Things to do in Chiayi County
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Top 10 attractions in Chiayi County
Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
Alishan Scenic Area is an iconic attraction in Taiwan. The Alishan Mountain Range, consisting of 18 large mountains, covers a vast area. The essence of natural beauty is concentrated in the "Alishan Forest Recreation Area". The five wonders of "sunrise, sea of clouds, sunset, forest, and train" can all be appreciated here. When tourists mention "going to Alishan", they usually mean coming here. On clear days, the Alishan sunrise is not to be missed. Within the recreation area, the renowned Zhushan and Xiaoliyuanshan Observation Deck offer unobstructed views of the Yushan peaks, the Central Mountain Range, Tashan, and other mountain ranges. The stunning spectacle of light and shadow as the sun rises is a truly memorable experience. Sunrise occurs around 5:00 a.m. on the summer solstice, around 7:00 a.m. on the winter, and around 6:00 a.m. on the spring and autumn equinoxes. Staying within the recreation area is recommended for sunrise viewing. Please bring a flashlight, a thick jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Sea of Clouds: The Alishan Sea of Clouds, one of Taiwan's eight scenic spots, often appears in the early morning or dusk when the weather is clear and cloudy in autumn and winter. Recommended places to enjoy the sea of clouds in the recreation area include the observation deck next to the Gaoshan Museum, Alishan Hotel, Alishan Railway Station, Zhuoping Park, Ogasawara Mountain Observation Deck, and near the first parking lot. Sunset: Due to the thin air and strong solar radiation in the high mountains, the blue sky is more vibrant than on the plains, and the sunset glow is even more vibrant. Ciyun Temple, Alishan Guesthouse, Alishan Railway Station, Zhaoping Park, Duigaoyue, Mt. Ogasawara, and the area near the first parking lot are all good spots to view the Alishan sunset. Alishan was originally one of Taiwan's three largest forests. As the altitude gradually increases, you can see all kinds of plants from tropical to temperate zones. Cherry blossoms fly in the spring, red leaves cover the mountains in autumn, and there are also amazing thousand-year-old red cypress forests. You can walk through the forest along the more than 600-meter-long wooden plank road and enjoy a long-lost natural forest bath. Trains: The red train weaving through the cherry blossom forest has become a symbol of Alishan. This retro train, once used to transport timber, is now a popular tourist attraction. Railways run from Chiayi Train Station all the way to the amusement park. The Zhushan Line is perfect for sunrise viewing, while the Shenmu Line reaches the towering forest. Both lines offer convenient access to the entire amusement park. In addition to the charming natural scenery, the recreation area also has many cultural attractions, including the Alishan VIP Hotel, the Alpine Museum, the Tree Spirit Pagoda... Alpine tea is Alishan's number one specialty souvenir. You can buy some around Alishan Railway Station and Fenqihu Old Street as a gift to your friends and family.Chiayi County · 56.3km from downtown
Alishan National Scenic Area
The Alishan National Scenic Area includes Fanlu, Zhuqi, Meishan, and Alishan. The transportation network in these four counties spreads across the entire region like the veins of a leaf. Travelers move through the area, marveling at the lush forests, spectacular sunrises, and stunning clouds. Enjoying tea at beautiful tea plantations and visiting the Tsou indigenous tribe are leisure activities not to be missed. Alishan has been abundant in Taiwan Red Cypress and Taiwan Yellow Cypress since ancient times. After years of logging, there are now nearly 40 giant red cypress trees along the first and second phases of the Giant Tree Plank Walk. Among them, the towering "Alishan Xianglin Sacred Tree" stands at 45 meters tall with a trunk circumference of 12.3 meters and an estimated age of 2,300 years, making it an unmissable highlight for visitors to Alishan. The mountainous area boasts rich biodiversity, featuring rare plants such as the Cyathea spinulosa, Huperzia somai, and Pleione formosana. The wildlife is equally vibrant, with species like the Formosan rock macaque, Mikado pheasant, bush warbler, Taiwan bush robin, and the Alishan salamander. The forest train in Alishan Forest Recreation Area is beloved by visitors. The sunrise at Alishan