2025-07-08
Introduction to Alishan Sunrise
Alishan’s sunrise isn’t just a beautiful view—it’s a spiritual experience. Every morning, travelers gather in silence to witness the sun rising over misty mountains and ancient forests. As the golden light spills over the peaks, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of colors and clouds.
How to Reach the Sunrise Spot
The best place to see the sunrise is from Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform, which you can reach by riding the special Zhushan Line train. This early-morning ride departs before dawn from Alishan Station and climbs slowly through the dark forest, arriving just in time for the first light.
The train ride itself is quiet and scenic, building anticipation for what’s to come.
When to Wake Up & What to Bring
To catch the sunrise, most people wake up between 3:00 and 3:30 AM. The Alishan Forest Train usually departs around 4:00 to 4:30 in the morning, depending on the season. It’s best to check the exact sunrise time at your hotel or the Alishan Visitor Center the night before.
Make sure to wear warm layers, as Alishan’s high-altitude mornings can be chilly even in summer.
The Sea of Clouds Effect
On many mornings, the sunrise is accompanied by the incredible sea of clouds (雲海)—a thick blanket of mist that settles in the valleys, with only the mountaintops visible above. This adds a dreamlike atmosphere to the experience and makes the view even more surreal.
When it appears, it feels like you’re standing above the sky itself.
A Photographer’s Dream
Alishan’s sunrise is a paradise for photographers, offering rich contrasts, dramatic shadows, and golden lighting that changes every minute. Whether you’re using a DSLR or a smartphone, it’s nearly impossible to take a bad shot.
For the best results, arrive early to secure a spot at the front of the platform and bring a tripod if you want steady long exposures.
Why It’s Worth Waking Up Early
Waking up before dawn might not sound appealing on vacation, but this is one of those experiences that stays with you for a lifetime. The peace, the natural beauty, and the shared quiet of fellow travelers all make it feel special.
Even if you’re not a morning person, Alishan’s sunrise will make you glad you made the effort.
Photography Tips for Sunrise in Alishan
Alishan is a haven for photographers, both amateur and professional. Here’s how to capture it best:
Arrive early to secure the front row at the platform.
Use a wide-angle lens for dramatic sky and mountain layers.
A tripod helps with long exposures and low-light shots.
Try shooting in RAW format for better editing flexibility.
Don’t forget to take a few moments to just enjoy the view without the camera.
Is the Alishan Sunrise Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether it’s the golden glow over the peaks, the silence before dawn, or the chance to witness the sea of clouds, the Alishan sunrise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s worth the early wake-up, the chill, and even the crowds—because in the end, you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories (and stunning photos to prove it).
▼ Zhushan Train Station: The highest point of Taiwan Railways – 2451 meters above sea level
Alishan Map
Alishan Forest Map & Alishan Trail Map
Click the image to view full size
Alishan Sunrise Guide
In the early morning of Alishan, the sun shines through the gaps in the clouds. When the first ray of sunlight passed through the clouds and shone on the top of the mountain, the peak of Alishan gradually revealed its outline, painting the entire sea of clouds golden.
The scenery there is really hard to describe in words. This is a unique natural wonder of Alishan, combining the beauty of sunshine, mountains, sea of clouds and nature. In addition to watching the sunrise, you can also enjoy the sea of clouds, which brings us endless joy and announces the beginning of a new day.
A Moment That Touches the Sky
High in Taiwan’s central mountains, where ancient cypress forests whisper in the morning mist, a sunrise over Alishan isn’t just something you see — it’s something you feel. Known as one of the most breathtaking sunrise spots in Asia, the Alishan Sunrise has become a bucket-list experience for travelers, photographers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers alike.
As dawn approaches, the world begins to glow. The sky transforms from indigo to a canvas of soft pinks, fiery oranges, and radiant golds. Then, as the first sliver of sunlight breaks the horizon — often behind the silhouette of Yushan (Jade Mountain), Taiwan’s highest peak — the entire mountain range slowly illuminates, revealing mist-covered valleys and the iconic “sea of clouds” swirling below.
It’s a moment of silence, wonder, and awe, shared by those who rose early, rode the historic forest railway, and waited patiently in the cold morning air for nature’s most beautiful show.
