Alishan Mountain Railway, Taiwan

The Alishan Mountain Railway is a 72-kilometer narrow-gauge railway built in 1912 that climbs from sea level to 2,274 meters through bamboo forests, tea plantations, and mountain scenery. The journey takes 4 hours and covers approximately 50 kilometers of elevation gain, making it one of the steepest railway grades in the world.

The train has open windows, so you can see (and smell) the landscape as you pass. The route goes through tunnels, across trestle bridges, and through towns with very few visitors. You'll see workers in tea plantations, forest landscape, and at the top, sunrise views over clouds and mountain peaks.

The journey is increasingly popular but still feels undiscovered compared to other scenic train routes. The train operates most days, though occasional repairs cause cancellations. The whole experience is remarkably affordable and accessible. A round-trip ticket costs $10–15. A stay in Alishan town costs $15–40 for accommodation, and local food is $2–4 per meal.

Alishan Railway journey: Board in Chiayi, ride to Alishan (4 hours, open windows, views throughout). $10–15 round-trip. Morning trains better than afternoon (less crowded).

Alishan Forest Recreation Area: Hiking trails through cedar and cypress forests at the top of the railway. Ancient trees, mountain views, peaceful. $10 entry, trails free.

Sunrise viewing at Alishan: Stay overnight, wake early, walk to a viewpoint to watch sunrise over clouds and surrounding mountains. Free/included with hike.

Tea plantation visit: The surrounding area grows excellent Taiwanese high-mountain tea. Visit a plantation or tea house to learn about and taste fresh tea. $5–15 for tea tasting and light meal.

Budget:: Alishan Hostel or guesthouses in Alishan town. Dorms $8–12, privates $25–40.

Mid-Range:: Alishan House or similar mountain lodges. $50–80/night.

Splurge:: Hotels in Chiayi (the main town at the base) with onsen (hot springs) access. $80–120/night.

Lunch on the train: Food is available at the top station or bring snacks. Train cars sometimes have simple meals for $5–10.

Mountain vegetables: Local grown vegetables, often sautéed with garlic and sesame oil. Side dish or light meal. $3–5.

Bamboo shoots: Fresh bamboo shoots, grilled or boiled, specific to forested mountain areas. $4–7.

High-mountain tea: Fresh brewed Oolong tea from nearby plantations. Sipped slowly as an experience, not a quick drink. $2–5 per cup at a tea house.

Xiaolong bao (soup dumplings): Available in Chiayi (famous for this dish). Steamed dumplings filled with pork and broth. $2–4 per order.