23/07/2019
Getting Between Alishan and Sun Moon Lake: Your Essential Guide
Taiwan's natural beauty is renowned, with the mist-shrouded peaks of Alishan and the serene waters of Sun Moon Lake being two of its most iconic destinations. For travellers looking to experience both, understanding the transport options is crucial. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of how to navigate the journey between these two breathtaking locations, covering bus services, the scenic Alishan Forest Railway, and other useful tips to make your trip as smooth as possible.
The Direct Bus: Yuanlin Bus Service (Bus #6739)
The most direct public transport option connecting Alishan and Sun Moon Lake is the Yuanlin Bus Company's route 6739. This service is a lifeline for tourists wanting to link these two popular spots, offering a journey that typically takes around 4 hours. The route is particularly scenic, passing through parts of Yushan National Park, adding to the overall travel experience.
Key Information for Bus #6739:
| Service Operator | Yuanlin Bus Company (員林客運) |
|---|---|
| Journey Time | Approximately 3 hours 50 minutes |
| Frequency | One daily departure in each direction, with an additional service on weekends and holidays. |
| Sun Moon Lake Departure | 8:00 AM daily (plus 8:30 AM on weekends/holidays) |
| Alishan Departure | 1:00 PM daily (plus 3:30 PM on weekends/holidays) |
| Fare | TWD 295 (full fare). A 50% discount to TWD 148 is available if using EasyCard or iPass (until August 31, 2025). |
| Bus Stop Locations | Sun Moon Lake: Shuishe Village Visitor's Information Center (near 7-11). Alishan: Alishan Bus Station. |
Booking Your Bus Ticket: Due to high demand, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom season, it is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance. Reservations can be made by emailing the Yuanlin Bus Company at [email protected], providing your departure point, date, number of people, and desired bus time. You should aim to book at least 6 weeks in advance. Confirmation will be sent via email. Payment is made on the day of travel, either in cash (exact change required) or by swiping an EasyCard or iPass.
Important Considerations:
- The bus route is winding; consider bringing medication for motion sickness.
- Children under 6 can travel for free if not occupying a seat. Otherwise, they require a paid ticket.
- Luggage can be stored in the compartment under the bus if it's a regular bus; otherwise, it needs to be carried on board.
- Cancelling a reservation is possible by replying to the confirmation email.
Alternative Route: Via Chiayi
If the direct bus schedule doesn't suit your needs, or if you wish to experience the Alishan Forest Railway, an alternative route via Chiayi is available. This involves travelling from Sun Moon Lake to Chiayi, and then from Chiayi to Alishan.
Sun Moon Lake to Chiayi
You can take a bus from Sun Moon Lake back to Taichung High Speed Rail (HSR) station (approx. 90 minutes), and then take the HSR to Chiayi (approx. 30 minutes). Alternatively, you can use regular trains from Taichung city centre to Chiayi city centre station.
Chiayi to Alishan
From Chiayi, you have two primary options:
- Bus: This is generally the fastest and easiest option. Direct buses run from both the Chiayi TRA (regular train) station and the Chiayi HSR station to Alishan. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Tickets can be purchased on the spot, but booking online is advised during peak times. Bus tickets offer a discount on the Alishan entrance fee.
- Alishan Forest Railway: This historic railway offers a more scenic, albeit slower, journey. The line from Chiayi to Alishan has been fully reopened. The train departs from Chiayi TRA station. The journey to Alishan takes about 5 hours, with a stop in Fenqihu. Tickets, especially for the popular 10 AM departure that goes all the way to Alishan, should be booked in advance as they often sell out. The train ticket also includes a discount on the Alishan entrance fee.
Alishan Forest Railway: A Journey Through Time
The Alishan Forest Railway is a marvel of engineering, originally built to transport timber. Today, it offers a unique way to experience the mountainous landscape. The railway consists of several lines:
- Chiayi to Alishan Line: The main line, taking you from the plains to the mountains.
- Internal Park Lines: Three short lines within the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area (Chaoping, Shenmu, and Chushan lines) are perfect for exploring the park's attractions, including the famous sunrise viewpoint at Chushan. These lines use charming, smaller trains.
Key Railway Details:
| Chiayi to Alishan Train Times (Example) | Alishan Express No. 5: Depart Chiayi 10:00 AM, arrive Alishan 2:56 PM. |
|---|---|
| Alishan to Chiayi Train Times (Example) | Alishan Express No. 8: Depart Alishan 11:50 AM, arrive Chiayi 3:45 PM. |
| Internal Park Lines | Fares are typically NT$100 per ride. Tickets can be bought at Alishan Station. The Chushan (Sunrise) line tickets are best purchased the day before. |
Note: Train times can change, so always check the official Alishan Forest Railway website or the times posted at the station for the most current information.
Alishan E-Bus (Electric Shuttle Bus)
Within the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, an electric shuttle bus service provides an alternative to the internal park trains. While the trains are recommended for the experience, the e-buses offer a convenient way to access key points like Zhaoping Station, Shouzhen Temple, and the Chushan sunrise viewpoint (though not for the sunrise itself, as it doesn't run early enough).
Luggage Storage
Both Sun Moon Lake and Alishan offer luggage storage lockers, typically available for up to 72 hours. These are convenient for travellers who wish to explore without their bags.
Taxi Services
For those seeking ultimate convenience or travelling in a group, private car services or taxis are available. A taxi from Chiayi Station to Alishan is reportedly around TWD 3500. While more expensive, this option eliminates the need to navigate public transport schedules and can be booked in advance.
Summary of Travel Options
Choosing the best way to travel between Sun Moon Lake and Alishan depends on your priorities: time, cost, and the desire for a scenic experience.
- Direct Bus: Most convenient, but with limited daily departures. Booking ahead is essential.
- Via Chiayi (Bus): Flexible and fast, especially if using the HSR from Sun Moon Lake to Chiayi.
- Via Chiayi (Railway): A more historic and scenic experience, but slower and requires advance booking.
- Private Car/Taxi: Most expensive but offers the most flexibility and comfort.
By understanding these options and planning accordingly, you can ensure a memorable and seamless journey between two of Taiwan's most cherished natural wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much is the bus from Sun Moon Lake to Alishan?
The fare for the Yuanlin Bus (6739) is TWD 295. With an EasyCard or iPass, it's TWD 148 (until August 31, 2025).
Q2: How long does the bus take from Sun Moon Lake to Alishan?
The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes.
Q3: Can I book the Alishan Forest Railway tickets online?
Yes, tickets for the Alishan Forest Railway, especially for the Chiayi to Alishan route, can and should be booked online in advance due to high demand.
Q4: Are there any luggage storage facilities at Sun Moon Lake and Alishan?
Yes, both locations offer luggage storage lockers, typically available for up to 72 hours.
Q5: What is the best way to get from Chiayi to Alishan?
The bus is generally the fastest and most convenient option. The Alishan Forest Railway offers a more scenic but slower experience.
Q6: How often does the direct bus run between Sun Moon Lake and Alishan?
There is one direct bus daily in each direction, with an additional service on weekends and holidays.
If you want to read more articles similar to Alishan & Sun Moon Lake: Navigating Taiwan's Scenic Routes, you can visit the Transport category.