the rest of the day. Many first-time planners assume they must enter the park and take the Zhushan Line, but after actually doing it, you’ll realize that beyond the crowded, time-pressured park routes, there are many excellent alternatives:

• Tea plantation sunrises
• Trail-based sunrises
• Hidden spots with open views outside the park

These options offer fewer crowds, a more relaxed pace, and are better suited for travelers who want to save energy for daytime activities.

👉🏻 RTR Editor’s honest advice:

• First-timers can experience Zhushan once
• If you value overall travel quality, seriously consider hidden sunrise spots

The true value of the Alishan sunrise goes far beyond a brief viewing period. It lies in how you plan your route, how you experience the sunrise, and how comfortably you continue with your day afterward. By allowing more time and choosing a well-paced itinerary, the Alishan sunrise becomes a meaningful travel experience that stays with you long after the moment has passed.