Chukou Visitor Center, Alishan

An Award-Winning Gateway

The Chukou Visitor and Administration Center welcomes travelers heading up Provincial Highway 18 toward the Alishan National Scenic Area. Designed by architect Liao Wei-li, the building's sculptural concrete form was conceived to work with the mountain topography rather than against it, creating what locals call a piece of living landscape architecture.

Where Mountains Meet Design

Since the roadside power lines nearby were buried underground, the skyline behind the center stays remarkably clear, framing the forested ridgelines of Fanlu Township. Egrets and butterflies drift over the open grassland in front of the building, adding to its reputation as a favorite rest stop along the route.

Gateway to Alishan's Wonders

Beyond the visitor center lie Alishan's legendary sea of clouds, its narrow-gauge forest railway, and groves of ancient cypress trees. The center itself, with its café, information counters, and elevated walkway, is where most journeys into the scenic area begin.

A Live Window on Chiayi County

This camera offers a continuous view of the plaza and staircase in front of the Chukou Visitor Center, a public vantage point maintained by the Alishan National Scenic Area Administration for travelers planning their route through the mountains.