If you’re visiting Taiwan with your family, a day trip to Alishan Mountains (阿里山) is one of the most memorable ways to introduce your children to Taiwan’s natural beauty -without needing to hike for hours. Whether your kids are toddlers or early primary schoolers, Alishan offers a gentle, magical escape that blends cool mountain air, scenic train rides and towering mystical forests.
Here’s everything you need to know to make your Alishan day trip with young kids smooth, fun, and unforgettable.
Getting There: How to Reach Alishan with Kids
While you can drive, many families opt for the more relaxing route:
- Take the High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Chiayi Station
- From there, either:
- Book a private transfer (most convenient with kids)
- Or hop on the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Alishan Route) — it’s scenic, but winding, so bring motion sickness meds just in case!
Tip: Leave early. Aim to arrive at Alishan by 10am so you can enjoy a full day before heading down by 4–5pm before the sun sets.
In our case, we booked a private car for NT$4500 from our hotel in Taichung to Alishan. He was friendly and super knowledgable on Chinese history and more. The ride to the foot of Alishan took less than 1.5 hours but it was the ride up to the train station that was more difficult as we had to go slower for the sake of the children. It then took another 1.5 hours to reach the train station!
Ride the Alishan Forest Railway
Young kids love trains, and this one is extra special. The Alishan Forest Railway is a century-old mini train that weaves through the forest, letting your little ones feel like they’re in a storybook adventure. If you did not manage to pack any food, head to the 7-11 convenience store, which is a 3-minute walk away and grab some snacks or onigiri. The girls were constantly hungry as we had to walk throughout but surprisingly the 5-year old managed to do it.
The railway has a lunch break between 12pm and 130pm so be sure to plan your schedule accordingly. We had to wait an hour for the next train as we did not check beforehand.
Hop on the Sacred Tree Line (神木線) — just a short 6-minute ride, perfect for restless little ones.
Highlights:
- Beautiful forest views
- Cool, fresh air from the towering trees
- Fun photo ops with the red train cars
Gentle Walks Through the Forest
You don’t need to hike steep trails to enjoy Alishan. The Alishan Forest Recreation Area has stroller-friendly boardwalks and short trails like:
- Giant Tree Trail (巨木群步道) – A 30–40 minute loop with ancient trees
- Sisters Pond (姊妹潭) – Peaceful and pretty, with a fairytale vibe
Along the way, kids can spot:
- Mossy tree trunks
- Gigantic ferns
- Tiny butterflies and sounds of forest birds
Lunch & Snacks
Within the main Alishan area, you’ll find simple restaurants and shops offering:
- Bento sets (鐵路便當)
- Hot noodles or soups
- Local mountain tea
You can also pack your own lunch and enjoy a picnic near Sisters Pond – just be sure to clean up after!
Tips for Visiting Alishan with Kids
- Wear proper shoes: Paths are safe but a bit damp or slippery at times
- Bring layers: It can be 10°C cooler than the city
- Pack snacks & water: Especially if your kids are picky eaters
- Charge your phone or camera: The scenery is stunning!
- Buy park entry tickets in advance at the gate (NT$150/adult, kids under 6 free)
Suggested Itinerary for a Day Trip with Kids
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Leave hotel (HSR or car) |
| 9:30 AM | Arrive at Alishan entrance |
| 10:00 AM | Ride Alishan Forest Railway |
| 10:30 AM | Walk Giant Tree Trail |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch near Sisters Pond |
| 1:00 PM | Visit Sisters Pond + leisure time |
| 2:30 PM | Return to entrance |
| 3:00–3:30 PM | Depart Alishan |
| 6:00 PM | Back in your accomodation |
Final Thoughts
Alishan is proof that nature adventures can be kid-friendly too. With the right planning, even young children can enjoy this magical mountain getaway – without tears or tantrums. From mini train rides to walking among 2,000-year-old trees, it’s a memory your family won’t forget anytime soon.
So the next time you’re in Taiwan, make time for the mountains. Alishan might just be your child’s first favourite forest.
