About Place
- "Gateway to Alishan, where the sunrise kisses the sea of clouds."
- "Hidden gem of Taiwan, rich in history and culture."
- "Home to traditional markets, serene temples, and lush green landscapes."
Reasons to Visit
- Alishan Scenic Area : Chiayi is best known as the gateway to the Alishan National Scenic Area, one of Taiwan’s most famous natural wonders. The area offers stunning mountain views, particularly at sunrise, when the sun rises over a sea of clouds. The Alishan Forest Railway, a historic narrow-gauge railway, provides a unique and scenic way to explore the area.
- Cultural Richness : Chiayi is a city steeped in history and culture. The city hosts traditional markets, beautiful temples like the Chiayi Confucius Temple, and unique museums such as the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum. It is also famous for its traditional arts, crafts, and performances, offering a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage.
- Delicious Local Cuisine : Chiayi is renowned for its culinary delights, particularly turkey rice, a local specialty that has become a must-try dish for visitors. The city’s night markets are bustling with food stalls offering a wide variety of traditional Taiwanese snacks, making it a paradise for food lovers.
Visa
- For travelers from the USA, Canada, and EU countries : Visa-free entry to Taiwan for up to 90 days.
- For travelers from Australia and New Zealand : Visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
- For travelers from Japan and South Korea : Visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
- For travelers from Southeast Asian countries (e.g., Thailand, Malaysia) : Visa-free entry for up to 14 or 30 days, depending on the country.
- For travelers from India and other South Asian countries : A visa is required, but there are options for eVisa or visa on arrival for those with prior visas from specific countries.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Destination : Approximate cost for round-trip flights from Taipei to Chiayi is around $100-$150 per person.
- Hotel Cost : Average hotel cost in Chiayi is about $60-$100 per night. For 3 nights, the total cost would be approximately $180-$300.
- Food Cost : Expect to spend around $10-$20 per person per meal. For two people over three days, the total food cost would be around $180-$360.
- Activity Cost : Entrance fees and transportation in Alishan may cost around $50-$100 per person. Total activity cost for two people is around $100-$200.
- Near Destination Travel Cost : Renting a car for three days may cost around $150-$200.
Total Estimated Cost : $710-$1,210 for two people for a three-day trip.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Exploring Chiayi City Start your day with a visit to the Chiayi Confucius Temple, exploring its serene architecture from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Then, head to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM to immerse yourself in a rich collection of Asian art and artifacts. For lunch, savor the famous turkey rice at Smart Fish Restaurant around 1:30 PM. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through Chiayi Park, visiting the historic Hinoki Village from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Have dinner at Xian Yue Restaurant, trying their traditional Taiwanese dishes at 7:00 PM. Conclude the evening with a walk through Wenhua Road Night Market from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Day 2 : Alishan Scenic Area Leave early at 5:00 AM to catch the sunrise at Alishan, one of the most breathtaking experiences Taiwan has to offer. After watching the sunrise from 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM, explore the Alishan Forest Railway and its surrounding trails until 11:00 AM. Enjoy lunch at Alishan House Restaurant with a view of the mountains at 12:00 PM. In the afternoon, visit the Sacred Tree and the Sister Ponds, soaking in the natural beauty from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Return to Chiayi in the evening, and for dinner, visit Eighty-Nine Night Market at 7:00 PM to sample more local delicacies. End the day with a peaceful night walk in Chiayi Park from 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Day 3 : Historical and Cultural Day Begin with a visit to the Chiayi Old Prison, a fascinating historical site, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Then, explore the Chiayi Municipal Museum from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Lunch at A Xing Fish Soup Restaurant at 1:00 PM to try their famous fish soup. In the afternoon, head to Lantan Lake, also known as Orchid Lake, from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride. Dine at Dung Shan Ren Jia at 6:30 PM, known for its farm-to-table dining experience. Conclude the evening with a cultural performance at the Chiayi Performing Arts Center from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Safety Tips
- Keep your passport and important documents secure.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Carry a basic first-aid kit.
