#summervacay
Tucked between **lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and historic streets**, **Chiayi** is the perfect blend of **cultural heritage and natural escapes**. Summer here means **cool highland breezes, vibrant festivals, and unforgettable sunrises**. Here’s how to experience the best of Chiayi this season.
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## **First Impressions: A Slow-Paced Cultural Hub**
Stepping off the train at **Chiayi Station**, I was greeted by **retro baroque buildings, bicycle-lined streets, and the scent of grilled turkey rice** (a local must-eat!). The city feels refreshingly **un-touristy**, with a mix of **Japanese-era charm and bustling night markets**—but the real magic lies just beyond, in the **Alishan highlands**.
🌿 *Summer Tip:* June–August is **hot in the city (28–35°C) but cool (18–25°C) in Alishan**. Pack **layers, sunscreen, and comfy walking shoes**.
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## **Must-Do Summer Experiences**
### **1. Ride the Alishan Forest Railway**
- **Zigzag up to Alishan** on this **century-old narrow-gauge train**, passing **tea fields, waterfalls, and misty forests**.
- **Sunrise Bonus:** Stay overnight in Alishan to catch the **legendary sea of clouds** at **Zhaoping Station**.
### **2. Explore Alishan’s Cool Highlands**
- **Sacred Tree Trail:** Walk among **ancient cypress trees**, some over **2,000 years old**.
- **Shouzhen Temple:** A **serene Zen temple** surrounded by cherry blossoms (yes, they’re green in summer!).
- **Fenqihu Village:** Stop for a **bento box lunch** and stroll the **old railway street**.
### **3. Discover Chiayi’s Historic Core**
- **Chiayi Park:** Climb the **Sun Shooting Tower** for city views and visit the **Koi-filled ponds**.
- **Hinoki Village:** A **Japanese-era lumber village** turned artsy café hub.
- **Baroque-Style Old Streets:** Snap pastel-hued facades on **Zhongshan Road**.
### **4. Feast on Chiayi’s Iconic Eats**
- **Turkey Rice (火雞肉飯):** Try **Fangyuan** or **Liuhe** for the best shredded turkey over rice.
- **Aiyu Jelly (愛玉冰):** A refreshing **lemony dessert** made from wild figs.
- **Night Market Hunts:** **Chiayi Cultural Night Market** for **oyster omelets and coffin bread**.
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## **Hidden Gems**
- **Eryanping Trail:** A **lesser-known Alishan hike** with **tea fields and bamboo forests**.
- **Dongshi Forestry Village:** A **ghost-town-turned-art-district** with vintage vibes.
- **Budai Salt Mountain:** A **mini desert-like landscape** by the coast (45-min drive).
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## **Day Trip Idea: Southern Taiwan**
- **Zengwen Reservoir:** Kayak or bike around Taiwan’s **largest lake**.
- **Tainan:** Just **1 hour away** for **historic temples and beef soup**.
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## **Summer Festivals**
- **Alishan Tea Festival (July):** Sample **high-mountain oolong** with farmers.
- **Chiayi International Band Festival (August):** Free outdoor concerts in the park.
