Text by MOOK Scenic Spots; Photos by Strolling in the Clouds of Alishan
On this bright and sunny day in Alishan, we embarked on a forest railway trip with eager anticipation and joy. From the nostalgic cedar station building at Zhushan to the Fenchihu lunchbox mountain town and the Shuisheiliao coffee train, through participation and experience, we gained a better understanding of the culture of the Alishan Forest Railway and even picked up some tips on railway photography.
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A rare moment of trains passing each other at Shuisheiliao Station. (Photo by Strolling in the Clouds of Alishan)
The long-awaited Alishan Forest Railway themed train began operating weekly every Wednesday in November, allowing travelers to experience the Alishan forestry railway in a unique way.
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Explanation session at Zhushan Station. (Photo by Strolling in the Clouds of Alishan)
Riding the themed train comes with a guide who provides detailed explanations about the culture and heritage features of the Alishan Forest Railway.
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A unique switchback station found only in Alishan. (Photo by Strolling in the Clouds of Alishan)
At Alisha Forest Railway’s unique switchback stations, themed trains passing each other must enter a siding to wait for the mainline train to pass before returning to the main track and continuing their journey.
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Switchback train siding track at Zhangnaoliao. (Photo by Strolling in the Clouds of Alishan)
The switchback train siding track at Zhangnaoliao, lined with rows of ancient camphor trees that are decades old.
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Themed trains passing each other on the siding track at Zhangnaoliao Station. (Photo by Strolling in the Clouds of Alishan)
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