Zhaoping Park Introduction
Zhaoping Park, at an elevation of 2,274 meters, is the vista with the most expansive views among the cherry blossom viewing spots in Alishan. After disembarking at the Zhaoping Station on the Alishan Forest Railway's Zhushan Line, visitors are greeted by the Zhaoping Nature Park, where the highest point offers a distant view of the Alishan mountain scenery. Originally, this area was a logging village established by residents of Zhongzheng Village in Alishan, which later became the busiest shopping and lodging street due to the increase in tourists. However, a devastating fire in the winter of the 65th year of the Republic of China destroyed more than a hundred houses and the entire Zhaoping business district. Following this, the Forestry Bureau redeveloped and planned Zhaoping Park. Consequently, almost all the cherry blossom trees in the park were planted after this fire. Although they do not have the 70-80 years of age like the Yoshino cherry trees in other viewing spots, this area boasts the highest density of cherry blossom trees in Alishan, with approximately 600 trees, making it the most densely populated spot for flower viewers. Zhaoping Park covers a vast area and is home to a wide variety of alpine plants, serving as a base for various floral species in Alishan. It is a place to enjoy blossoms almost year-round. Besides the mountain cherry and Yoshino cherry, visitors can also find numerous camellias, hydrangeas, forest-style rhododendrons, golden collinsonia, and weeping crabapples throughout the seasons. Even when the mountain cherries have all bloomed, late-flowering mountain cherries often quietly make an appearance. In addition to being a great spot for flower viewing, Zhaoping Park is also ideal for birdwatching. The park features picturesque landscaping, with pathways and small bridges for visitors to enjoy, and the passing Alishan train from Zhaoping Station adds to the charm of the beautifully reconstructed environment, making it well worth a visit.
