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If you're an ardent hiker, an ethnologist, or an eco-tourist, Alishan represents an embarrassment of riches. You could spend a week in this vast rural township - which accounts for almost a quarter of Chiayi County's land area - and depart feeling disappointed that so much has to be left unseen.
The Alishan Forest Recreation Area is deservedly famous, and deservedly popular, despite being one of the few places in Chiayi County to charge an admission fee. But much of what can be seen there can be seen elsewhere - without the crowds. If you'd like to hike through temperate-zone forest, go to Laiji and find a guide. If waterfalls are your thing, Fengshan is the place for you. And, of course, there is the world-famous Alishan Forest Railway.
Much of Alishan's population is aboriginal. To see Tsou tribal culture firsthand, and sample some indigenous cuisine, stay at least one night in Dabang, Lijia, or Laiji. Take your time, and scratch below the surface. |
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