How to get from Taipei to Alishan

Getting from Taipei to Alishan is a beautiful but multi-leg journey via Chiayi, and the best route depends on whether you prioritize speed, cost, or riding the famous Alishan Forest Railway.

At A Glance (Taipei to Alishan)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚄🚌 HSR (Taipei → Chiayi) + Bus to Alishan	~3.5–4.5h total (train + bus)	Most travelers, fast & straightforward
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 1,300–1,600 one-way (adult) » compare Taipei–Chiayi trains | THSR one-way from Taipei
🚄🚂 Train via Chiayi + Alishan Forest Railway	~5–7h total (connection-dependent)	Scenic travel, train enthusiasts
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 1,200–2,000 one-way » reserve forest railway | route overview
🚌 Guided Tour / Package from Taipei	~12–36h round trip (1–3 day tours)	Hassle-free, first-time visitors
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 2,500–8,000+ per person » Alishan tours | Trip.com tickets & deals
🚗 Self-Drive / Private Transfer	~5–6h driving (traffic & stops dependent)	Maximum flexibility, small groups
🏷️ Cost: Car hire from ~TWD 2,000–3,500/day + fuel » compare car rentals | check private transfers

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / most convenient overall: For most visitors, HSR to Chiayi + Bus (Option #1) is the best balance of speed, comfort and price. You ride the high-speed rail from Taipei, then connect to the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus straight up to Alishan.
• Most scenic & memorable: If you love trains and don’t mind a longer journey, Train via Chiayi + Alishan Forest Railway (Option #2) lets you ride the historic narrow-gauge railway through forests and cloud seas.
• Least planning required: Choose Guided Tours / Packages (Option #3) when you want hotels, transport and guiding bundled together, or if you’re traveling with family and prefer everything pre-arranged.
• Most flexible for side trips: Confident drivers who want to combine Alishan with other stops like Sun Moon Lake or the southwest coast often pick Self-Drive / Private Transfer (Option #4).
• Budget-conscious travelers: Swapping THSR for regular Taiwan Railways (TRA) trains to Chiayi, then taking the bus can reduce costs while still following similar routes to Options #1 and #2.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Reserve rail tickets in advance on busy dates. For weekends, holidays, and cherry blossom season, pre-book THSR or TRA tickets via the official Taiwan Railways booking site or Taiwan High Speed Rail, or use passes and vouchers from platforms like Klook THSR one-way tickets.
• Use combo passes for good value. Klook frequently offers bundles combining THSR and Taiwan Tourist Shuttle buses, making Taipei → Chiayi → Alishan planning easier. Compare with standalone tickets on sites like 12Go for Taipei–Chiayi trains.
• Book Alishan Forest Railway seats ahead. Seats are limited and popular; reserve online via the official Alishan Forest Railway booking system, especially if you want the full main line or sunrise runs.
• Check bus times from Chiayi to Alishan. Buses 7322 and 7329 on the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle – Alishan Route run several times daily; check latest schedules through the official Alishan “Getting Here” page or the shuttle information via Alishan National Scenic Area transport guide.
• Stay at least one night on the mountain. To catch the famed Alishan sunrise and avoid rushing, plan 1–2 nights near the recreation area. Browse stays in the area on Booking.com Alishan Township hotels.
• Store big luggage in Taipei or Chiayi. Travel lighter up the mountain by leaving suitcases at your hotel or using left-luggage services; you can also check dedicated options like Radical Storage in Taipei if you’re between accommodations.
• Download offline maps and bus info. Signal can be patchy in the mountains. Save Google Maps for Taipei, Chiayi, and Alishan plus screenshots of bus timetables or the 7322/7329 schedule before traveling.
• Use ride-hailing within cities, not for the whole route. Apps like Uber and Taiwan Taxi are handy for getting to and from Taipei Main Station or Chiayi stations. For long-distance mountain travel, stick to trains, buses, or private transfers booked through services like GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups Taipei.
• Pack for rapidly changing weather. Even if Taipei is warm, Alishan can be cold and foggy. Layers, a waterproof jacket, and good walking shoes will make sunrise and forest walks more comfortable.

