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History

Chiayi County, located in southwestern Taiwan, holds a rich historical and cultural heritage that traces back to indigenous roots, early Chinese settlement, and significant developments during the Japanese colonial era and subsequent modernization. The region's indigenous people, primarily from the Tsou tribe, originally inhabited the mountainous areas and lived off the land through hunting, fishing, and agriculture. These indigenous cultures thrived in the lush forests of Chiayi's Alishan Mountain range and remain an integral part of Chiayi’s cultural fabric to this day.

Chinese settlers from Fujian Province began migrating to Chiayi County in the early 17th century, when the Ming Dynasty loyalists sought refuge in Taiwan. The Han Chinese settlers established villages, bringing agricultural skills that transformed the region into an important farming hub. During this period, the area was known as "Tsulosan," named after the Tsou indigenous people. This initial wave of settlers planted rice paddies and cultivated sugarcane, which later became critical to the region's economy.

The influence of the Qing Dynasty further established Chiayi’s economic and cultural foundation. The Qing government recognized the potential of Chiayi’s fertile plains and invested in infrastructure, connecting Chiayi to other parts of Taiwan through the construction of roads. This move accelerated the expansion of Chiayi's agricultural industry, particularly in sugar and rice production. Chiayi was renamed "Kagi" when Taiwan was ceded to Japan following the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895. Under Japanese rule, Chiayi underwent significant modernization, with an emphasis on agricultural and forestry development. The Japanese constructed railway lines, such as the renowned Alishan Forest Railway, which transported timber from the mountains down to the coast. This railway later became one of Chiayi's most famous tourist attractions.

The Japanese era also introduced modern urban planning, educational institutions, and public health systems to Chiayi, elements that laid the foundation for contemporary Chiayi County. The Japanese government promoted tea cultivation, transforming Chiayi’s mountainous areas into productive tea-growing regions. Alishan's high-mountain tea, known for its quality and flavor, remains a prized product of the region. After World War II, when Taiwan was returned to the Republic of China, Chiayi continued to flourish. Taiwan's post-war economic miracle brought rapid industrialization, and the agricultural products of Chiayi County became crucial to Taiwan's export economy.

In recent decades, Chiayi County has become known for its combination of modern industry and tourism, with an increasing emphasis on ecotourism. Alishan, in particular, has gained international fame for its stunning landscapes, ancient forests, and high-altitude views. The county is also renowned for its cultural festivals, such as the Lantern Festival and the Alishan Cherry Blossom Festival, both of which attract thousands of visitors annually. Chiayi has evolved from a center of agriculture and forestry to a vibrant region of industry, tourism, and culture, balancing its historical heritage with modernity.

Climate

Chiayi County experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, which is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, damp winters. The county’s geographical diversity, ranging from coastal plains to high mountain ranges, results in significant climate variation across different regions. The western plains of Chiayi are typically warmer and more humid, while the mountainous areas in the east, particularly around Alishan, experience cooler temperatures and higher levels of rainfall.

Summers in Chiayi County, from June to September, are characterized by high temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F), with high humidity levels due to monsoon winds from the Pacific Ocean. During this period, typhoons are relatively common and can bring heavy rainfall, especially to the lower-lying areas of Chiayi, which are prone to flooding. Typhoon season typically lasts from July through October, and while it brings much-needed water for agriculture, it can also cause damage to infrastructure and local farming.

Winters in Chiayi County, from December to February, are generally mild with average temperatures ranging between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) in the plains, while temperatures in the mountains can drop significantly, sometimes falling below freezing at higher altitudes. Snow is rare but not unheard of in the Alishan area, where tourists occasionally visit to witness snow-capped mountain peaks, a unique sight in subtropical Taiwan.

