Roaming in the Tea Plantation: From Shizhuo Trails to Fenqihu - Mt. Dadong Trail
Alishan is one of Taiwan's most iconic destinations, celebrated for its stunning landscapes and tranquil forests. In addition to the well-known tourist attractions, Alishan features lesser-known hiking trails that offer serenity and breathtaking views, ideal for those seeking a more peaceful experience.
In this guide, you will discover how to explore hidden gems such as the Shizhuo Trails and the Fenqihu (Fenchihu) - Mt. Dadong Trail. Moreover, these trails can be easily connected without the need for driving. Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply looking for a quiet escape into nature, these routes provide an opportunity to experience the enchanting beauty of Alishan at your own pace.
If you have sufficient time, consider visiting Fenqihu Old Street, the highest elevated old street in Taiwan, and trying the Fenqihu bento (lunch box).
Affiliate disclaimer: Taiwan Hikes may include affiliate links. When you purchase through these links, you support our ability to continue providing FREE content — at no additional cost to you.
Table of Contents:
- Trail Information: Shizhuo Trails System, and Fenqihu-Mt. Dadong Trail
- Map/GPX Data of Hike from Shizhuo to Fenqihu
- My Hiking Adventure: From Shizhuo's Mist Trail to Mt. Dadong in Fenqihu
- About Fenqihu (Fenchihu), Mt. Dadong, and Shizhuo
- Alishan Hiking Guide: Plan Your Trip with Transport, Stays & Itineraries (Coming Soon)
- Related Posts
Uncover Taiwan's hidden gems - hotels, restaurants, transport, and more
Trail Information: Shizhuo Trails System, and Fenqihu-Mt. Dadong Trail
Trail Name: The Shizhuo Trails – Mist Trail, Tea Trail, Cloud Trail, Sunset Trail, and Sakura Trail
Distance:
Mist Trail 霧之道 (800 meters long),
Tea Trail 茶之道(1,860 meters long),
Cloud Trail 雲之道 (700 meters long),
Sunset Trail 霞之道 (530 meters long),
Sakura (Cherry blossom) Trail 櫻之道 (990 meters long)
Best Time to Go: All seasons.
Permits: Not required
Difficulty Level:
Mist Trail 霧之道 (800 meters long),
Tea Trail 茶之道(1,860 meters long),
Cloud Trail 雲之道 (700 meters long),
Sunset Trail 霞之道 (530 meters long),
Sakura (Cherry blossom) Trail 櫻之道 (990 meters long)
Best Time to Go: All seasons.
Permits: Not required
Difficulty Level:
Additional Information:
- Those trails are not connected, and many junctions exist in this area. A map is a must before the hike, even though it's not difficult to navigate.
Trail Name: Fenqihu – Mt. Dadong Trail
Distance: 2.7 – 5.3 km (1.7 – 3.3 miles) according to Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency's map
Days/Hours Needed: 3-5 hours, depending on which route you take.
Best Time to Go: All seasons. Check to see if the trail is open before you go.
Permits: Not required
Difficulty Level:
Days/Hours Needed: 3-5 hours, depending on which route you take.
Best Time to Go: All seasons. Check to see if the trail is open before you go.
Permits: Not required
Difficulty Level:
Peaks to Reach
- Mt. Dadong 大凍山, 糞箕山, 畚箕山, 1,976 meters (6,483 feet) above sea level. There is no triangulation stone at the summit. There is an overlook to oversee Yushan and other mountains. Mt. Dadong is also listed as No. 60 on Taiwan's Xiao Baiyue (Minor 100 Peaks).
Additional Information:
- There are several routes and junctions along this trail, so having a map is essential before you go hiking.
- The weather can change quickly, and it tends to become cloudy around noon. Therefore, it is highly recommended to arrive at the trails early if you want to enjoy the best views.
Your support empowers Taiwan Hikes to create more FREE content, making your hiking adventures in Taiwan even more enjoyable. Click "Buy Me A Coffee" or use our affiliate links to support.
Map/GPX Data of Hike from Shizhuo to Fenqihu
GPX Track From My Hike
Click Menu in the map to download, print, or share the map.
You can see more options after clicking the Play button.
Click
to change the speed to meet your condition.
You can see more options after clicking the Play button.
Click
to change the speed to meet your condition.