is magnificent and unforgettable. The Zhushan area is an ideal spot to watch the sunrise. The Alishan area enjoys a cool climate with average temperatures around 10°C. It's worth visiting year-round, though July and August see more rainfall. From November to April, the northeast monsoon brings ideal conditions for witnessing spectacular sea of clouds and misty landscapes. Visit indigenous tribes to learn about local customs and culture. The Tsou villages feature thatched-roof houses, with the men's club "Kuba" being particularly famous. Short daylight hours and significant day-night temperature differences are the geological advantages of Alishan, making high-mountain oolong tea, Jinxuan tea, and tea bags highly popular. You can experience on-site/riverside tea tasting and bamboo forest tea ceremonies. More local snacks to try, including sunrise cakes and millet mochi.Chiayi County · 56km from downtown
Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum
Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum, located in Taibao City, Chiayi, features a streamlined architectural design inspired by traditional ink paintings. Covering approximately 70 hectares in total, the area includes a 20-hectare museum zone and 50-hectare park. The museum building was designed by architect Kris Yao. Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum primarily features exhibits borrowed from the three main collections of the Northern Branch - paintings and calligraphy, artifacts, and documents - to create large-scale thematic exhibitions with both quality and quantity.Chiayi County · 4.5km from downtown
OTHERWORLD
Mid-autumn limited edition: Chocolate moonlight castle adventure begins! Four cocoa gold brick recipes have been secretly hidden in the castle: First use your nose to find the real cocoa, then enter the castle to retrieve the four recipes one by one. Collect all four recipes to reveal the golden key, and adventurers can claim their prize at the castle's holy grail! The recipes are hidden - this mid-autumn festival, we're waiting for you to find them! Rumor has it there's an even bigger surprise—lucky treasure hunters who draw a golden gacha can head to the "golden grail" to claim an edible "cocoa gold brick"! Don't forget to take a photo with the giant golden key after the treasure hunt. Event info: From 9/5 to 9/28, the treasure hunt opens every weekend, with sessions every half hour and a midday break. An exciting treasure hunt awaits—come and complete it! If you think fairy tale castles can only be seen at Disney, you definitely can't miss the newly opened OTHERWORLD in Chiayi! Dubbed the "Taiwan version of Disney Castle," this dreamy new attraction not only boasts a European fairy tale ambiance in its exterior but also integrates a chocolate factory tour, an exotic town, and cocoa culture experiences. Whether it's a family trip, a romantic date, or simply looking for a dreamy photo spot, you'll be pleasantly surprised here! Enter the park & check in at the castle square. As soon as you enter, you'll be drawn to the pink and turquoise Dream Castle, a classic photo spot. The square features arches and sculptures with diverse angles, so it's recommended to take empty shots first. Explore the castle interior and the golden cocoa tree. The castle's interior design is layered, with each floor offering different themed spaces and experiences. The central "golden cocoa tree" is a popular photo spot. Inside, there are also dining areas and a chocolate merchandise section. Maya story zone: Cocoa culture and interactive experience. Here you can learn about cocoa from raw materials to production processes, and participate in DIY activities (chocolate making, cookie painting). Perfect for family outings. Provence town area: Stroll and take photos among colorful cottages, cafes, and specialty shops, with a romantic atmosphere perfect for walking and photography.Chiayi County · 31.5km from downtown
Château de Jourdeness
