July 10, 2025
Introduction to Alishan Sunset
Alishan is famous for its sunrise and sea of clouds, but what often goes unnoticed is its equally stunning sunset. As day turns to dusk, the mountains are bathed in golden light, and the landscape softens under warm hues of orange, red, and purple.
If you’re looking for a quieter, more contemplative moment in Alishan, sunset offers a magical and less crowded alternative to the early-morning sunrise ritual.
A Mountain Stage for Nature’s Final Act
Perched over 2,000 meters above sea level, Alishan’s high elevation and layered topography provide the perfect setting for a dramatic sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, light dances over the mountain ridgelines, casting long shadows and illuminating the cloud layers in glowing streaks.
The result is a vast, shifting panorama that feels like watching a live painting evolve in real time.
A Quieter, More Intimate Experience
While throngs of early risers make their way to the Zhushan platform to witness Alishan’s famed sunrise—often jostling for a good vantage point in the predawn chill—those who prefer a quieter, more reflective experience head to the Eryanping Trail at day’s end.
As the sun dips low behind layers of tea plantations and rolling hills, the trail offers a serene escape. The golden light filters through the mist, casting long shadows over the landscape, and with far fewer people around, visitors can soak in the sunset in near solitude, accompanied only by the rustle of leaves and distant birdcalls.
Whether you’re at a scenic lookout or a quiet temple platform, you’ll often share the view with only a handful of people—or have it all to yourself. This peace and quiet make Alishan’s sunset the perfect time for reflection, journaling, or simply being still in nature.
A Peaceful End to a Mountain Day
After a day of forest walks, scenic train rides, and perhaps a sunrise hike, ending your Alishan adventure with a sunset offers the perfect balance. There’s something grounding about watching the light fade slowly over the mountains—no rush, no pressure, just stillness.
As the sky deepens into twilight and the stars begin to emerge, Alishan reminds you of the beauty in slowing down. In a world that’s always rushing forward, sunset at Alishan invites you to pause and be fully present.
Where to Watch the Sunset in Alishan
Alishan offers several incredible sunset spots. The Eryanping Trail is beloved for its tea fields and layered views; Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout offers one of the best panoramic vistas with few crowds; Ciyun Temple Observation Deck pairs cultural charm with a wide-open sky; Erjianshan Trail rewards a short hike with elevated views; and the 89.5KM marker on Provincial Highway 18 offers stunning roadside scenery with zero hiking required.
Each location adds its own flavor to the sunset experience.
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
Best Time and Season for Viewing
Sunset time in Alishan typically falls between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM, varying slightly by season. The best viewing seasons are from October to February, when the skies are clearer and the air is crisp. Be sure to arrive 30–45 minutes early to catch the shifting colors and set up your camera.
Don’t forget to bring warm clothing—it cools down quickly once the sun dips behind the mountains.
A Moment That Stays With You
There’s something quietly profound about watching the sun set from a mountaintop. In Alishan, it’s not just a visual spectacle—it’s a moment of calm and wonder that stays with you long after you leave.
Whether you’re capturing it with a camera or simply soaking it in, the Alishan sunset is an invitation to pause, breathe, and appreciate the fleeting beauty of the day’s final light.
Alishan Sunset Guide
This is nature’s masterpiece at night in Alishan. As the sun begins its descent over the ancient peaks of Alishan, the forest breathes in golden light, and the world slows to a hush.
Chasing the Sunset in Alishan
When people think of Alishan, their minds often go straight to the famous sunrise or the mystical sea of clouds—but what many travelers don’t realize is that Alishan sunsets are equally mesmerizing, and sometimes even more peaceful.
As the day winds down, the sky over Alishan transforms into a canvas of rich oranges, purples, and pinks, casting a soft glow over the mountains, forests, and ancient railway tracks.
If you’re planning a visit to this legendary Taiwanese destination, make sure you don’t leave without experiencing a sunset that feels like something out of a dream.
Why Alishan’s Sunset is Special
Set at over 2,000 meters above sea level, Alishan offers panoramic views of Taiwan’s central mountain range. As the sun dips behind the distant peaks, the light plays beautifully against the layered ridgelines, creating silhouettes and shadows that shift by the second.
The high elevation means the air is crisp and clean, and the scenery seems to stretch endlessly, making sunset here feel wide, open, and breathtakingly serene. Unlike the more crowded sunrise viewings, sunsets in Alishan tend to be quieter and more personal—giving you space to reflect, breathe, and simply take it all in.