🚄🚌 Option #1 — HSR to Chiayi + Bus to Alishan (Most Popular, Good Value)

Fast but affordable Frequent departures Requires transfers

• Overview: Take the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) from Taipei Main Station to Chiayi HSR Station, then connect to the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle or Chiayi County bus up the mountain to Alishan. Total travel time is usually around 3.5–4.5 hours, depending on connections and traffic on the mountain road.
• Tickets & approximate prices: A standard adult THSR ticket from Taipei to Chiayi is roughly TWD 1,000–1,200, and the bus from Chiayi (HSR or TRA station) to Alishan is typically around TWD 260–350, giving a total of about TWD 1,300–1,600 one-way.
• How to book: Buy THSR tickets on the official Taiwan High Speed Rail website or in advance with discount codes via Klook THSR one-way from Taipei. For the mountain bus, you can check and pre-reserve Taiwan Tourist Shuttle routes 7329/7322 from Chiayi via the official Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Alishan route page or booking portals such as 7329 Alishan Route (from HSR).
• Pros: Quickest comfortable option from Taipei; very frequent trains; simple transfer at Chiayi; clear signage for Alishan buses; easy to plan around bus timetables.
• Cons: Requires at least one transfer (train → bus); buses can be crowded on weekends and holidays; mountain roads are winding, so motion sickness is possible.
• Good to know: If your THSR train stops at Chiayi, you can board the 7329 bus to Alishan right at the HSR station. Alternatively, take a free/cheap shuttle into the city and use the 7322 bus from Chiayi TRA Station. The official Alishan “Getting Here” guide at the Alishan National Scenic Area site summarizes these options and links to current bus info.
• Alternative via regular train: Budget travelers can ride a regular TRA train from Taipei to Chiayi, then transfer to the same 7322 bus route. Check TRA timetables on the official Taiwan Railways booking portal or compare some rail options on 12Go.

Step-by-step: HSR to Chiayi + Bus to Alishan

1. Reserve your THSR seat from Taipei to Chiayi. Pick a morning departure from Taipei (Nangang/Taipei/ Banqiao stations). Book directly on THSR’s English website, via the Taiwan High Speed Rail information page at Taiwan Tourism, or through a voucher on Klook and redeem later.
2. Get to Taipei Main Station’s THSR concourse. Use the Taipei MRT (Blue or Red Line), city bus, or taxi/ride-hailing (Uber, Taiwan Taxi) to reach the station at least 30 minutes before departure. Follow signs for the High Speed Rail area, collect any physical tickets, and locate your platform.
3. Ride THSR from Taipei to Chiayi HSR Station. The journey takes about 1–1.5 hours. Keep your ticket handy for inspections and watch the station announcements so you’re ready to disembark at Chiayi.
4. Transfer to the Alishan bus. At Chiayi HSR, follow signs to the bus platforms (often Platform 7). Board the 7329 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle – Alishan Route if available, or take the shuttle/BRT into Chiayi TRA Station and transfer to the 7322 bus. You can check detailed 7322/7329 schedules via Chiayi County Bus or links from the Alishan “Getting Here” page.
5. Arrive at Alishan Transport Station. After about 2–2.5 hours on the winding mountain road, you’ll arrive at the Alishan bus terminal near the park entrance. Pay or show your park ticket as required, then walk or take internal shuttles to your hotel inside or near the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area.
6. Check into your accommodation. Many visitors stay inside or near the recreation area to catch the sunrise. Compare options in Alishan Township and nearby Fanlu or Zhuqi via Booking.com Alishan hotels.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei Main Station & Chiayi HSR)

