Taiwan’s Epic Train Journey Through 50 Tunnels

Imagine a train ride that’s not just a journey, but a trip back in time. Welcome aboard the Alishan Forest Railway, where you get to enjoy a slice of history, and maybe get a neck ache from peering out the windows at the wild scenery.

The railway, a relic from the days of Japanese colonial rule, has been spruced up and reopened in 2024 thanks to some serious determination—and a bit of British charm from Michael Reilly. It’s a long way from Wales, but hey, trains are universal, right?

The railway first started chugging along in 1900, using Shay locomotives to haul timber. Good times. But now, it’s all about the views and the nostalgia of riding through 50 bridges and 77 tunnels. It’s like a roller coaster, minus the screams—unless you count the occasional squeal from the brakes.

The route is a beast, winding through mountains with switchbacks and spirals. And let’s not forget the engineering hurdles: landslides, earthquakes, and the odd tunnel that seems to appear out of nowhere. Yet, against all odds, it’s here. Still running, still impressing.

Passengers start their journey at Chiayi Station, with a ticket costing about NT$540. Not exactly pocket change, but worth every penny for the bamboo forests and a peek at flying squirrels. Don’t blink, or you might miss them.

Start your journey at Chiayi Station for NT$540—worth it for bamboo forests and a glimpse of flying squirrels.

Stations along the route are not just stops; they’re mini-adventures. Lumachan and Fenqihu have shaken off the dust, offering a taste of local life and flavors. Bento boxes, anyone?

And let’s talk mascots. Only in Taiwan would a cap-wearing fiberglass deer be the face of a railway. But hey, who doesn’t love a deer that screams “longevity” and “I’m connected to cedar forests”?

It’s quirky, it’s memorable, and it’s a symbol of the railway’s enduring spirit. Whether you’re there for the history, the engineering marvels, or just the chance to brag about riding through tunnels and over bridges, the Alishan Forest Railway delivers. And throws in a bit of heart for good measure.

So, there you have it. The Alishan Forest Railway—Taiwan’s rollercoaster through tunnels and over bridges—offers more than just a ticket to ride. It’s a journey back in time, where history and nature flirt shamelessly at every twist and turn. Let’s be real, it’s not just a train; it’s a life line, a window to the past, and a wild ride all rolled into one. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to be part of that adventure?