Uncover Taiwan's hidden gems - hotels, restaurants, transport, and more
My Hiking Adventure: From Shizhuo's Mist Trail to Mt. Dadong in Fenqihu
Brief itinerary: Xiding Bus Stop ➔ Mist Trail Trailhead ➔ Junction to Tea Trail Mt. Leye ➔ Junction to Cloud Trail and Take Bazihtong Forest Road Branch Mt. Pili ➔ Triangular Bench ➔ Mt. Dadong Trail ➔ Stone Lion and Elephant ➔ Junction and toilets ➔ Mt. Dadong Outlook ➔ Return to the junction and toilets. Take the right route ➔ Fenqihu-Mt. Dadong Trailhead ➔ Fenqihu
My Advice:
- If you plan to catch the 3:00 PM bus from Fenqihu, be sure to keep track of your time. I hiked some sections faster than average, so adjust your pace as needed. If you miss the last bus, you can walk 5.3 km (3.3 miles) from Fenqihu to the Xiding Bus Stop on the Alishan Highway.
- I started early, walking from my hotel in Eryanping to catch the sunrise. Although I didn't find the perfect spot, the sea of clouds in the valley was stunning. When the first bus arrived, I took it to the Shizhuo Stop and then walked to Siding (Xiding) Elementary School. Alternatively, you can start the hike directly from the Xiding Bus Stop.
- While hiking, please avoid stepping on or damaging the tea trees. There are many signs reminding visitors not to enter the tea fields for photos, so it's important to respect the local farmers and their work.
- Initially, I intended to explore all the trails in Shizhuo. However, after tackling numerous stairs, I decided to take a different route back. I checked the map and realized I could hike to Mt. Dadong and Fenqihu while still making it in time for the bus.
Mist Trail: Hiking Among Tea Plantations
06:52 I got off at the Shizhuo Stop and picked up something to eat from the convenience store. Then, I walked along the Alishan Highway, where I encountered several spots to enjoy the beautiful views.
07:49 Upon reaching a junction with multiple signs, I noticed two blue signs: one pointed to Fenchihu (Fenqihu) Village 奮起湖, and the other directed me to the Homestay Area 63.6A 石棹民宿區, located near the 63.4 km mark on the Alishan Highway. I turned left.
07:55 After navigating a steep road, I spotted a rectangular sign that read "Mist Trail 霧之道步道."
I turned right at this sign. Soon after, I came across another map indicating the Mist Trail and followed the arrow, turning right again.
Before long, I was greeted by steep stairs surrounded by lush green tea plantations. At the start of my hike, the weather was sunny, and I could see a sea of clouds in the distance, indicating it was likely cloudy in downtown Chiayi.
On the opposite side, layers of mountains framed the tea plantations, creating stunning views. I made several stops along the way to take photos and film videos.
Uncover Taiwan's hidden gems - hotels, restaurants, transport, and more
Tea Trail with Amazing Bamboo and Peacock Pine Forest
08:15 I arrived at the stairs to the Tea Trail, where the tea farms transitioned into bamboo woods. This section was relatively mild compared to the Mist Trail, and I discovered some gaps that allowed me to see the mountains through the tea plantations.
08:23 I reached the junction of the Mist Trail and Tea Trail, marked with signposts indicating Shihjhuo (Shizhuo) 1.5 km, Dinghu 3.1 km, and the Sunrise Watching Platform, which was 900 meters away. I decided to follow the path to the Sunrise Watching Platform.
08:33 At this point, I came across another junction. There are many junctions here! 09:01 I reached Mt. Leye 樂野山, 1,699 meters above sea level. Unfortunately, there was no view from this spot.
This section was very flat, and I noticed several chairs available for resting. The bamboo woods lined one side of the trail, while slender peacock pines grew on the other, creating a perfect spot for a break. I started this hike alone until I met a German hiker here. The solitude made this hike even better.
09:20 I arrived at the junction that connects to the Cloud Trail. Since it was still early to head back, I chose the path to the Peizaitong Forest Trail (Pazihtong Trail). Within a few minutes, I encountered yet another junction, with a sign directing me to Mt. Dadong, a 60-minute hike away. So, I took that route.
09:38 I spotted some stairs along with a sign indicating that Mt. Pili was 0.3 km away.
09:58 I had reached a pavilion near Mt. Pili, 1,865 meters above sea level. I'm not entirely sure about the accuracy of the 0.3 km distance, as it took me 20 minutes to get there. I decided to take a long break at the pavilion.