The Best Time to View Sunrise
Alishan has a changeable climate, and each season has its own unique charm. No matter when you go, you can enjoy different scenery and colors. The sunrise time at Alishan varies with the season. The sunrise time in Alishan is around 05:00-07:00.
The best tourist season in Alishan is from October to March of the following year. Due to the influence of the northeast monsoon, it is easier to see sea of clouds and cloud waterfalls during this period.
What Time to Wake Up
Depending on the season, expect to wake up between 3:00 and 4:30 AM. If you’re taking the sunrise train, make sure you give yourself time to walk to the station, buy your ticket (if you didn’t buy it the day before), and find a seat.
If you prefer to hike instead of taking the train, plan on 50–80 minutes of walking uphill in the dark, so bring a flashlight or headlamp and watch your step.
How to determine whether I can see the sunrise in Alishan?
If you can clearly see the stars at 3 AM, it is usually weather suitable for sunrise.
What is the best time to watch sunrise?
The Best Time to Watch Sunrise (Especially in Places Like Alishan)
Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the official sunrise time. This is when the real magic begins, as the sky slowly lights up with soft colors and you experience a complete transition from night to day.
What is 30 minutes before sunrise?
“30 minutes before sunrise” refers to the time when the sky starts to lighten, also known as the beginning of civil twilight — it’s not fully bright yet, but the darkness is starting to fade.
This time is popular for photographers and sunrise chasers because the light is soft, golden, and often more dramatic than the sunrise itself. In places like Alishan Taiwan, 30 minutes before sunrise is when the “sea of clouds” and mountain silhouettes become beautifully visible.
Best Places to Watch The Sunrise
Due to the rotation of the earth, the famous Alishan sunrise can be seen at different locations and times throughout the year. Ogasawara (Xiaoliyuan) Mountain Observatory is the best place to watch the sunrise here.
You can also take the Zhushan Sunrise Train from Alishan Railway Station; or climb up the steps along the sunrise viewing trail in Zhaoping Park.
Alishan Sunrise Spot:
- Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout (Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck) (Recommend): After exiting the station, turn right and follow the crowd
- Zhushan Sunrise Observation Deck
- Duigaoyue Sunrise Viewing Platform
- Taigaoyue Observation Deck
- Bihushan Tea Garden
Accessible via the Alishan Forest Railway, this spot offers a panoramic view of the Central Mountain Range and is perfectly positioned to catch the sun rising over Yushan.
It’s Unforgettable. Watching the Alishan sunrise is more than just sightseeing – it’s a moment of stillness and clarity above the clouds. A natural spectacle that reminds you how beautiful and fleeting each day truly is.
How to catch the sunrise at Alishan?
If you want to go to Zhushan to watch the sunrise, you can
● Hike along the Sun Viewing Trail
● Take the Alishan Zhushan Line train.
● Take the Alishan Minibus.
You should first check the official website for the sunrise time and then buy Alishan train or bus tickets in advance.
Sunrise Time at Alishan
As sunrise time varies in different seasons and every day, the schedule of the Zhushan Sunrise Train is adjusted based on the sunrise time and number of passengers each day.
In summer, the first train departs at about 4:00 AM; and in winter, it will be rescheduled to 6:00 a.m. The actual departure time of the sunrise train on the next day will be posted on the website, Alishan railway station, and the visitor center around 16:00 PM each day.
⭕For reference only, please check Alishan official website before you go.
| Date | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-5 | 7:05 | 7:02 | 6:40 | 6:00 | 5:29 | 5:19 | 5:25 | 5:36 | 5:48 | 6:13 | 6:32 | 6:50 |
| 6-10 | 7:08 | 7:01 | 6:33 | 5:50 | 5:28 | 5:21 | 5:27 | 5:40 | 5:50 | 6:18 | 6:35 | 6:54 |
| 11-15 | 7:06 | 6:54 | 6:28 | 5:42 | 5:25 | 5:19 | 5:30 | 5:41 | 5:56 | 6:20 | 6:37 | 6:57 |
| 16-20 | 7:05 | 6:52 | 6:18 | 5:39 | 5:23 | 5:20 | 5:32 | 5:45 | 5:58 | 6:21 | 6:40 | 6:59 |
| 21-25 | 7:05 | 6:47 | 6:13 | 5:35 | 5:21 | 5:24 | 5:33 | 5:46 | 6:01 | 6:23 | 6:43 | 7:03 |
| 26-31 | 7:03 | 6:45 | 6:06 | 5:30 | 5:20 | 5:25 | 5:34 | 5:47 | 6:09 | 6:30 | 6:48 | 7:04 |
The train fare is NT$150 one way (subject to change).
