Rhizomes of Iris and Gladiolus in Full Bloom at Alishan, Welcoming Visitors with a Sea of Flowers

By the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
 
At the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area under the Alishan Forest District Office of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Bureau in Chiayi, the rhizomes of iris and gladiolus have burst into full bloom. Especially on the slope near Alishan Railway Station, the orange-red sea of flowers sways in the wind. The delicate blossoms and the large, full blooms of hydrangeas compete in beauty, creating an overwhelmingly gorgeous sight. In the scorching summer heat, they offer a refreshing visual feast.

The Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is currently in the peak blooming season for the lush, rice-field-green rhizomes of iris and gladiolus. These flowers have all burst into orange-red blooms seemingly in unison, as if a spilled palette has dyed the season in vibrant hues of orange-red—like a scene straight out of a fairy tale, stunningly beautiful and captivating. Coupled with the phytoncides released by thousand-year-old cypress trees, carried by the gentle mountain mist, you'll feel refreshed and invigorated, with all summer heat dissipating.

Rhizomes of iris and gladiolus can be found around Alishan Railway Station, along Zhushan Forest Road, and in Zhaping Park, among other places. Pedestrians can stroll along the pedestrian-only path to Zhaping Park, enjoying the flowers while soaking in the forest’s phytoncides. Alternatively, you can take the new electric sightseeing shuttle or the forest train to Zhaping Station, then wander through the literary ambiance of Zhaping Park or visit the Shuisan Giant Tree to gaze up at the approximately 2,700-year-old red cypress.