Rainfall patterns vary greatly between the plains and mountains of Chiayi County. The Alishan region receives abundant rainfall, with the annual precipitation often exceeding 4,000 millimeters (157 inches), making it one of the wettest places in Taiwan. This ample rainfall supports lush forests and thriving ecosystems, contributing to the dense biodiversity of the Alishan area. Conversely, the plains receive less rainfall, with around 1,500 to 2,000 millimeters (59 to 78 inches) per year, which is adequate to support agriculture but often requires careful water management to sustain crop production, especially during drier months.

Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons to visit Chiayi County, as the temperatures are moderate, and rainfall is less intense. During spring, the Alishan Cherry Blossom Festival is a major attraction, drawing visitors to witness the blooming cherry blossoms amidst cool, crisp air. In autumn, the region’s agricultural landscapes, including rice fields and tea plantations, offer a scenic view as crops reach harvest, and the air is clearer due to reduced humidity. These transitional seasons showcase Chiayi's natural beauty and are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.

Geography

Chiayi County spans approximately 1,903 square kilometers (735 square miles), covering a diverse landscape that ranges from coastal plains in the west to towering mountains in the east. The western part of Chiayi County is characterized by fertile plains that have supported agriculture for centuries. This lowland area is part of the Chianan Plain, one of Taiwan's primary agricultural regions, known for its rice paddies, fruit orchards, and sugarcane fields.

The eastern region of Chiayi County is dominated by the Alishan Mountain Range, which is part of Taiwan's Central Mountain Range. Alishan is the most iconic and visited mountain in the area, famous for its dramatic landscapes, ancient cypress trees, and breathtaking sunrises. Alishan reaches elevations of over 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) and provides a natural habitat for diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for ecological tourism. The mountain range also includes several peaks, deep valleys, and pristine rivers, contributing to the area’s scenic beauty and geological diversity.

Chiayi’s rivers, such as the Bazhang River and Puzi River, play a critical role in the region’s ecosystem and agriculture. These rivers originate from the mountainous areas and flow westward, providing water for the plains and supporting the county’s agricultural industry. The rivers are also home to various species of fish and other aquatic life, adding to Chiayi’s biodiversity.

Alishan’s unique geography includes a temperate forest ecosystem, which is home to towering Taiwan red cypress trees that are hundreds of years old. The Alishan Forest Recreation Area, established by the Japanese during the colonial period, has become a major attraction for both local and international tourists. The area is crisscrossed by hiking trails that lead visitors through dense forests, high-altitude tea plantations, and scenic viewpoints. Alishan’s geography not only supports tourism but also facilitates high-mountain agriculture, particularly the cultivation of tea and wasabi, which thrive in the cooler, wetter climates of the highlands.

In addition to its natural attractions, Chiayi County’s geography includes important man-made features, such as the Alishan Forest Railway. Built by the Japanese in the early 20th century, this narrow-gauge railway was originally used for logging but is now a beloved tourist attraction. The railway winds through mountains, valleys, and forests, offering passengers panoramic views of Chiayi’s diverse landscapes. The railway is recognized as one of the most scenic train rides in the world and serves as a reminder of Chiayi’s historical significance in Taiwan’s forestry industry.

Tip for Visitors

For travelers planning to visit Chiayi County, the best way to experience its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage is by taking the Alishan Forest Railway up to the Alishan Recreation Area. This scenic train journey offers unparalleled views of the region's geography, from the low-lying plains to the mist-covered mountains, and is a truly memorable experience. Be sure to visit during spring or autumn for the most favorable weather, allowing you to fully enjoy Chiayi’s natural beauty without the intense summer heat or heavy rainfall.

Interesting Fact: Chiayi's Unique Sunrises

An interesting fact about Chiayi County is the breathtaking sunrise viewed from Alishan. Known as the “Sea of Clouds” phenomenon, this unique spectacle occurs when the morning sun rises over layers of clouds that fill the valleys below, creating a mesmerizing, ethereal landscape. The Alishan sunrise is one of the most famous natural wonders in Taiwan, attracting thousands of visitors each year who wake up before dawn to witness this magical event. This unforgettable sunrise experience, coupled with Chiayi's diverse geography and cultural history, makes the region one of Taiwan’s must-see destinations.