While resting, I noticed a small trail with a sign warning about the rough terrain ahead. I later checked a map and found out that this path leads to the Eighteen Arhats Caves (十八羅漢洞). However, the trail to those caves is currently CLOSED due to landslides.
After my 20-minute break, I took the stairs down, as I really didn't want to retrace the same stairs back up.
Mt. Dadong with Bad Timing: No Views
10:21 I reached yet another junction on this hike and noticed a triangular bench marked on the map, known as Triangular Bench 三角椅. This hike may have the most junctions I've encountered in the past eight years. The signs at the junction indicated that Dinhu Parking Lot was 1.2 km away, Mt. Pili was 300 m, and Hueitou Peak was 800 m.
I took the trail next to a large sign about the animals and plants on the Mt. Dadong Trail. Despite the thick Peacock Pine forest, I could still see the sky. Unfortunately, the sunny blue sky I had seen earlier was now replaced by clouds. I felt that I might not be able to enjoy the scenic views from Mt. Dadong.
The flat section of the trail didn't last long, as I soon had to climb stairs again. Before continuing, I stopped to check out the Stone Lion and Elephant 石獅象. According to the sign, these huge boulders were once beneath the seabed, and the sea-eroded holes on their surfaces are proof of this history.
10:43 I arrived at another junction with a pavilion and much-needed toilets. Before I rushed into one, I noticed a sign at the sink indicating there was no water available. Thankfully, I found a large bucket collecting rainwater, along with a scoop to use.
The sign at the junction indicated that the distance to Mt. Dadong was 630 meters. After checking the trail, it was clear that more stairs awaited me.
11:07 After huffing and puffing, I finally reached the Mt. Dadong Outlook. As I had suspected, the fantastic views were hidden behind thick clouds and fog. It was a shame I couldn't see the breathtaking scenery from the peak, but I was happy to have made it this far.
Mt. Dadong in Fenqihu is also listed as No. 60 Xiao Baiyue (Minor 100 Peaks) in Taiwan. Clearly, this is a popular destination, especially with the large pavilion capable of accommodating many hikers. I took a 30-minute break to have lunch, and as I prepared to leave, the clouds remained in the sky.
Decided to Explore Fenqihu
After returning to the junction and the restrooms, I debated whether to head to Fenqihu. I checked my map, and it didn't seem too far to reach the trailhead; the road to Fenqihu was about 3 km long. I decided to take a chance.
The sky on this side was much clearer than on the Mt. Dadong side, and I could see the blue sky and mountains.
12:10 It took me 40 minutes to reach the Fenqihu-Mt. Dadong Trailhead. If you're driving, there's a parking lot nearby. I took Chiayi Road 155 and headed to Fenqihu as quickly as possible. The route is mostly downhill from the Mt. Dadong Trailhead to Fenqihu, so it wasn't too difficult.
When I reached the junction to Chiayi County Highway 169, I saw signs pointing to the Fenchihu-Rueili Historic Trail (奮瑞古道) and the Reili-Taihe Historic Trail (瑞太古道). Those trails are for another day.
As I was about to turn toward Fenqihu, I noticed some stairs with signs mentioning the Fenqi Trail 奮起步道, Shinto Shrine Ruins 神社遺址, and the Luding Giant Tree 鹿鼎巨木. I decided to take a detour to check them out.
I followed the stairs, which led me to the Wooden Horse Logging Track 木馬棧道.
12:57 I arrived in Fenqihu, the highest elevated old street in Taiwan. I was thrilled that I had two hours to explore Fenqihu.
Uncover Taiwan's hidden gems - hotels, restaurants, transport, and more —
About Fenqihu (Fenchihu), Mt. Dadong, and Shizhuo
The Highest Old Street in Taiwan: Fenqihu Old Street
Fenqihu, located in Zhonghe Village, Zhuqi Township, Chiayi County 嘉義縣竹崎鄉中和村, sits at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, with a low-lying center resembling a dustpan, it was originally named "Benzihu," which means Dustpan Lake (where "lake" refers to a basin in the Taiwanese dialect).
Once a key stop on the Alishan Forest Railway, Fenqihu is renowned for its old street, traditional railway lunchboxes (Fenqihu bento), and unique square bamboo. The village naturally developed around the train station, serving as a hub for nearby communities.
