The center is built on the site of a former railway station stop on the historic Alishan Forest Railway.
It hosts a significant collection of Formosan sika deer in an enclosed conservation area.
The site includes a native plant botanical garden designed to mimic the natural biodiversity of southwestern Taiwan.
It serves as a professional training and environmental education venue sanctioned by the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency.
Chukou Nature Center serves as the primary gateway to the Alishan National Scenic Area, functioning as an environmental education hub. The site features an extensive native plant garden showcasing species endemic to the low-altitude ecosystem of Chiayi County. It integrates historical context, including the remnants of the Alishan Forest Railway, which formerly moved timber from mountain forests to the plains. The center provides detailed geological and ecological exhibits focused on the transition between the plains and the Central Mountain Range. It houses the Chukou Administration Office, which oversees regional forest protection efforts. Visitors can access multiple walking trails that traverse restored wetlands and forested areas. The facility acts as a key stop for those transitioning from urban Chiayi to high-altitude mountain environments.
The elevated boardwalk overlooking the restored wetlands with the mountain range in the background.
Bring binoculars, as the restored wetlands attract diverse local bird species throughout the year.
Visit the native plant garden first to learn how to identify common local flora before heading up to the higher altitudes of Alishan.
Check the weather status for the Alishan mountain range before arriving, as conditions at the center can differ significantly from the peaks.
Attempting to hike the entire surrounding mountain region in a single visit without proper equipment or planning.
Closed on Mondays for maintenance; if a national holiday falls on a Monday, the center typically remains open.
Maintain quiet in the conservation areas to avoid disturbing the wildlife; do not feed the deer.