• Within Taipei: The easiest way to reach Taipei Main Station is by MRT (Taipei Main Station stop), but taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are convenient if you have luggage. If you’ve just arrived at Taoyuan Airport, consider a pre-booked airport transfer via Welcome Pickups Taipei and then connect to THSR another day.
• Luggage storage: If you don’t want to bring big suitcases to Alishan, store them at your Taipei hotel, station lockers, or a service like Radical Storage near Taipei Main and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, then travel light with a smaller backpack.
• Finding buses at Chiayi HSR: Once off the train, follow bilingual signs for “Bus” or “Taiwan Tourist Shuttle”; look for buses signed 7329 Alishan. Staff at the information counter can confirm platforms and departure times.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚄🚂 Option #2 — Train via Chiayi + Alishan Forest Railway (Most Scenic)

Scenic railway Historic experience Limited seats

• Overview: Travel from Taipei to Chiayi TRA Station (by regular train or THSR + shuttle), then ride the Alishan Forest Railway up into the mountains. The forest train winds slowly through bamboo, cypress and cloud forest, turning the Alishan ascent into a highlight rather than just a transfer.
• Duration: Taipei → Chiayi by rail is usually 2–4 hours depending on train type; Chiayi → Alishan by forest railway is around 2.5–3.5 hours. Expect a total of roughly 5–7 hours including transfers.
• How to book (with price): Book TRA tickets via the English Taiwan Railways online system or compare some options on 12Go. For the forest railway itself, reserve seats online via the official Alishan Forest Railway booking site; fares are typically a few hundred TWD per person depending on section and class.
• Pros: Iconic narrow-gauge mountain railway; beautiful scenery and photo opportunities; avoids the mountain bus for most of the climb; great for train fans and slow travel lovers.
• Cons: Fewer departures than buses; services can be suspended or altered due to weather or maintenance; requires early reservations; parts of the line may occasionally be replaced by bus, so you need to check recent updates.
• Good to know: You can sometimes combine the train one way and bus the other for variety. The official Alishan Forest Railway & Cultural Heritage Office provides current route maps, station info and announcement of disruptions.

Step-by-step: Train via Chiayi + Alishan Forest Railway

1. Plan your rail route to Chiayi. Decide whether to take a regular TRA train from Taipei Main Station directly to Chiayi, or use THSR to Chiayi HSR then shuttle to the TRA station. Check times and book seats via TRA’s booking site or 12Go.
2. Reserve Alishan Forest Railway tickets. Once you know your arrival time in Chiayi, reserve the main-line forest railway from Chiayi Station to the current terminus towards Alishan through the official online booking portal. Book early for weekends, holidays, cherry blossom and leaf-peeping seasons.
3. Travel to Chiayi and locate the forest railway platform. Arrive in Chiayi with enough buffer (30–45 minutes). The Alishan Forest Railway platforms are at the front of the TRA station area; follow signs or ask staff if unsure.
4. Ride the forest railway into the mountains. Enjoy the slow climb with spirals, switchbacks and changing vegetation zones described on the official Alishan Forest Railway overview. Keep your camera, layers and snacks close at hand.
5. Arrive near Alishan and connect to your lodging. At the upper station, follow the signs toward the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area entrance. Show or purchase your ticket if required and walk or shuttle to your hotel.
6. Optional sunrise trains: Once you’re staying overnight, consider booking a sunrise branch-line trip (for example to Zhushan) via local counters or the booking portal above for the classic sea-of-clouds sunrise experience.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei Main Station & Chiayi TRA Station)

• Inside Taipei Main Station: TRA and THSR share the wider station complex but have separate concourses. Follow signs for “TRA” if you’re taking conventional trains; ticket counters and machines have English options.
• From Chiayi TRA to the forest railway: The Alishan Forest Railway platforms are adjacent to Chiayi TRA Station. Look for historic-style trains and bilingual signage; station staff can point you to the right platform and car.
• Luggage & timing: Because this route has more legs and timings matter, travel with manageable luggage and build in extra time between trains, especially if weather is unsettled.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #3 — Guided Tour / Package from Taipei (Hassle-Free)

