Ancient Forest Trails × Nostalgic Old Street – Wulai of Southern Taiwan, Fenqihu, a Place to Forget Your Worries

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Located as a midway station on the Alishan Forest Railway, Fenqihu is famed for its railway bento boxes, old street charm, and natural scenery. Known as the “Wulai of Southern Taiwan,” the “lake” in Fenqihu actually refers to a low-lying area in Hokkien, and there is no actual lake here. It is also called “Fenji Lake” due to its resemblance to a winnowing basket.

In the early days, steam trains on the forest railway moved at a slow pace, making mealtime a significant challenge. To address this daily necessity, the bento industry emerged, earning Fenqihu its reputation as the “Bento Kingdom.”

Besides the cultural charm of Fenqihu Old Street and the railway station, the area’s six scenic spots are another major highlight of visiting Fenqihu. Among them, the forest hiking trails and nostalgic old street offer a chance to forget worries and immerse oneself in historical and cultural experiences.