The Alishan Flower Festival Kicks Off on March 10 – 3 Recommended Routes to Enjoy the Mountain’s Blossoms

▲ The "Alishan Flower Festival" begins five days earlier this year. The photo shows the Thousand Island Cherry Blossoms in Alishan. (Photo provided by Chiayi Forest District Office)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Due to climate change, the Chiayi Forest District Office stated that the 2014 Alishan Flower Festival will begin five days early, running from March 10 to April 10. Although the official flower season hasn’t yet arrived, many flowers in the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area—such as mountain cherry blossoms, Ryukyu cherry blossoms, calla lilies, daisies, and golden rhododendrons—have already quietly begun to bloom. The Chiayi Forest District Office also recommends three of the best routes for enjoying cherry blossoms in Alishan.

1. Family-Friendly Leisure Route:Starting from the main gate of the recreation area, admire the Kirin cherry and Okame cherry blossoms, then proceed to the Yoshino cherry blossoms in the Alishan Hotel area, followed by the Thousand Island cherry, Ryukyu cherry, and Prunus campanulata at the Alishan Work Station. Finally, walk along the Sanchi Tree Cherry Blossom Trail and end at Ciyun Temple to see the Lady’s Slipper Orchid. The estimated walking time is about 1.5 hours.

2. Healthy & Active Walking Route:Also starting from the main gate of the recreation area, pass by the Alishan Hotel, then head to Zhapoping Park and the Alishan Police Station, before walking along the "Cherry Blossom Path" lined with blooming cherry trees, and finally enjoy the Ryukyu cherry and Prunus campanulata near Shouzhen Temple. The total walking time is about 2.5 hours.

3. Comprehensive Cherry Blossom Tour:The Chiayi Forest District Office suggests that if you want to see all of Alishan’s cherry blossoms, plan for a two-day, one-night trip and incorporate rides on the Alishan Forest Railway and sightseeing buses. In addition to the aforementioned spots, visitors can also explore the Alpine Botanical Garden to admire Rhododendron simsii, wisteria, and mountain cherry blossoms. At the Ogasawara Observation Deck, not only can you enjoy the view, but you might also spot Mikado pheasants.

To serve early spring visitors coming to enjoy the blossoms, the Chiayi Forest District Office has started offering free shuttle bus services outside the recreation area starting March 8 (Saturday), providing parking and transit services for flower viewers. Visitors are warmly invited to come and enjoy the blossoms.