The King Cherry Blossom at Alishan is in full bloom!

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel & Lifestyle Network Editorial Team

Every March and April marks the season of flourishing blossoms at Alishan, drawing numerous tourists to the mountainside to admire the flowers. With over 2,000 cherry trees representing more than 20 varieties, the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is a floral paradise. The King Cherry Blossom in front of the Alishan Work Station has now reached full bloom, while Yoshino cherry blossoms across other scenic spots within the park are gradually coming into full flower. In addition to cherry blossoms, other plants such as Formosan alpine rose (Taiwan cherry), Taiwan pleione, magnolia, flowering quince, daisy, calla lily, Yunnan yellow jasmine, and Hirado azaleas are also blooming successively throughout the park.

The Forestry Bureau, Chiayi Forest District Office noted that the juxtaposition of trains and cherry blossoms is a classic scene that photography enthusiasts love to capture. To coincide with the blossom season, steam trains along with four cypress wood carriages run every Wednesday on the Zhaoping Line, carrying passengers through the scenery. Train and railway fans should seize this opportunity to document the most beautiful springtime views of Alishan.

Additionally, due to limited parking space within the recreation area, the Chiayi Forest Management Office has designated temporary parking spaces for buses and motorcycles along Highway 18 between kilometers 86-89, and for passenger cars along Highway 18 between kilometers 89-95. Visitors are advised to park their vehicles properly and in order. From now until April 10th, the Chiayi Forest Management Office will also provide free shuttle bus services outside the Alishan Flower Season area. These shuttles operate daily from 8 AM to 5 PM on weekdays, and from 4 AM to 5 PM on weekends and holidays, with seven temporary shuttle stops set up between kilometers 89-95 on Highway 18. Visitors who park outside the area can take these shuttles for free to the ticket gate of the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area.