Text by / Scenic Spots Home compiled report Photos by / Wandering in the Clouds over Alishan
As winter sets in, Alishan gradually gets cooler. Thanks to the growing day-night temperature gap, even the last of the green maples to turn red have slipped into brilliant crimson coats. The view is so soothing that travelers should hurry to catch this ephemeral beauty — plan a trip up the mountain to enjoy the maple spectacle now!
Ancient green maple trees have also donned bright red attire. (Photo / Wandering in the Clouds over Alishan)
The ancient green maple at Alishan’s Ciyun Temple is the oldest on the mountain. In terms of age, shape, and height, it ranks first, and is hailed as the most beautiful green maple on Alishan.
The green maple at Ciyun Temple stands out on Alishan for its age, form, and height. (Photo / Wandering in the Clouds over Alishan)
In recent years, the ancient green maple has consistently been the last to turn red on Alishan. Its crimson leaves, set against the surrounding environment, create a dreamy and spectacular scene.
The vivid red of the green maple paired with an ancient pavilion creates a perfect ambiance. (Photo / Wandering in the Clouds over Alishan)
Experts say the green maple at Ciyun Temple is currently at its peak redness — the best time for maple viewing. As the year-end nears, more leaves will fall; delay your trip and you might only be left picking up fallen leaves.
An ancient pavilion framed by maple trees, like a movie scene. (Photo / Wandering in the Clouds over Alishan)
What sets the green maple at Ciyun Temple apart from other maple-viewing spots is its five-lobed leaf shape, unlike the common three-lobed variety. That’s why many travelers pick some to take home as bookmarks or souvenirs.
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