All-in-one Hotel pickup Less flexible

• Overview: Join a 1–3 day tour that links Taipei with Alishan (often combined with Sun Moon Lake). These tours typically include transport (THSR, coach and shuttle buses), hotels, and a guide, so you can focus on scenery instead of timetables.
• Typical duration: Expect a long full-day for quick tours from Taichung or Chiayi, or 2–3 days for itineraries starting and ending in Taipei that include multiple stops.
• How to book (with price): Prices vary from roughly TWD 2,500–8,000+ per person depending on length and inclusions. Browse and compare itineraries on GetYourGuide’s Alishan tours or look at multi-day options such as 2-day Alishan & Sun Moon Lake tours. You can also check Trip.com’s Alishan day tours from Chiayi and related Trip Moments for ideas.
• Pros: Minimal planning; English- or Mandarin-speaking guides; bundled hotel and transport; good for travelers who prefer a structured schedule or are nervous about mountain transfers.
• Cons: Less flexibility for sunrise viewpoints or long hikes; you must follow group timings; sometimes more expensive than DIY trains and buses.
• Good to know: Read recent reviews to see how much free time you get at Alishan and whether sunrise, the forest railway and key walking trails are included or optional add-ons.

Step-by-step: Joining a Guided Tour or Package

1. Compare tour lengths and routes. Decide whether you want a pure Alishan-focused itinerary or a combo with Sun Moon Lake or other central Taiwan highlights. Use filters and itineraries on GetYourGuide or Trip.com’s Alishan page to narrow down options.
2. Check inclusions carefully. Confirm whether the package covers THSR tickets, hotel nights, park and railway tickets, and meals. Some tours only include transport and guiding, while others are nearly all-inclusive.
3. Book and receive your voucher. Reserve online for your chosen dates, submit passenger details, and keep digital and printed copies of confirmation emails / vouchers as some operators still like physical printouts.
4. Prepare for pick-up or meeting point. Many tours offer hotel pickup in central Taipei, while others meet at Taipei Main Station or a specified MRT exit. Double-check the time (often early morning) and arrive 10–15 minutes early.
5. Follow your guide’s schedule. Your guide will coordinate transfers between THSR, buses, and the Alishan area, and advise on sunrise times, walking routes and what to bring for each day.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotels & Taipei Main Station)

• Central Taipei hotels: Most tour operators pick up from popular hotels around Taipei Main Station, Ximending, or the Zhongshan/Xinyi areas. When booking, ensure your accommodation is inside the pickup zone or ask for the nearest designated hotel.
• Meeting at Taipei Main Station: If your tour meets at Taipei Main Station, allow extra time to navigate the complex. Use the MRT or taxi/ride-hailing (Uber, Taiwan Taxi) and locate the exact exit or hall listed on your voucher.
• Pre- and post-tour stays: It’s usually easiest to base yourself near Taipei Main Station before and after the tour. Browse options via Booking.com Taipei hotels so you can walk to meeting points.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #4 — Self-Drive / Private Transfer (Most Flexible)

