July 9, 2025
Introduction to Alishan Sea of Clouds
Perched over 2,000 meters above sea level, Alishan is one of Taiwan’s most beloved highland destinations—and home to the breathtaking sea of clouds.
Nestled in the heart of central Taiwan, Alishan is home to one of the island’s most breathtaking natural wonders—the sea of clouds. This atmospheric phenomenon, where thick layers of cloud blanket the valleys below the mountain peaks, transforms the landscape into a dreamlike ocean of white. For travelers looking to connect with nature in its most poetic form, the Alishan sea of clouds is a must-see experience that defies description.
Alishan: More Than a Forest
While Alishan is well known for its ancient cypress trees, highland tea plantations, and scenic railway, it’s the mystical sea of clouds that adds a truly magical layer to the region. Rising over 2,000 meters above sea level, Alishan offers ideal conditions for this phenomenon, particularly during sunrise when the cool mountain air creates the perfect canvas for cloud formation.
The Zhushan Sunrise Experience
The best way to witness the sea of clouds is by visiting the Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform (Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck), one of Alishan’s most iconic spots. To get there, travelers board the early-morning Zhushan Line train, which climbs quietly through the misty forest before delivering passengers to the top. As the first light of dawn breaks over the horizon, the view is nothing short of otherworldly—waves of clouds rolling beneath a golden sky.
Best Times and Weather Tips
Timing is everything when chasing the sea of clouds. The best viewing seasons are typically October through March, when the temperature difference between day and night is most pronounced. Clear skies and early mornings are key—try to arrive at the viewing platform at least 30 minutes before sunrise. Although nature can be unpredictable, even a partially cloudy morning can create an equally dramatic and memorable scene.
Why Alishan?
Alishan is one of the most famous destinations in Taiwan for witnessing this natural wonder, and for good reason. Sitting at an altitude of around 2,200 meters, the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area offers the perfect vantage points, stable climate, and atmospheric conditions that make the sea of clouds a regular occurrence—especially in the early morning hours.
But the best part? You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to see it. Alishan is remarkably accessible, with well-maintained roads, cozy mountain lodges, and even a historic mountain railway that will take you right to where the magic happens.
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
All Aboard to Zhushan: Sunrise + Sea of Clouds
Two Dreams in One Place. Visiting Zhushan in Alishan is like granting yourself two wishes at once—the wonder of a glowing sunrise, and the mystery of the drifting sea of clouds. This experience captures the soul of Alishan and leaves a lasting impression that’s hard to put into words.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or on a romantic getaway, the journey to Alishan’s sunrise viewpoint is one of Taiwan’s most unforgettable adventures. And once you’ve seen the sun rise above a sea of clouds—you’ll never look at mornings the same way again.
Alishan Map
Alishan Forest Map & Alishan Trail Map
Click the image to view full size
Alishan Sea of Clouds Guide
Catch One of Taiwan’s Most Magical Natural Wonders
The “sea of clouds” in Alishan is one of Taiwan’s most magical natural wonders, and Zhushan Sunrise Viewpoint (Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout) is the place to catch both the breathtaking sunrise and the majestic sea of clouds—two unforgettable sights in one go.
A Heavenly Ocean Above the Mountains
Rising high above the valleys of central Taiwan, Alishan is famous for more than just its sacred forests and sunrise views — it’s home to the mystical and mesmerizing Sea of Clouds.
Imagine standing on a quiet mountain ridge as thick, soft clouds flow through the valleys below, resembling a gentle ocean of mist. As sunlight pours in from the east or fades into the west, the clouds shift in color — from silver to gold to blush pink — creating a surreal, ever-changing scene that feels like it belongs in a dream.
What Is the Sea of Clouds?
It’s a natural phenomenon that occurs when low-lying clouds form in mountain valleys, while the peaks rise above, giving the illusion of islands floating in a vast white sea. In Alishan, due to its high elevation (over 2,000 meters) and ideal climate, this happens frequently — especially at dawn or after rainfall.
In Alishan, this view often appears at sunrise or sunset when weather conditions are just right. It’s one of the five famous natural wonders of Alishan and a highlight for many travelers.
It’s Unforgettable. The Sea of Clouds isn’t just a visual spectacle — it’s an emotional experience. You’re standing above the world, watching clouds drift and dance silently below you, feeling like time itself has paused. For many visitors, it becomes the highlight of their entire Taiwan trip — a moment of pure, natural wonder.
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
The Best Time to View Sea of Clouds
The best time to view the sea of clouds is early morning and dusk. From November to April of the following year, it is easy to see the sea of clouds due to the influence of the northeast monsoon.
Ideal Weather: Clear skies above, humid or misty conditions below – often after rain
Best Time of Day: Just before and after sunrise or sunset for a dramatic golden glow.
Best Seasons: Autumn (Oct–Dec): Cooler mornings and clear skies increase chances. Winter & early spring (Jan–Mar): Crisp mountain air makes conditions ideal.
Sea of clouds is a weather-dependent phenomenon, so there are no guarantees—but cold, clear mornings after rainy nights tend to be the most promising.
The Best Time to View Cloud Waterfalls
Cloud waterfalls usually appear at the leading edge of a front, when the weather changes dramatically, or when the airflow in mountainous areas is unstable, such as on the eve of a typhoon or when a front arrives.
