It is a Chamaecyparis formosensis, a species endemic to Taiwan's high-altitude cloud forests.
The tree began growing during the late Warring States period of Chinese history, roughly around 300 BCE.
It is officially ranked as the second-generation 'Alishan Sacred Tree' following the 1998 collapse of the original giant tree.
The tree's immense size is attributed to the high humidity and consistent precipitation levels found in the Alishan range.
The wooden walkway surrounding the base is elevated to prevent visitors from compressing the sensitive surface root system.
The Xianglin Giant Tree is a 2,300-year-old Formosan red cypress located within the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area. It stands 45 meters tall with a trunk circumference of 12.3 meters. It serves as a central landmark on the Giant Tree Trail, which connects various ancient conifers in the forest. The tree is recognized as a living relic of Taiwan's primary mountain cloud forest ecosystems. It replaced the original 'Alishan Sacred Tree' as the primary attraction after that tree was felled in the late 20th century. The surrounding area features elevated wooden boardwalks designed to protect the root systems of ancient trees from soil compaction. The tree is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,200 meters, contributing to its cool, mist-prone environment.
From the lower observation deck on the boardwalk looking upward to capture the full scale of the trunk against the forest canopy.
Bring a light waterproof jacket, as the high-altitude climate causes frequent afternoon fog and sudden temperature drops.
Wear hiking shoes with good grip, as the wooden boardwalks become slippery when covered in mist or morning dew.
Combine your visit with the Ciyun Temple nearby for a quieter experience away from the main tourist paths.
Do not wander off the marked paths into the forest undergrowth, as the terrain is steep and prone to erosion.
Access may be restricted during severe weather conditions, such as typhoons or heavy fog, which occur periodically.
Stay strictly on the designated wooden boardwalks to avoid damaging tree roots; noise should be kept to a minimum to respect the forest environment.
