How To Reach Yushan National Park

Traveling to Yushan National Park in Nantou, Taiwan

Yushan National Park, also known as Jade Mountain, is a beloved hiking destination and offers the tallest peak in Taiwan. It is located in Nantou County and accessible by various means. Here’s how you can reach this natural wonder:

By Public Transportation:

Taking the High-Speed Rail (HSR): The nearest HSR station to Yushan National Park is the Chiayi Station. From Chiayi, you can take a bus to Alishan and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Tatajia, the starting point for many of the trails in Yushan National Park.

By Bus: Direct buses to Tatajia are available but relatively infrequent. It's important to check the latest schedules as they may change seasonally or due to demand. Additionally, ensure to reserve your seat in advance if possible, especially during peak season.

By Train: You can also take a train to reach the Chiayi Railway Station and from there proceed by bus to Alishan and Tatajia as described above.

By Private Vehicle:

If you're driving to the park, take Highway 18 to Alishan and then continue on the Alishan Highway to Tatajia. Note that driving in mountainous areas requires careful attention to road conditions and weather. Moreover, during the snowy season, some roads might be closed or require chains on your tires.

By Plane:

The nearest airports are Taipei Taoyuan International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport. From these airports, you can take a train or bus to reach Chiayi and follow the aforementioned routes to Yushan National Park.

Remember:

• Check weather conditions and park advisories before you travel.
• Obtain all necessary permits if you plan to hike, especially for the Yushan Peak Trail.
• During peak season, accommodation and transportation must be booked in advance.

Additional Tips:

For international visitors, consider purchasing a travel SIM card or renting a portable Wi-Fi for ease of navigating and instant updates on public transport schedules. Also, language can be a barrier, so carrying a Taiwanese phrasebook or translation app can be very helpful.