Pure and Serene Practice Environment

The mountain forest environment far from worldly distractions provides practitioners with an excellent pure meditation grounds. Many temples have meditation centers or quiet spaces, allowing visitors to temporarily set aside worldly worries and experience inner peace.

Recommended Places

Shouzhen Temple

Located within the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, Shouzhen Temple is one of the most famous temples in Alishan. This temple dedicated to the Xuantian Shangdi was built during the Japanese colonial period and has undergone multiple reconstructions, becoming the local center of faith today. The temple architecture fuses traditional and modern styles, with its golden and magnificent roof particularly eye-catching among the mountain forest. Particularly noteworthy is that Shouzhen Temple is right next to the famous Alishan Sacred Tree Area; after worshipping, you can also enjoy the spectacular millennium-old sacred trees. The temple square offers broad views, making it an excellent location to admire the Alishan mountain peaks.

Ciyun Temple

Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters, Ciyun Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the Alishan area. The temple complex adopts traditional Chinese style, with red walls and glazed tiles appearing simple and elegant among the green trees. Ciyun Temple is known for its serene meditation environment, with a dedicated meditation hall inside that regularly holds meditation courses. Ancient trees surround the temple, and flowers bloom continuously throughout the seasons; in spring, cherry blossoms cover the mountains, making it an ideal place to experience temple meditation in the mountains.

Fencihu Catholic Church

Though not a temple in the traditional sense, Fencihu Catholic Church, as an important religious building in the Alishan area, is worth visiting. This Catholic church built in the 1960s has a simple and modest exterior, with interior decorations incorporating indigenous cultural elements. The church is located near the Fencihu Old Street; after visiting, you can also taste the famous railway bento (boxed lunch) and experience the cultural charm of this mountain town.

Shibi Temple

Located in the Shibi Scenic Area at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters, Shibi Temple is an excellent location for viewing the sea of clouds. The temple buildings are built into the mountain, harmoniously blending with the natural environment. Shibi Temple is most famous for its spectacular sea of clouds views, particularly in the early morning when the clouds roll through the valley and the temple seems to float above the clouds—a truly magnificent sight. The temple houses Guanyin Bodhisattva, with thriving incense, making it an important place for local residents to pray for peace.

Longyun Temple

Hidden deep within the bamboo forest, Longyun Temple is a small temple full of Zen atmosphere. Though not large in scale, the environment is serene, particularly suitable for静心冥想. Dense bamboo surrounds the temple, and when the breeze blows, the bamboo leaves rustle, creating an excellent meditation atmosphere. Longyun Temple's specialty is its exquisite wood carvings, many of which were crafted by local artisans with superb skills, worth appreciating carefully.

Practical Information

Transportation

• Take the Taiwan Good Touch Alishan Line to the Alishan Transfer Station, then walk or take the park shuttle to various temples
• Self-driving: take National Highway 3 to Zhongpu Interchange, then follow Provincial Highway 18 (Alishan Highway) up the mountain
• Recommended to use public transportation as the mountain roads are winding and parking spaces are limited

Visit Fees

• Most temples are free to visit
• Donations are voluntary, generally NT$10-100
• Alishan Forest Recreation Area admission: Full ticket NT$300, Half ticket NT$150

Opening Hours

• Shouzhen Temple: Open 24 hours
• Ciyun Temple: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Most other temples: 6:00 AM - 5:30 PM
• It is recommended to avoid meal times (12:00-13:00) to avoid disturbing the monks' routines

Accommodation Suggestions

• Alishan Hotel, Alishan Sacred Tree Hotel, and other mountain accommodations
• More bed and breakfast options in the Fencihu area
• Recommended to book in advance, especially during cherry blossom season

Travel Tips

Clothing Suggestions

Mountain temperatures are lower and vary greatly, so it is recommended to bring warm jackets. When entering temples, please dress modestly and avoid overly revealing clothing. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential as some temples require walking along mountain paths to reach.

Worship Etiquette

Before entering the temple, please wash your hands and purify yourself, maintaining silence and reverence. Please ask for permission before taking photos, especially inside the main hall. When offering incense, do so with sincere intentions without making overly materialistic wishes.

Best Visiting Time

Early morning is the best time for worship, not only is it quiet with fewer people, but you can also enjoy the beautiful sunrise. Avoid visiting during noon meal times; late afternoon around 4-5 PM during sunset is also suitable for visits.

Precautions

Weather in high mountain areas changes quickly, so please pay attention to weather forecasts at all times. Some temples are located in more remote areas, so it is recommended to go with companions. Prepare some small change for donations to support temple maintenance. Remember to bring enough water as there are fewer shops on the mountain.