- Stay hydrated, especially when hiking in Alishan.
- Use registered taxis or car rentals.
- Keep emergency contacts handy.
- Avoid traveling alone at night.
- Ensure you have travel insurance.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin to help with communication.
Flights
- Airlines : Mandarin Airlines, Uni Air, or TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) for train options.
- Duration : Flight from Taipei to Chiayi takes about 1 hour; a train ride takes around 2-3 hours.
- Cost : Flights cost approximately $100-$150, while train tickets range from $15-$30.
Hotels
- Chiayi King Hotel : Centrally located with excellent amenities.
- Hotel Hi : Known for its comfortable rooms and modern design.
- Alishan House : For those who prefer to stay in the mountains.
- Yuh Tong Hotel : A luxury option in the heart of Chiayi.
- South Urban Hotel : A boutique hotel with excellent service.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy (Taipei) : +886-2-2781-3518
- Police : 110
- Ambulance & Firefighters : 119
Country
Closet Airport
- Chiayi Airport (CYI)
Nearest City
- Taipei
Heritage Sites
- Alishan Forest Railway (listed as a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Airlines
- Mandarin Airlines
- Uni Air
- various domestic airlines.
Currency
- New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
Languages Spoken
- Mandarin Chinese
- Taiwanese Hokkien
Real Story
Chiayi played a significant role during Taiwan's struggle for democracy, particularly during the White Terror period (1947-1987). This era, marked by political repression and martial law, deeply impacted Chiayi, as it was a hotbed of resistance against the authoritarian regime of the Kuomintang (KMT).
One of the most notable events was the 1947 Chiayi Uprising, part of the broader 228 Incident, where local residents, angered by government corruption and brutal suppression, rose against the KMT government. The uprising was violently quashed, and many were arrested, tortured, or executed, leaving a lasting scar on the city's history.
In the following decades, Chiayi became a symbol of resistance, with its people continuing to push for political reform and human rights. The city's role in Taiwan's democratization process is commemorated in several local memorials and museums, which serve as reminders of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and justice.
Cuisine
Chiayi’s cuisine is a celebration of Taiwan’s diverse culinary heritage. The most iconic dish is Turkey Rice (火雞肉飯), a simple yet flavorful dish of shredded turkey served over rice, drizzled with a savory sauce. This dish reflects the ingenuity of post-war Chiayi, where turkey farming was promoted as a means of economic recovery. Another local favorite is Fish Head Casserole (魚頭鍋), a hearty soup made with fish heads, tofu, and vegetables, simmered in a rich broth. Night markets in Chiayi offer an array of street foods, from Oyster Omelets to Stinky Tofu, each dish a delicious exploration of Taiwan’s street food culture.
Culture and History
Chiayi, a city with a rich cultural heritage, serves as a bridge between Taiwan's modernity and its traditional roots. The city’s cultural landscape is deeply influenced by its historical connections to the indigenous Tsou people and its role during the Japanese colonial period. One of the most iconic cultural symbols is the Alishan Forest Railway, a marvel of engineering from the early 20th century, which played a crucial role in the development of the region.
The city is also home to numerous temples, each reflecting the spiritual practices that are integral to Taiwanese culture. The Chiayi Confucius Temple, for instance, is not just a place of worship but also a center for cultural education, where Confucian teachings continue to influence local customs and traditions.
Food plays a significant role in Chiayi's cultural identity. The city is famous for its turkey rice, a dish that originated during the post-World War II period and has since become synonymous with the region. Night markets in Chiayi are bustling hubs of social life, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy a wide variety of street foods, each dish telling a story of the city’s diverse cultural influences.
Festivals in Chiayi, such as the annual Lantern Festival, are vibrant displays of the city’s cultural richness. These events often incorporate traditional performances, dragon and lion dances, and elaborate lantern displays, showcasing the artistic talents of the local community.