The houses in Fenqihu are built along the hillside, and just below the train station lies an old street that is 500 meters long. This street features shops offering local specialties such as bento boxes, tofu, and traditional pastries, making it a must-visit destination for travelers heading to Alishan.
With a history spanning over a century, Fenqihu's old street is also recognized as the highest-altitude old street in Taiwan.
Fenqihu Mt. Dadong
Mt. Dadong, also known as Fenji Mountain (糞箕山 or 畚箕山), stands at an elevation of 1,976 meters above sea level in Fenqihu, Alishan Township. Recognized as one of Taiwan's "Minor 100 Peaks (Xiao Baiyue)," this mountain features well-maintained trails that are part of the National Forest Trail system. There are four marked routes available to accommodate various fitness levels and schedules, allowing hikers to enjoy stunning forest scenery.
At the summit, an observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views, along with a pavilion for rest. From this vantage point, you can take in sweeping sceneries of the Yushan and Tashan, the Alishan Recreation Area, and more. It's an ideal location for witnessing sunrises and the beautiful sea of clouds.
Shizhuo or Shizhao
Shizhuo, sometimes called Shizhao, has two legends associated with its name. One story speaks of a giant, table-shaped stone left by immortals, which would emit sounds to warn locals of approaching typhoons or earthquakes. This phenomenon earned the area its name, Stone Table 石桌.
Another tale recounts how early Han settlers observed the Tsou people using stone tables as altars for spiritual rituals, which also inspired the name.
With the construction of the Alishan Highway, Shizhuo became an essential crossroads and rest stop. Today, it is famous as the birthplace of Alishan High Mountain Tea, making it a must-visit destination for tea lovers and travelers alike.
Alishan Hiking Guide: Plan Your Trip with Transport, Stays & Itineraries (Coming Soon)
Public Transport
- Take Alishan Route A (7329、7329A) from Chiayi High-speed Raiway Station.
- Take Alishan Route B (7322C or 7322D) from Chiayi Train Station.
- Take Kuokuang Bus 1835 from Taipei Bus Station.
- Take Sun Moon Lake Alishan Route (Bus 6739).
Where to Stay in Alishan
Accommodations within the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area are highly sought after but often fully booked. As an alternative, consider staying in Fenqihu, though keep in mind that public transport options to this area are limited.
For more flexibility, you might want to look into staying in Shizhuo 石棹, Siding 隙頂, or Eryanping 二延平. These locations provide convenient access to hiking trails and scenic spots. Support Taiwan Hikes by booking through our affiliate link on KKday to make your trip even more rewarding!
How Many Days Should I Stay in Alishan: Alishan Hiking Guide
Driving to Alishan takes at least three hours, so it is advisable to stay for at least two days. To explore the hidden beauty of Alishan through its breathtaking hiking trails, which feature misty mountains, lush tea plantations and more, we have created a guide to help you save time on research and planning.
This guide highlights the best routes for discovering Alishan's natural wonders, offering options ranging from tranquil paths to challenging climbs. Whether you want to chase the sunrise, trek historic trails, or connect with nearby peaks, let this guide be your gateway to an unforgettable adventure in Taiwan.
Your support empowers Taiwan Hikes to create more FREE content, making your hiking adventures in Taiwan even more enjoyable. Click "Buy Me A Coffee" or use our affiliate links to support.
Disclaimer:
All content provided is for inspirational and informational purposes only. Creating, using, hiking, or traveling with Taiwan Hikes' suggested services or itineraries is at your own risk. Please use your best judgment and follow all safety precautions, as Taiwan Hikes and Anusha Lee are not liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from using this information.
Please also note that Taiwanese government agencies tend to change their URLs without bothering to redirect to the new ones. As a result, you will find some external sites on the Taiwan Hikes website are not working from time to time. Taiwan Hikes will try to update those URLs if possible.
Taiwan Hikes is not responsible for the content of external sites.
All content provided is for inspirational and informational purposes only. Creating, using, hiking, or traveling with Taiwan Hikes' suggested services or itineraries is at your own risk. Please use your best judgment and follow all safety precautions, as Taiwan Hikes and Anusha Lee are not liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from using this information.
Please also note that Taiwanese government agencies tend to change their URLs without bothering to redirect to the new ones. As a result, you will find some external sites on the Taiwan Hikes website are not working from time to time. Taiwan Hikes will try to update those URLs if possible.
Taiwan Hikes is not responsible for the content of external sites.
