July 10, 2025
Introduction to Alishan Sunrise
The sunrise at Alishan is one of the most iconic natural sights in Taiwan, drawing thousands of visitors each year. What makes it so special is the combination of golden light, layered mountain silhouettes, and the chance to see the legendary “sea of clouds” stretching across the valleys.
It’s not just a sunrise—it’s a deeply serene and awe-inspiring moment.
How to Get to the Sunrise Viewing Point
Most travelers head to Zhushan (祝山) Viewing Platform, the best-known spot to watch the sunrise in Alishan. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the Zhushan Line train, which runs before dawn from Alishan Station.
Make sure to check the exact departure time the night before—it changes daily based on the sunrise time.
What Time to Wake Up
To catch the full experience, you’ll need to wake up early. The Alishan Forest Train usually departs around 4:00 to 4:30 in the morning, depending on the season. It’s a good idea to check the sunrise forecast at your hotel or the visitor center the evening before.
Dress warmly, as temperatures at high altitudes can be chilly, even in summer.
What You’ll See at Sunrise
As the sun begins to rise, the sky turns from deep blue to fiery orange and pink, lighting up the layers of mountains stretching out toward Yushan (Jade Mountain). On the best mornings, a sea of clouds (雲海) blankets the lower valleys, with only the peaks emerging like islands in the mist.
It’s a dreamlike landscape that leaves a lasting impression—and countless photo opportunities.
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.
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).
After Sunrise: What to Do Next
Once the sun is up, many visitors return via the train or walk down through the Zhushan Trail, which offers more beautiful views and ancient forest paths. This is also a great time to grab a warm drink or breakfast back near Alishan Station.
Some cafés and food stalls start opening just after sunrise, serving tea, coffee, and traditional snacks.
Tips for the Best Sunrise Experience
Arrive at the station early to ensure a seat on the sunrise train, especially during weekends or holidays. Bring a flashlight or phone light if you’re walking before dawn, and don’t forget a jacket and camera.
Most importantly—slow down, breathe in the cool mountain air, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Alishan at its most magical hour.
▼ Zhushan Train Station: The highest point of Taiwan Railways – 2451 meters above sea level
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.
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”:
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)
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.
Mount Fuji (Chureito Pagoda), Japan
Grand Canyon, USA4. Borobudur Temple, Indonesia
Borobudur Temple, Indonesia
Haleakalā Volcano, Maui, Hawaii
Bagan, Myanmar
Taj Mahal, India
Uluru (Ayers Rock), Australia
Angkor Wat, Cambodia