Unlike bustling cities, sunsets in Alishan are accompanied by the whispers of nature — wind in the trees, distant bird calls, and quiet awe from a small group of lucky viewers.
When to Go and What to Expect
Aim to arrive at your sunset viewpoint 30–45 minutes before sundown to secure a good spot and watch the gradual transformation of the sky.
It gets chilly quickly after the sun disappears, so dress warmly, especially in fall and winter. And bring a flashlight or phone light for the walk back—most trails are not lit at night.
■ Arrive 30–45 minutes before the official sunset time.
■ Best lighting for photos – Soft, diffused light = no harsh shadows.
■ Vibrant colors in the sky – Especially in mountain.
■ That’s when the magic starts — the sky begins to glow with soft hues of gold, pink, orange, and lavender.
■ This period is often called the “Golden Hour” or “Magic Hour.”
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
The Best Time to View Sunset
The best time to view the sunset in Alishan is typically between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM, depending on the season. Sunset times shift slightly throughout the year, so it’s a good idea to check the exact time on a weather or astronomy app the day of your visit.
For the best experience, plan to arrive at your chosen viewpoint at least 30–45 minutes before sunset. This gives you time to settle in, find a good spot, and watch the sky slowly change colors. Some of the most magical moments actually happen before the sun disappears—when golden light floods the landscape and clouds take on vibrant hues.
When the view is good, you can see Yushan from the Ogasawara Observation Deck.
It is recommended to go to popular sunrise viewing spots early to get a good position.
Best Seasons:
Autumn (October–November): Clear skies, crisp air, and high visibility
Winter (December–February): Fewer crowds, dramatic colors, and lower humidity
Best Spot to View the Sunset
Eryanping Trail
The Eryanping Trail is one of the most beloved spots for sunset viewing near Alishan. Located between Alishan and Fenqihu, this gentle trail winds through bamboo forests and tea fields before opening up to expansive views of the mountains and valley below. As the sun sets, the sky turns brilliant shades of orange and pink, and the layers of ridges stretch endlessly into the horizon.
Key Points:
Easily accessible and suitable for beginners
Offers panoramic views of mountain ridgelines at sunset
Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout (Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck)
A hidden gem with fewer tourists, the Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck provides one of the most stunning and quiet sunset experiences in Alishan. It’s a short hike from the Alishan House area, and from the top, you get sweeping views of the mountains and the sea of clouds when conditions are right. The viewpoint faces west, making it perfect for sunset watching in peace.
Key Points:
Less crowded, ideal for quiet reflection and photos
Clear line of sight over Alishan’s peaks and valleys
Ciyun Temple Observation Deck
Located next to the scenic Ciyun Temple, this observation deck offers a unique mix of cultural atmosphere and natural beauty. With a view overlooking the western slopes, the sunset here feels serene, casting golden light over temple rooftops and surrounding hills. It’s a great place to blend a spiritual visit with a peaceful end to your day.
Key Points:
Combines religious and scenic beauty
Easily accessible with minimal walking
Erjianshan Trail
The Erjianshan Trail is a lesser-known route that offers a short but rewarding hike to a fantastic sunset spot. As you ascend, you’ll pass through cypress forests before reaching a lookout with uninterrupted views of the setting sun behind the mountains. This trail is a favorite among locals who want a quiet, elevated spot away from the crowds.
Key Points:
Short hike with rewarding sunset views
Quiet, off-the-beaten-path location
Provincial Highway 18 – 89.5KM Marker
Right along Provincial Highway 18, the 89.5KM marker (台18線89.5K觀景點) is an unexpected but incredible roadside stop for sunset lovers. With a wide-open west-facing view, it’s a favorite for photographers and drivers making their way up or down from Alishan. No hiking required—just park, wait, and watch the sky turn gold.
Key Points:
Roadside access, no hiking necessary
Ideal for quick stops and spontaneous sunset moments
▼ Alishan Highway 18 – 89.5k Observation Deck (Google Map)
Whether you’re an early bird or a sunset seeker, Alishan has something for you. And if you’re lucky enough to witness both sunrise and sunset on the same trip, you’ll walk away feeling like you’ve touched the sky—twice.
