"Hidden Railway Treasure in the Mountains: The Enchanting Sleeper Moon Line"

Photos & Text / murphybj4
 
   The Sleeper Moon Line, a forest railway nestled deep in the mountains, is a gem of Alishan and is hailed as the most beautiful railway in Taiwan. Twenty years ago, the devastating 921 Earthquake shattered it, and subsequent storms caused further collapses. Today, the Sleeper Moon Line remains preserved as it was two decades ago—mysterious and beautiful.

Located within Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, travelers need to purchase an entry ticket to the forest park, then choose either to hike the entire way to Shihhou Station along the Sleeper Moon Line or take a train from Alishan Railway Station to Zhapingshan Station before beginning their walk. This offers the chance to experience the charm of the Alishan Forest Railway.

One of the biggest advantages of taking the Alishan Forest Railway to Zhapingshan Station is not only the chance to ride the historic railway but also the opportunity for great photos. After all, such a uniquely styled train isn’t something you see every day, and the number of passengers isn't very high, giving you a good chance to have a car to yourself. However, the journey is relatively short, so make sure to soak in the experience while aboard.

The standout feature of the Sleeper Moon Line is that travelers can walk along the original railway tracks where trains once ran, surrounded by dense forests and tree-covered hills. In this untouched and unpolluted environment, you can enjoy the forest’s natural phytoncides and immerse yourself in the most authentic forest bathing experience.

In addition to the gentle forest trails, the route also includes old open tunnels originally built for the trains. Part of one has now become a collapsed cliff, but thanks to previous efforts, there are now ropes and steel bars to help hikers pull themselves up and find support. Still, the steep cliffs beside the path are intimidating—just one misstep could truly be a lifelong regret.