Best spot to view the Cloud Waterfalls
- Eryanping Trail
- Taiping Suspension Bridge
Best Spot to View the Sea of Slouds
Xiding Eryanping Trail
The Eryanping Trail in Xiding is a short, scenic ridge walk known for its spectacular sunset and sea of clouds views. Located between Chiayi and Alishan, it’s a popular stop for sunset and sea of clouds.
With its gentle slope and panoramic landscape, this trail is a favorite among photographers and those seeking a peaceful start to their Alishan journey. What makes Eryanping special is the way it combines natural beauty with sunset and sea of clouds. It’s an ideal stop if you’re driving to Alishan from Chiayi or Fenqihu.
Key Points:
Best for sunset and sea of clouds with Mountain views
Easy to access when driving from Chiayi to Alishan
▼ Eryanping Trail in Xiding
Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout (Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck)
A short forest trail leads to this stunning viewpoint, located near Ciyun Temple and Alishan House. The Ogasawara Lookout is perfect for catching sweeping views of the Central Mountain Range without the crowds of more touristy spots.
Often praised as a quiet alternative for sunrise or sunset, this viewpoint offers tranquility, a wide horizon, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s especially magical when mist and cloud layers drift between mountain ridges.
Key Points:
Ideal for sunset and peaceful panoramic views
Accessible by walking from Alishan House or Ciyun Temple
Taiping Suspension Bridge
Located in Meishan Township, the Taiping Suspension Bridge (Taiping Cloud Ladder) is Taiwan’s longest and highest scenic suspension bridge. Stretching across a mountain ridge, it offers thrilling views of tea terraces, deep valleys, and drifting cloud seas below.
Come in the early morning to see a dramatic blanket of clouds surrounding the hills, especially in cooler months. It’s a great side trip from Chiayi and pairs well with a visit to Taiping Old Street for local eats.
Key Points:
Long scenic suspension bridge with epic mountain views
Best visited in the morning for sea of clouds
Zhushan Sunrise Platform
Zhushan is the most iconic sunrise spot in Alishan, offering views of Taiwan’s tallest peak, Yushan, and the golden light rising over a sea of clouds. Visitors reach it by taking the early morning Zhushan Line train, which is an experience in itself.
Expect stunning color changes in the sky, and if conditions are right, you may even witness the rare “sunray halo” or “Buddha’s light.” It’s a must-do for first-time visitors and a photographer’s dream.
Key Points:
Most popular and iconic sunrise viewing platform
Accessible by train; best for cloud sea and sunray effect
Xianglin Observation Deck
Located near Shouzhen Temple within the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, this small observation deck offers a quiet viewpoint over forested hills. It’s an easy walk from the Giant Tree Trail or temple paths and often overlooked by large crowds.
Perfect for a relaxed moment, Xianglin is great for soft morning light or gentle sunsets. It’s especially photogenic when fog drifts through the trees, creating an ethereal mountain scene.
Key Points:
Quiet and peaceful viewpoint near Shouzhen Temple
Great for foggy morning or sunset views without crowds
Ciyun Temple Observation Deck
Next to Ciyun Temple and close to Alishan House, this peaceful platform offers wide views of nearby peaks and valleys. It’s a lesser-known sunrise spot and a quiet alternative to the busy Zhushan area.
The spiritual ambiance of the temple and the occasional mist rolling through create a serene, meditative vibe. It’s also the starting point for the Ogasawara Trail if you want a short hike with views.
Key Points:
Calm, spiritual setting with scenic views
Good alternative sunrise point near Alishan House
Catch the Sea of Clouds and Sunrise at Zhushan, Alishan
If you don’t have time to go to the Eryanping Trail in Xiding, you can go to the Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout (Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck) to watch the sunrise and the sea of clouds. If you are lucky enough, your wish to see the sea of clouds and the sunrise will come true at the same time in Alishan Zhushan.
Sea of clouds is a weather-dependent phenomenon, so there are no guarantees—but cold, clear mornings after rainy nights tend to be the most promising.
1. Plan Your Visit
Best Time of Year: October to March offers cooler temperatures and higher chances of seeing the sea of clouds due to greater temperature differences between day and night.
Best Time of Day: Sunrise (around 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM, depending on the season). The sea of clouds is most prominent during early morning before the sun evaporates the mist.
2. Stay Overnight in Alishan
Stay at a hotel or guesthouse within Alishan National Forest Recreation Area to be close to the action.
Book in advance, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom season (March–April) and weekends.
3. Ride the Alishan Forest Railway (Zhushan Line)
Take the early morning train from Alishan Station to Zhushan Station.
Tickets sell out quickly—book the day before at the Alishan Railway Station.
The ride is short (about 25 minutes), but unforgettable—winding through ancient cypress forests as dawn breaks.
▼ Zhushan Train Station: The highest point of Taiwan Railways – 2451 meters above sea level
4. Watch the Sunrise and Sea of Clouds at Zhushan
From Zhushan Station, follow the short trail to the Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout (Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck).
The sea of clouds usually rolls across the valleys below like ocean waves, with Yushan (Jade Mountain) often visible in the distance.
Tips for First-Timers
Book your train ticket early: Tickets for the sunrise train can be bought the day before at Alishan Station. They often sell out during weekends and holidays.
Dress in layers: It’s cold in the mountains before dawn—even in summer. Bring a jacket and maybe even gloves.
Bring a flashlight or use your phone light: Trails to the viewpoint can be dimly lit.
Charge your camera/phone: You’ll want to capture every moment.
Be patient and present: The clouds may shift and change by the minute—just being there is part of the magic.
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)
