After a long-awaited return, the Alishan Forest Railway has roared back to life, rekindling its century-old charm with the full resumption of operations after a 15-year hiatus. The iconic railway, which has traversed the lush mountains of Taiwan since the early 20th century, now embarks on a new journey with the introduction of two enchanting tourist charter trains: the Formosensis and the Vivid Express.
The Formosensis, named after the scientific term for Taiwan’s native flora, is a sensory delight. Its design pays homage to the island’s rich natural heritage, with large cypress wood panels and a striking exterior featuring black window frames trimmed in vibrant red.
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Stepping inside, passengers are greeted by the warm, earthy aroma of Taiwan red cypress and Taiwan cypress, creating an ambiance that resonates with the natural beauty of the surrounding forests.
In contrast, the Vivid Express is a burst of color and creativity. This train, which has been converted from older carriages, captures the spirit of the Alishan Forest Railway with its lively exterior. The interwoven blue, orange, white, and yellow hues evoke a sense of adventure and joy, making it a perfect companion for those looking to explore the scenic landscapes with a dash of whimsy.
The revival of the Alishan Forest Railway is more than just a return to the tracks; it is a celebration of resilience and cultural heritage.
The railway’s history dates back to 1903, when it was first planned under the Government-General of Taiwan.
Construction began in 1906, with the line originally designed to transport logs from the mountainous regions to the plains.
Over the decades, it transformed into a beloved passenger railway, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience its breathtaking views and engineering marvels.
However, the journey has not been without its challenges. In 2009, Typhoon Morakot struck, causing severe damage that brought the railway to a standstill. Despite extensive repairs, Typhoon Dujuan in 2015 dealt another blow, further delaying the railway’s reopening. But this July marked a significant milestone as the new No. 42 tunnel was completed, paving the way for the railway’s full revival.
Even after 15 years of silence, the Alishan Forest Railway has retained its allure. The “Alishan Forest and Railway Cultural Landscape” was recently recognized as Taiwan’s first nationally significant cultural landscape, a testament to its enduring significance in the island’s history and culture.
The railway’s design is a marvel of engineering, employing four unique track construction methods to navigate the challenging mountainous terrain. From spiral routes to zigzag switchbacks and the iconic Ω-type turns, the railway showcases a remarkable blend of industrial prowess and cultural heritage. The specially designed hill-climbing locomotive is another highlight, allowing the train to ascend to the Alishan mountains with ease.
The railway’s cultural impact extends beyond its tracks. Taiwan’s Public Television Service and Japan’s NHK have collaborated to produce a stunning documentary titled “Sacred Trees Forest: Alishan Forest Railway Journey.” Filmed in 8K resolution with a 22.2 multichannel sound system, the documentary captures the majestic beauty of the railway and its surrounding landscapes.
The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency has published a book, “Echoes Along the 2421m Ascent: Travelogue of the Alishan Forest Railway,” available in Chinese, English, and Japanese. This book offers a rich visual and narrative journey through the railway’s history and the natural wonders it traverses.
The revival of the Alishan Forest Railway is part of a broader trend in Taiwan, where railway tourism is experiencing a renaissance. Beyond the forest railway, other historic lines have found new life as tourist attractions.
The former sugar railways, once used to transport sugarcane, have been repurposed, with the Suantou Sugar Factory Cultural Park in Chiayi at the center of this transformation. Taiwan’s first sugar railway now links major national transportation infrastructure with key cultural sites, offering a unique blend of history and modernity.
Meanwhile, vintage trains like the “Breezy Blue Train,” which typically runs on the South Link Line, have captured the imagination of tourists since its launch in 2021. These trains, with their nostalgic charm and scenic routes, are gradually reshaping Taiwan’s railway tourism landscape, inviting visitors to rediscover the island’s beauty at a leisurely pace.
As the Alishan Forest Railway resumes its journey, it carries with it the stories of resilience, innovation, and the timeless allure of Taiwan’s natural and cultural landscapes. With the Formosensis and Vivid Express leading the way, the railway is set to enchant a new generation of travelers, offering a journey that is as much about the destination as it is about the experience along the way.
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