Chiayi | Exclusive for Railway Fans: Alishan Forestry Railway Cultural Experience | 2-Day Tour

Want to know how train operators assemble carriages? Want to glimpse the process of repairing and maintaining trains? For serious railway enthusiasts, this tour is a must-do! The Alishan Forest Railway, originally planned and built by the Japanese in 1906 for the transportation of timber, is Taiwan's only remaining high-altitude forest railway.

This two-day, one-night tour begins at Beimen Station on the Alishan Forest Railway. You'll be guided through on-site shunting operations, visit the repair shop to see dismantled train parts, learn about the characteristics of different rolling stock, learn about retired trains, and learn about their construction methods and unique features. You'll also be treated to some of the most exciting photo opportunities for railway enthusiasts.

The next morning, board the Zhushan Line of the Alishan Forest Railway to Zhushan Station, Taiwan's highest railway station, and enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Alishan sunrise.

- About Accommodation | Alishan National Forest Recreation Area-
#Hotel: Alishan Pavilion or similar in the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area. Please book your room based on availability.
# Accommodation Type: The website price is for a double room
# Occupancy: 2 adults
# Additional charges apply for triple/quadruple room accommodation (no room sharing).

- About Prices | Exclusive for Railway Fans: Alishan Forestry Railway Culture and Sports 2-Day Tour -
# Infants under 2 years old: Insurance and administrative fees only
# Children 2-6 years old: Do not occupy a bed, but count towards meals, parking, activities, and insurance
# Children 7 years old and older: The same adult rate applies

- Attractions -
▲ Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
The Alishan Mountains are one of Taiwan's five major mountain ranges. However, Alishan is not a single mountain; it refers to the entire mountainous area. The area has been home to abundant red cypress and Taiwan cypress trees since ancient times. From 1912, it was Taiwan's largest forestry operation, a position it held until the late 1960s. Currently, there are two sections of giant tree trails within the recreation area. Strolling along the trails, you can admire the 36 remaining giant red cypress trees, reminiscing about the grandeur and sacredness of the sacred forest.

▲ Alishan Forest Railway: On-site shunting operations at Beimen Station
The Alishan Forest Railway is currently the highest narrow-gauge mountain railway in Asia. It still uses traditional manual manpower to connect trains. Manual connection requires a lot of manpower and tests the operator's skill and experience to successfully complete the shunting operation. The operators' every move, their focused demeanor, and the sounds of the connections between cars are a favorite among railway fans.

▲ Alishan Forest Railway Depot Park

Located near Chiayi Railway Station, the Alishan Forest Railway Depot Park includes a motor depot and repair shop, housing a diverse collection of locomotives and plant equipment. You can get up close and personal with several retired steam and diesel locomotives, motor coaches, freight cars, and the circular turntable used to change locomotive direction. This is a must-see attraction for railway enthusiasts.

▲ Cypress Forest Village

Originally built as a residence for officials from the Alishan Forestry Bureau, it was primarily constructed of Alishan cypress wood and served as a place for communication and lodging. The village covers approximately 3.4 hectares and features nearly 30 Japanese-style wooden buildings, each brick and tile reflecting the centuries-old history of forestry workers. A visit offers a glimpse into the early days of Alishan's forestry boom.

▲ Shuishan Giant Tree Trail

Combining the remains of the former Alishan Forest Railway with the thousand-year-old sacred trees, a stroll along the Shuishan Trail feels like walking through a forest time tunnel. Walking slowly along the railway trail, flanked by plantations of red cypress and Japanese cedar, the fresh air is relaxing. The deserted platforms and the ancient iron bridge add to the romantic atmosphere. The trail ends at the 2,700-year-old Shuishan Giant Tree. Immersed in the tranquility of the forest, still thriving with life, it's a breathtaking sight.