Bringing visitors up the mountain, Alishan invites woodcarvers to set up shop and introduces shuttle buses

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

From September 3 to November 28, Alishan Forest Recreation Area will host the “Forest Carving Culture: Creative Alishan” woodcarving artist residency program, where 20 renowned domestic woodcarving artists will lead visitors in experiencing the beauty of wood carving. Additionally, starting August 27, Alishan National Forest Recreation Area has introduced a shuttle bus service, offering visitors a more convenient way to explore the area.

The “Forest Carving Culture: Creative Alishan” event utilizes fallen trees for carving, not only recycling and revitalizing natural forest resources to enhance the added value of forestry but also promoting the preservation of Taiwan’s woodcarving artistry. As an internationally renowned attraction famous for its sunrise, sea of clouds, scenic train, forests, and sunset glow, Alishan now allows visitors to experience the beauty of its forest ecology while also enjoying woodcarving creations at Alishan Railway Station. On weekends, visitors can also receive a fragrant wood shavings sachet (limited to 100 per day). Beyond experiencing woodcarving art, visitors can take home a piece of the forest’s essence as a souvenir.

The newly launched shuttle bus service operates daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with four pick-up points located at the Visitor Service Center, large parking lot, Shouzhen Temple, and Zhaping Park within the recreation area. Buses run every 10 minutes from each stop, connecting key recreational sites and trail entrances throughout the park, while also providing information about attractions along the route to enhance both the recreational quality and transportation convenience. The full-route fare is NT$80, while a one-way trip costs NT$50, with free rides offered to seniors, children, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.