The Five Wonders of Alishan
Alishan is famous for its “Five Wonders”:
Watching the sunrise in Alishan is a must-do experience that draws visitors from across Taiwan and beyond. The sight of the sun emerging slowly behind Yushan (Jade Mountain), casting golden light over the peaks and valleys, is both awe-inspiring and peaceful. It’s not just about catching the sunrise—it’s about experiencing the energy of the mountains waking up.
The most popular place to witness this event is the Zhushan Viewing Platform, which you can reach via a special early-morning forest train. Visitors often wake before 4 a.m. to catch the train in time, bundled up against the pre-dawn chill, and stand in quiet anticipation as the first light appears.
The combination of clean mountain air, the dramatic shift of colors in the sky, and the occasional appearance of the sea of clouds makes this moment truly magical. It’s one of the rare places in the world where the natural setting transforms the simple act of watching the sunrise into something deeply memorable.
Key Points:
Best viewed from Zhushan Viewing Platform, accessed via the pre-dawn train
Most impressive from October to March, when visibility is highest
The “sea of clouds” (雲海) is one of Alishan’s most enchanting natural wonders, often seen right before or after sunrise. It occurs when moist air from the valleys condenses and forms a thick blanket of clouds below the mountain peaks. From above, it looks like the mountains are floating on a vast white ocean.
Several viewpoints in Alishan offer a clear look at this phenomenon, with Zhushan, Ciyun Temple, and the Xianglin Trail being among the best. It often appears after rainy or humid nights, especially in spring and autumn when the temperature contrast between valley and mountaintop is greatest.
The sea of clouds adds an ethereal quality to the sunrise experience, and even if you miss the sunrise, seeing the clouds drift and shift between the peaks is a spectacle on its own. It’s a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike.
Key Points:
Most likely to appear after rain or on humid, cool mornings
Best viewed from higher trails and ridgelines, like Zhushan or Ciyun Temple
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
While sunrise steals the spotlight, Alishan’s sunset is a hidden gem that offers a quieter, equally beautiful experience. As the day ends, golden light spreads across the forest canopy and distant hills, gradually fading into deep purples and reds. With fewer crowds and a calm, peaceful atmosphere, sunset in Alishan is a perfect moment of reflection.
One of the best places to catch the sunset is Ciyun Temple, which faces west and provides an unobstructed view of the horizon. Alishan House’s observation deck also offers excellent sunset views, especially when paired with a cup of high-mountain tea or coffee.
As the light softens and shadows lengthen, the forest seems to breathe more deeply. Birdsong fades, the air cools, and the clouds often reflect the colors of the sky, turning the end of the day into a quietly dramatic scene.
Key Points:
Best sunset views from Ciyun Temple or Alishan House deck
Ideal time for peaceful walks and golden-hour photography
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
The Alishan Forest is a mystical place filled with towering cypress and red pine trees, some more than a thousand years old. Dense, cool, and often wrapped in mist, the forest feels like a place suspended in time. It’s easy to see why it’s considered one of Alishan’s five natural treasures.
Several trails wind through this ancient woodland, including the Sacred Tree Trail and Giant Tree Trail, both of which are easy to follow and offer up-close views of these enormous trees. Along the way, you’ll pass wooden walkways, serene temples, and interpretive signs that share the forest’s history and cultural significance.
Walking here is not just a nature experience—it’s spiritual. The stillness, filtered light, and scent of old wood create a calming atmosphere, ideal for mindful strolling or quiet reflection.
Key Points:
Features 1,000+ year-old cypress trees, including the famous Sacred Tree
Easy-to-walk forest trails suitable for families and casual hikers
The Alishan Forest Railway is more than just a mode of transport—it’s a journey through history, nature, and engineering. Built during the Japanese colonial period for logging, it now serves as a scenic route for visitors, climbing from Chiayi to Alishan Station through switchbacks, tunnels, and mountain forests.
The main line is a marvel in itself, but several branch lines like Zhushan (sunrise line), Shenmu (Sacred Tree line), and Zhaoping allow visitors to reach key viewing spots and hiking areas. The trains feature nostalgic wooden interiors and large windows that showcase the changing scenery at every turn.
Riding the railway is a gentle, immersive way to explore Alishan. Whether you’re using it to reach a sunrise spot or simply to enjoy the ride, it’s one of the most memorable parts of any Alishan adventure.
Key Points:
Historic mountain railway with scenic routes and nostalgic charm
Branch lines connect visitors to sunrise points, forests, and cherry blossom areas
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)
