Not sure if you managed to get your answers. I'm currently (a solo hiker) at Paiyun Lodge. I made my reservations rather, about 2-3 weeks prior departure. Didn't managed to apply for the advanced application for foreigners. Nonetheless, I managed to get my bed space reserved. I understand that those applied for advanced application for foreigners will get their police permit in advance together with bed space reserved at Paiyun Lodge. I didn't obviously. Nonetheless, you can get it onsite. I paid for my lodging onsite as well. It's a painless experience, so don't sweat over it. They didn't ask for proof of me hiking above 3000 metres though I was prepared to show if necessary. Hope this helps.

Hi Cheng, This is how I did it in March. 1. Taking the Taipei to Chiayi high speed train 2. Staying overnight in Chiayi, near the station. 3. Taking the 6am bus to Alishan from Chiayi bus station. 4. Taking the taxi from Alishan bus station to the Visitor Center. If not shared, you have to huggle about the price. Hope that helps. Enjoy!

Hi! how long will you stay in Taiwan? because I think it's better to allot at least 2 days if you're coming from Sun Moon Lake to Yushan National Park. It is possible to get around the park for a daytrip but there are bus schedules/timetables if you're going there using public transportation. You're not going to climb Yushan, right? Because if you do, you need to get permit for that as well and for a dayhike, you need to apply for permit 7 days prior to your entry date.

Hi Huiyiong, I did not travel in Jan/Feb, so I really don't know the answer if there is snow. Cheers.