Ruili

Ruili (瑞里) is a scenic highland village in Meishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan, situated in the Alishan mountain range at an elevation of about 1,000 metres. Known for its bamboo forests, waterfalls, hiking trails, and high-mountain tea plantations, Ruili offers a serene mountain escape. The area is particularly famous for spectacular firefly viewing in spring.

The mountain climate is cool and pleasant year-round, with temperatures 5–10°C lower than on the plains. The best time to visit is March to June for fireflies and comfortable hiking weather. Summer brings afternoon clouds and occasional rain.

By Plane

Chiayi Airport (CYI) is about 55 km west. A taxi takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and costs around NT$1,500–2,000.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Chiayi Station, about 50 km west. From Chiayi, take the Alishan Forest Railway to Jiaoliping, then a connecting bus or taxi to Ruili.

By Car / Road

Ruili is accessible via County Road 166, a winding mountain road. From Chiayi City, drive east for about 1 hour 15 minutes. The road is scenic but has many curves.

Walking is the primary way to explore Ruili's trails and bamboo groves. A car is needed to reach the village. Local guides can arrange transport.

• Ruili Bamboo Forest — Vast groves of bamboo with walking trails.

• Yun Tan Waterfall — A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall in the forest.

• Ruili Tea Plantations — Terraced high-mountain tea fields.

• Firefly habitats — The area is famous for its synchronous firefly displays (April–May).

• Firefly watching — The main attraction. Guided night tours available April to May.

• Hiking — Multiple trails through bamboo forests to waterfalls and viewpoints.

• Tea farm visits — Taste and buy Alishan high-mountain oolong tea.

• Birdwatching — The area hosts diverse mountain bird species.

• Mountain restaurants serve farm-style Taiwanese cuisine featuring bamboo shoots, wild vegetables, and tea-infused rice. NT$200–350 per meal.
• Many homestays include home-cooked dinner and breakfast.

High-mountain oolong tea is the local speciality. Bottled water is recommended.

• Mid-range: Mountain homestays and guesthouses, NT$1,500–3,000 per night. Many offer package deals including meals and firefly tours.
• Budget: Basic rooms in local farmstays, around NT$1,000–1,500.

Alishan high-mountain tea is the premier product. Bamboo shoots and mountain vegetables are also available.

• Alishan — 20 km east (40 min drive). Taiwan's premier mountain scenic area.
• Meishan — 12 km west (30 min drive). The main township below Ruili.
• Fenqihu — 15 km east. A historic mountain railway town on the Alishan line.
• Zhuqi — 25 km west. Gateway town on the Alishan Forest Railway.
• Chiayi City — 55 km west (1 hr 15 min drive). County capital and transport hub.