▼ If you want to get a train seat, please be sure to queue up at the train station 40 minutes early. We arrived at the Alishan railway station at 3:30 a.m. and it was already crowded with passengers waiting in line. The first train departed for Zhushan at 4:10 a.m.
Book the Sunrise Train Tickets in Advance
If you’re taking the Alishan Forest Railway to Zhushan, they usually schedule trains to arrive about 30–40 minutes before sunrise, so visitors can get to the viewing platform in time.
You should first check the official website for the sunrise time and then buy tickets in advance. Train tickets can be booked online or on the second floor of Alishan Train Station between 1:00 pm and 4:30 pm the day before. I recommend buying your train tickets a day in advance as they can get sold out.
- The train takes about 25 minutes to arrive one way.
- Tickets can be purchased at Alishan Station from 13:00 to 16:00 the day before.
The Schedule of Alishan Zhushan Sunrise Train
The daily departure time is subject to change depending on the sunrise time and the number of tourists. You can check the website of the Alishan Forest Railway.
Alishan Zhushan Sunrise Train Schedule: English and Chinese
▼ After watching the sunrise, you can buy breakfast at the Zhushan Train Station.
Final Sunrise Tips
Check the sunrise time at your hotel or the visitor center the day before.
Book a hotel inside the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area so you don’t miss the early train.
If it’s cloudy, don’t give up—weather changes quickly, and some of the most beautiful sunrises appear just after a storm.
Avoid weekends and public holidays for a quieter experience.
The Five Wonders of Alishan
Alishan is famous for its “Five Wonders”:
The sunrise at Alishan is one of Taiwan’s most iconic natural sights, known for its dramatic lighting and breathtaking views across layers of misty mountains. As the sun rises behind Jade Mountain (Yushan), golden light slowly spills over the ridgelines, often illuminating a thick sea of clouds below, creating a dreamlike and almost spiritual atmosphere.
The best viewing spot is Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform, accessible by the early morning Zhushan Line train. Visitors are encouraged to arrive at the station early and dress warmly, as sunrise times vary with the season and temperatures are chilly before dawn.
Key Points:
Best seen from Zhushan, reachable via a special early-morning forest train
Peak viewing conditions are on cool, clear mornings—especially in spring and autumn
The “sea of clouds” is a mesmerizing natural phenomenon where thick mist fills the valleys, leaving only mountain peaks visible above—like islands floating on a vast white sea. In Alishan, this often appears just before or after sunrise and is considered one of the region’s most magical sights.
The conditions for the sea of clouds are best when cool air meets humid valleys, especially after rain. Excellent vantage points include Zhushan, Ciyun Temple, and Xianglin Trail, where early risers are rewarded with unforgettable views.
Key Points:
Most common after rain or in cooler seasons, especially in early morning
Great photo opportunities from higher ridges and trails in the park
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
While sunrise gets most of the attention, Alishan’s sunsets are just as beautiful—offering warm, golden hues that fall gently over the forest canopy and mountain ridges. As the sun dips below the horizon, the clouds and mist catch the light, turning pink, orange, and purple.
Popular spots for sunset include Alishan Hotel’s observation deck, Ciyun Temple, and Sister Ponds. The calm, fading light gives a peaceful end to a day of hiking and exploring, and the park becomes quieter as the crowds thin out.
Key Points:
Best seen from west-facing spots like Ciyun Temple or Alishan Hotel terrace
Golden hour lighting makes for beautiful landscape photos and peaceful walks
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
Alishan is famous for its ancient, misty forests filled with towering cypress and red pine trees—some over 1,000 years old. Walking the well-maintained trails here, like the Giant Tree Trail or Sacred Tree Trail, immerses visitors in the tranquility and grandeur of high-mountain nature.
The cool air, moss-covered roots, and soft forest floor create a deeply calming atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll find wooden walkways, small temples, and informative signs that enhance the experience without disrupting the environment.