Door-to-door Road trip freedom Mountain driving

• Overview: Rent a car in Taipei (or Taoyuan / Chiayi) and drive to Alishan, or hire a private driver for your group. The route follows Taiwan’s west coast freeways toward Chiayi and then climbs the famous Provincial Highway 18 (Alishan Highway) into the mountains.
• Duration: Without long stops, it’s typically 4.5–6 hours of driving from Taipei to the Alishan area, depending on traffic, rest breaks, and weather on the mountain road.
• How to book (with price): Expect car rentals from around TWD 2,000–3,500 per day plus fuel and tolls. Compare vehicles and pick-up points on Booking.com Car Rentals. For a private driver or van, request quotes from local agencies or use platforms like GetTransfer, which lets you book city-to-city rides at fixed prices.
• Pros: Maximum flexibility; easy to combine with other destinations; door-to-door transport with no luggage dragging between stations; especially good for families or groups sharing costs.
• Cons: Mountain driving requires confidence, especially in fog or rain; parking in and around Alishan can be limited; you must watch for speed limits, wildlife and scooters; rental contracts may restrict mountain or night driving.
• Two-wheel options: Experienced riders sometimes rent scooters or motorcycles around Taiwan. You can compare scooter and bike rentals in Taipei on BikesBooking scooter rentals or motorcycle hire, but riding all the way to Alishan on two wheels is only recommended for highly experienced riders familiar with local conditions.
• Good to know: Check the Alishan “Getting Here” traffic notices via the official scenic area website before you drive, in case of roadworks, typhoon damage or landslide-related closures.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive or Private Transfer

1. Choose your vehicle or driver. Decide whether to rent a self-drive car from Taipei / Taoyuan or arrange a private transfer. Compare rental companies and pick-up points on Booking.com Cars, and for private drivers check quotes on GetTransfer or through local agencies.
2. Plot your route. Use your navigation app to plan a route from Taipei via National Freeway 1 or 3 towards Chiayi, then onto Highway 18 up to Alishan. Download offline maps in case of patchy signal.
3. Drive to Chiayi and refuel. Stop at service areas for rest and to top up fuel before beginning the mountainous stretch. Follow local speed limits and take breaks if you’re tired.
4. Climb the Alishan Highway. Highway 18 is steep and winding, with great viewpoints but also sharp bends. Take your time, watch for buses and cyclists, and avoid driving in dense fog or extreme weather if possible.
5. Park and check into your lodging. Depending on your hotel, you may park at the main Alishan parking areas and walk or shuttle to your accommodation. Confirm parking arrangements with your hotel in advance.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rental Offices & Highways)

• Rental locations: Many international and local rental agencies have branches near Taipei Main Station and Taoyuan Airport. Verify if they allow returns in Chiayi or require returning the car to Taipei.
• City transfers: Within Taipei, use MRT, taxi or Uber to reach your rental office. For airport pickups, you can pre-book an arrival transfer via Welcome Pickups Taipei and collect a rental car later in the city.
• Mountain conditions: If heavy rain, typhoon remnants or landslides are reported, consider switching to trains and buses instead of self-driving; check situation updates via the Alishan National Scenic Area “Getting Here” page.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Taipei to Alishan)

How long does it take to travel from Taipei to Alishan?
Most travelers take around 3.5–4.5 hours using THSR from Taipei to Chiayi and then a bus to Alishan. If you include the Alishan Forest Railway, expect closer to 5–7 hours door to door, depending on transfers and how early you leave Taipei.

Is there a direct train from Taipei to Alishan?
No. There is no single direct train all the way from Taipei to Alishan. You typically ride THSR or TRA to Chiayi, then either continue by Alishan Forest Railway or by bus (Taiwan Tourist Shuttle / Chiayi County Bus) up the mountain.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
For weekends, holidays and cherry blossom season, it is strongly recommended to book rail and forest railway tickets in advance through the official TRA, THSR and Alishan Forest Railway websites. Bus tickets between Chiayi and Alishan are often purchased on the day, but reserving a seat on popular departures is still wise when possible.

Can I use EasyCard or iPASS on the buses to Alishan?
On many Chiayi–Alishan buses, you can tap EasyCard or iPASS to pay the fare, but policies can change. Carry enough cash in case card readers are not available on your chosen departure or for certain discounted routes.

What is the best season to visit Alishan from Taipei?
Alishan is beautiful year-round, but many visitors aim for spring (cherry blossoms and misty mornings) or autumn (crisp air and foliage). Winter can be chilly with occasional frost, and summer brings lush greenery and afternoon showers. Always check the weather and any typhoon-related updates before traveling.