Yongjing Ancient Tree, Sacred wish tree in Alishan Forest Recreation Area, Taiwan
The Yongjing Ancient Tree grows within a dense cypress forest at high elevation, where clouds and mist blanket the landscape throughout the year. The site sits within a protected forest recreation area, allowing visitors to experience the old growth and misty environment.
A pagoda was built in 1935 to honor loggers who died while working in this forest region. The structure marks an important chapter in the area's past connection to timber harvesting and industrial activity.
Local communities view this ancient tree as a spiritual being, and visitors today leave offerings and make wishes at its base as part of ongoing tradition. The practice shows how nature holds a central place in daily spiritual life for many people in the region.
The site is reachable by bus from Chiayi city, and visitors should expect cloudy or misty conditions year-round. Sturdy footwear and a light jacket are helpful for walking on forest paths.
The nearby pagoda features concentric circles in its design that represent roughly 500 years of tree growth. Notches carved into the structure recall the historical logging practices once carried out in this forest.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
