THE Alishan National Scenic Area in central Taiwan is an internationally well-known scenic spot. Traveling around Alishan during spring is a good time for dining, drinking or relaxing.

A highlight for Alishan would be its flowers. The Yoshino cherry, with its light chalky white flowers, attracts numerous tourists. The shape of the trees are cut beautifully and the flowers are outstanding even if they are over a hundred years old. Because of this, Alishan has become a favorite spot of photographers and tourists, especially during the flower season. During the cherry blossom season from March to April, more than a thousand sakura trees are scattered around the area. Among them, the Yoshino cherry, which only grows in cold climate areas, is mixed with Japanese breed yaesakura, Cerasus speciosa and special Taiwan cherry.

These flowers extend up to two kilometers from Chaoping Station to Alishan House. Another route where you can appreciate these flowers is at the Jueili Mountain area. The very popular wisteria (flowering plant) in Taiwan is mainly scattered at Jueili Village in Alishan.

There are a good number of home stays, and high mountain tea and coffee are also rich in the area. Both Alishan coffee and tea have unique flavors and are popular souvenir items. When it comes to food, Alishan is known for its Tsou Tribe cooking.

The Tsou Tribe is the indigenous people of Alishan. The tribe specialty includes the slab stone BBQ, bamboo rice in bamboo, Magao Salad, Wasabi Tofu, Areca Flower Soup or Fried Areca Flower, River Shrimp and Pigeon Bean. These are all available at any restaurant or home stay around Tanayiku Valley.

Tourists may take the train to Chiayi Railway Station and transit to Chiayi Bus to Alishan. The earliest bus leaves at 6 a.m. and leaves at 5 p.m. every day. (PR)