Key Points:
Home to centuries-old trees, including Taiwan’s legendary Sacred Tree
Family-friendly trails make forest exploration accessible to all ages
The Alishan Forest Railway is a historic narrow-gauge train that winds through Taiwan’s mountains from Chiayi up to Alishan, rising over 2,000 meters in elevation. Built during the Japanese era for logging, it’s now one of Asia’s most scenic and nostalgic rail experiences.
Today, the railway includes branch lines such as Zhushan (sunrise), Shenmu (Sacred Tree), and Zhaoping, each offering access to key viewpoints and trails. The ride features wooden carriages, dramatic turns, tunnels, and switchbacks, making the journey part of the Alishan adventure.
Key Points:
UNESCO-listed railway, rich in history and mountain views
Connects scenic spots within the park like Zhushan and Zhaoping with ease
The Best Time to Visit
Alishan Average Temperature by Month
According to the statistics of rainfall days in Alishan, the best tourist season in Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is from October to March of the following year. Due to the influence of the northeast monsoon, it is easier to see sea of clouds and cloud waterfalls during this period.
The Alishan area is surrounded by mountains, with a cool climate, high humidity and abundant rainfall. The rainy season is from April to September, and the dry season is from October to March of the following year. In addition, dense fog occurs from time to time, so you need to be extra careful when traveling.
Alishan Weather and Seasons – A Year-Round Guide
Alishan is about 2,200 (7,200 ft) meters above sea level. Alishan has a cool, temperate mountain climate — a peaceful escape from Taiwan’s humid lowlands. Here’s a detailed introduction to Alishan’s four seasons and temperatures, so you’ll know exactly what to expect (and pack) when visiting.
Spring (March – May)
Average Temperature: 5°C – 20°C (41°F – 68°F)
Weather: Mild days, chilly mornings & evenings. Occasional mist or light rain.
Highlights:
- Cherry blossoms (mid to late March) – one of the biggest attractions
- Lush forests waking up from winter
- Sunrise and “sea of clouds” views are often stunning
What to Pack:
- Light jacket or fleece for daytime
- Warm layers (like a hoodie or puffer) for early mornings and nights
Summer (June – August)
Average Temperature: 12°C – 24°C (54°F – 75°F)
Weather: Cool and comfortable, but can be humid. Frequent afternoon fog or rain, especially in July/August.
Highlights:
- Perfect for escaping Taiwan’s city heat
- Lush green landscapes and hiking trails
- Misty, mysterious forest vibes in the late afternoon
What to Pack:
- Light layers, breathable clothes
- Rain gear (umbrella or light rain jacket)
- A light jacket for night, especially after rain
Autumn (September – November)
Average Temperature: 7°C – 20°C (45°F – 68°F)
Weather: Clear, dry, and pleasantly cool. Probably the best weather of the year.
Highlights:
- Maple leaves turning red and gold (late Oct to Nov)
- Crisp air, less fog, clearer views for sunrise and cloud sea
- Great for photography, hiking, and peaceful walks
What to Pack:
- Medium jacket, long sleeves
- Scarf or extra layer for chilly evenings
- Good walking shoes – this is prime hiking season
Winter (December – February)
Average Temperature: 1°C – 15°C (33°F – 59°F)
Weather: Cold, especially at night. Rare snow, but frost and icy mornings are common.
Highlights:
- Serene and peaceful — fewer crowds
- If it snows, Alishan becomes a quiet, snow-dusted fairytale
- Beautiful sunrises over crisp, frosty forests
What to Pack:
- Warm jacket or coat (puffer, down, etc.)
- Gloves, scarf, hat
- Layers – it can warm up slightly mid-day
Bonus Tip
The temperature on the mountain is relatively low in the early morning, so please prepare warm clothes.
Even in summer, early mornings (especially if you’re catching the sunrise at Zhushan) can be below 10°C (50°F). So always pack layers, no matter the season.
▼ The photo was taken at Zhushan Station. The train on the left is from Alishan to Zhushan. The train on the right is from Chiayi to Alishan(Zhushan)
Where is the most best and beautiful place to watch a sunrise?
Alishan, Taiwan
Why it’s special: Layers of mountains + the legendary “sea of clouds” + forested landscape = surreal.
Best spot: Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform – reachable via a charming forest train.
Time tip: Get there 30–40 minutes early and bundle up — mornings are chilly.
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