Jourdeness Castle Biotech Park, also known as Jourdeness Castle Biotech Complex, is Asia's largest beauty castle-themed tourist factory, built in Renaissance Baroque style. The architectural design concept CHÂTEAU, meaning "castle" in French, incorporates classical Renaissance elements like domed gables, Roman column sculptures, and garden plazas, evoking the grandeur of European palaces. The guardian statues flanking the castle symbolize life and eternity respectively, reflecting Jourdeness's commitment to protecting consumers' right to beauty. Jourdeness Castle Biotech Park features towering trees and blooming flowers, with Baroque architecture standing majestically. Step into this European-style aesthetic castle, one of Taiwan's most dazzling landmarks, for a transformative beauty journey. Highlights include Taiwan's tallest 50m Baroque dome, a 40,000 sqm outdoor European-style view garden, 19 scenic spots within the castle grounds, and over 100 perfect photo opportunities. Hauger Plaza, the main area of Jourdeness Castle Biotech Park, welcomes visitors into a castle brimming with aesthetic elements that embody the founder's corporate philosophy of "honesty, trust, and sustainable operation." The guardian statues on either side symbolize life and eternity respectively, reflecting Jourdeness's commitment to protecting consumers' right to beauty. Princess Niss Garden exudes a serene and tranquil atmosphere, infused with a touch of magic. Time seems to stand still here, with flowers frozen in full bloom, naturally slowing the pace of every traveler's steps. Shizuka Pool, derived from the Japanese word meaning tranquility, is a vast cosmetic mirror reflecting the beautiful silhouette of the castle. Beneath its seemingly serene surface lies boundless vitality, unconditionally embracing all who visit. The space features a circular design that maximizes resource reuse, echoing the company's commitment to sustainability. Chris Pine Forest, connected to the tranquil pond and surrounded by rivers and woods, is a dreamlike forest straight out of a European fairy tale. The lush bald cypress trees shed their feathery leaves, creating a vast golden wonderland. Whether you're strolling leisurely or running joyfully, Chris Pine Forest is an excellent choice for your visit. The Miller Pavilion is an exquisite octagonal gazebo, beautifully connected to Princess Nys's Garden and Princess Kiki's Fountain. This charming pavilion is also a favorite spot of Michelangelo the Cat, who often visits between tasks to rest briefly. May travelers who come here also find respite like Michelangelo, gathering energy at the Miller Pavilion for their next journey. Happiness Bell Tower, a place for blessings and bell ringing. Legend has it that those who come here, pray sincerely and ring the bronze bell at sunset, can "ring in happiness and enjoy lifelong bliss."Chiayi County · 29.6km from downtown
Taiping Suspension Bridge
taipingbridge spans across Taiping Mountain and Turtle Mountain, being the longest single-span pedestrian suspension bridge in the country. Locals refer to Turtleback Mountain as Turtle Mountain, 36 Bends as Snake Mountain, and the Five Peaks as Dragon Mountain. Taiping is surrounded by mountains, forming a lotus-shaped treasure site. The current Taiping Highway was manually constructed during the Japanese colonial period with nearly 40,000 laborers, making it the earliest highway built in the Chiayi mountainous area. It was widened in 1986. Along the route, betel nut trees, longan trees, and various other plants thrive in a vibrant mix. On clear days, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Yunlin-Chiayi Plain. The suspension bridge stretches 281m long at an elevation of approximately 1,000m, offering visitors a perfect vantage point to admire the scenery of Chiayi and witness stunning sunsets. Stepping onto taipingbridge, you can feel the mountain breeze on your face and enjoy unobstructed panoramic views. Whether under clear skies or shrouded in mist, it presents different breathtaking scenes. On sunny days, you can gaze at the vast expanse of the Jianan Plain, with villages and rice fields stretching as far as the eye can see. When enveloped in clouds, the bridge seems to float in mid-air, creating an ethereal fairyland experience. The design of taipingbridge is user-friendly, featuring wooden decking that ensures both safety and comfort for walking. The hollow iron frame at the center allows visitors to peer through and admire the lush greenery below, adding an adventurous thrill. The emerald tea plantations surrounding the bridge contrast beautifully with the blue sky, offering visitors a visual feast.Chiayi County · 36.9km from downtown
FLOW SURFING PARK
