The tree is estimated to be approximately 2,700 years old, dating back to the late Zhou Dynasty in China.
The tree was discovered relatively recently compared to other Alishan landmarks, leading to the construction of the Shuishan Trail.
The trail follows the former route of the Alishan Forest Railway's Shuishan Line, which was used for timber transport during the Japanese colonial period.
The tree species, Chamaecyparis formosensis, is endemic to the high-mountain cloud forests of Taiwan.
The wooden bridge on the trail was designed to mimic the historical style of the railway bridges used by early logging trains.
The giant tree is situated near the source of the Shuishan Creek, which historically served as a water supply for the Alishan village.
The tree's massive size earned it the nickname 'Shuishan Giant Tree' due to its proximity to the creek.
Unlike the more central Alishan giant trees, the Shuishan specimen is reached via a longer, less-developed forest trail.
The Shuishan Giant Tree is an ancient Taiwan red cypress, Chamaecyparis formosensis, estimated to be over 2,700 years old. It stands at an elevation of approximately 2,200 meters within the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area. The site is accessible via the Shuishan Trail, which follows the path of a former logging railway line. The tree reaches a height of 30 meters and has a trunk circumference of 15.6 meters. It is considered one of the largest and oldest living specimens in the Alishan forest system. The trail provides an alternative, quieter route compared to the main Alishan giant tree boardwalks. The path includes a restored wooden cantilever bridge spanning a forest ravine. The area is characterized by misty high-altitude mountain vegetation.
The restored wooden railway bridge shortly before arriving at the base of the giant tree.
Wear high-traction hiking footwear as the trail can be damp and slippery due to frequent mountain mist.
Carry a light rain jacket or waterproof layer, as weather in the Alishan region changes rapidly.
Bring a personal water bottle, as there are no refreshment stalls along the forest trail.
Attempting the hike in late afternoon when visibility drops and temperatures plummet significantly.
Stay on marked trails to protect the shallow root systems of ancient cypresses. Do not touch or lean on the bark.
