A Relaxing Two-Day Trip to Six Must-Visit Spots in Chiayi: Firefly Watching & Coffee

By MOOK Travel Editor

Chiayi’s tourist attractions are becoming increasingly popular. In addition to the many photo-worthy spots in the city, the mountainous areas boast rich forest landscapes and breathtaking sea of clouds. Below is a list of stunning spots near the Alishan Scenic Area, including indigenous cultural experiences, strolling through old streets, firefly and flower viewing, making it perfect for a two-day-one-night trip.
 
Day 1: Yuyupas → Fenchihu Old Street → Laiji Tribe → Rainbow Village (Firefly Watching)
Day 2: Rueili Green Tunnel → Taiping Skywalk & Old Street → Return Journey

1. Yuyupas
Yuyupas is an Tsou indigenous cultural park, named in the Tsou language of the Alishan Tsou people. Located 1,300 meters above sea level in a tea-covered paradise, it offers views of Yushan and the Rainbow Gorge. Aside from learning about the history and culture of the Tsou people, the architecture is built in the style of traditional Tsou houses.
 
Address: No. 127-2, Ln. 4, Le Ye Village, Alishan Township, Chiayi County

2. Fenchihu Old Street
Fenchihu is known as the “Jiufen of Southern Taiwan.” The houses built along the mountain slopes are densely packed along winding, uneven alleys. With the frequent calls of railway bento vendors and the lingering aroma of pastry shops, it has a truly classic old street charm.

3. Laiji Tribe
Laiji is an indigenous tribe located at the foot of Tsou people’s “sacred mountain,” Mount Tata. With an average elevation between 700 and 1,000 meters, it lies beside the beautiful Alishan River. Here, visitors can experience indigenous tribal culture and terraced rice fields. The mountainsides are covered with lush moso bamboo and fir forests. Additionally, Laiji coffee beans are of high quality, offering a mellow and gentle flavor. 

By car: Exit at Meishan Xi Interchange on Highway 3 → County Road 162 & Provincial Highway 3 → Meishan → County Road 162A → Taiping → Ruifeng → Taihe → County Road 149A → Laiji.

4. Rainbow Village
Every spring and early summer, fireflies appear in great numbers. You can explore the dark jungle in search of magical flickering lights. Rainbow Village in Chiayi is the firefly-watching spot with the highest density in Taiwan. Every April and May, numerous fireflies emerge, and during the day, beautiful wisteria flowers bloom—it's a must-visit destination in spring.