Xinlang International Skateboard Surfing Water Park is a uniquely trendy sports and aquatic destination in the area, specializing in professional artificial wave surfing experiences. It combines fashionable sports, refreshing water play, and leisure entertainment in one venue, breaking away from traditional water park monotony to create a novel urban light extreme sports experience space. No need to travel to the coast - experience authentic surfing thrills right in the city center. A popular choice for family outings, friend gatherings, summer cooling-off, Instagram-worthy check-ins, and stress-relieving workouts. The park's core highlight is its professional constant-wave skateboard surfing facility, capable of simulating various ocean wave rhythms and patterns. Whether you're a complete beginner, a child experiencing it for the first time, or an advanced enthusiast looking to challenge trick moves, everyone can find their ideal surfing mode. The venue features comprehensive safety equipment and professional instructional guidance, making it easy to get started and highly enjoyable, allowing everyone to safely experience the thrill and fun of surf skating. Open year-round regardless of weather or season, this high-quality water park is a rare urban destination combining sports, entertainment, and summer refreshment. It has become a must-visit trendy hotspot for both locals and tourists during the summer.Chiayi County · 4.8km from downtown
Three Little Pigs Leisure Farm
Three Little Pigs Leisure Farm was originally a pig farming operation. Recognizing how modern life has created distance between people and animals, the farm transformed into a leisure destination to provide more opportunities for connecting with nature. It adopted the familiar pig-related name "Three Little Pigs" as its new identity. Visitors are greeted by an adorable giant pink pig upon entry - the iconic photo spot of Three Little Pigs Leisure Farm! Step into Three Little Pigs Leisure Farm and enter a vibrant fairytale world The vast park is fun, photogenic, and full of exciting activities The Hobbit House is a must-visit photo spot. Every corner is filled with natural landscapes and playful charm The park is home to incredibly adorable and therapeutic animals Watching them roam freely in the park is truly a delight. Get up close with the animals!Chiayi County · 19.7km from downtown
Alishan Shouzhen Temple
Shouzhen Palace, located in Alishan Township, Chiayi County, is dominated by the goddess of birth and the god of good fortune. Although it is a temple in the mountains, it is full of incense. The temple has a magnificent altar and story totems that stretch across the top of the temple. The sandalwood of the soul.Chiayi County · 57.1km from downtown
Mea Me Shang Shu Cute Pet Paradise
"Mea Me Shang Shu Cute Pet Paradise" connects with the lush green scenery of Chiayi's Alishan mountains, located in the golden triangle area defined by the eastern water canal and the Palace Museum Boulevard. The park is divided into two major themed areas: the phytoncide-rich "Magic Forest Adventure Park" and the adorable "Cute Pet Animal Park." Magic Forest Adventure Park features two thrilling forest attractions: the 200-meter-long Forest High Ropes Course with 10 challenging aerial obstacles to conquer, and the Extreme Giant Swing standing four stories high for an adrenaline-pumping experience. Skip Morocco and witness the world wonder of "Sheep on Trees" in Chiayi! Experience the Animal United Nations! Play and interact with adorable park animalsChiayi County · 4.6km from downtown
Experiences you can't miss in Chiayi County
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Featured Cultural experiences in Chiayi County
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Featured Outdoor experiences in Chiayi County
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More things to do
Private Tours in Chiayi County
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Free things to do in Chiayi County
Alishan National Scenic Area
Chiayi County · 56km from downtownAlishan Shouzhen Temple
Chiayi County · 57.1km from downtown
Longyin Temple
Chiayi County · 35.9km from downtown
Fenqi Lake
Chiayi County · 45.8km from downtown
Alishan Xiding Paradise Sea of clouds
Chiayi County · 40.6km from downtown
Beigang Chaotian Temple
Yunlin · 13.7km from Chiayi County
Sister Ponds
Chiayi County · 57.5km from downtown
Chiayi Loco Shed Park
Chiayi City · 20.7km from Chiayi County
Giant Tree Cluster Trail
Chiayi County · 57km from downtown
Taipei 101
Taipei
What travellers say about Chiayi County
_We***718 October 2026
5.0
The tour guide service was excellent! I breathed in the fresh air and saw the beautiful scenery of Alishan. On the way back, the guide didn't need to take me back to the hotel, but he did. Thank you so much!
Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
notmaxp1 September 2026
5.0
Business Hours:Address:Tips:Reasons to Recommend:Reasons to Recommend: alishan national forest map
Alishan National Scenic Area
Deanson Lin25 July 2026
5.0
The exhibits at the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum are truly stunning, especially the Meat-shaped Stone and the Dragon Canon, which are visually breathtaking and well worth seeing. However, the large crowds during the summer holidays made the visitor experience somewhat cramped; in addition, the layout of the museum was not as smooth as expected, which somewhat affected the overall experience.
Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum
Lazarus Lin10 July 2026
5.0
Three Must-See Highlights of the Park:
1. A Dreamlike Castle Exterior and the "Golden Cocoa Tree": The castle's exterior was designed by Mao Ronghai, the architect behind Zodennis Castle. The details are intricately embellished with reliefs of cocoa beans and chocolate bricks, making it a photogenic spot during the day when sunlight streams in. Inside, the 10-meter-high "Golden Cocoa Tree" in the center of the high-ceilinged lobby is the focal point, perfectly complementing the surrounding European-style townscape, creating an instant sense of being abroad.
2. The "Bean to Bar" Chocolate Process and DIY: This is a cocoa-themed tourist factory. In the "Maya Story Zone," you can see a transparent chocolate production line, learning how cocoa beans are transformed into chocolate. The park also offers chocolate DIY experiences, perfect for bringing children to try it out. 3. Diverse Food and Ice Cream:
On the second floor, there is a spacious American-style buffet restaurant, while the "Ice Market" next to the carousel is recommended to try their soft serve ice cream and shaved ice, which have as many as 18 local flavors and taste quite good.
OTHERWORLD
Angelica Ponio19 January 2026
5.0
Im so amazed in this place.. easy to get around and we enjoy our whole day here
Château de Jourdeness
TeresaHong6 February 2026
4.0
Today's weather was a mix of rain and sunshine, leaving us with lasting memories. The Yunnan Trail was easy to walk; although I was a little out of breath climbing the steps at first, it was all worth it. Seeing the beautiful tea plantations immediately invigorated me, making the trip truly worthwhile. The Taiping Old Street was a bit deserted on Friday, which was a slight disappointment.
Taiping Suspension Bridge
dar081529 August 2026
5.0
The facilities aren't numerous, but enough to keep you entertained for a whole day.
There's a huge swimming pool, and water slides are divided into children's and older kids' sections.
The children's slides are safe and fun, while the older kids' slides offer a super thrilling straight-line acceleration.
A unique feature is the artificial surfing (with instructors).
Food and drinks are also sold in the area (though a bit pricey).
Overall, it's a great place to bring kids.
FLOW SURFING PARK
_TI***8x26 September 2026
4.0
It's perfect for kids under elementary school age, with plenty of facilities to play on, animals to watch and feed, a water play area, showers, hair dryers, a restaurant, and a chicken cake shop. There are also plenty of chairs to sit and rest on.
Three Little Pigs Leisure Farm
Panda_vick6 March 2023
5.0
It is a very beautiful place. The atmosphere is shady and suitable for relaxation. There are many interesting things. It is a pity that the building is under renovation.
Alishan Shouzhen Temple
aerofish8 May 2025
5.0
The lambs are very cute. There are about 100 lambs in the whole park, of different breeds, including goats, black-nosed sheep, and laughing sheep. It is suitable for adults and children to play, and the scenic area will give a handful of grass to feed the lambs.
Mea Me Shang Shu Cute Pet Paradise
