One-Eyed Train and Policeman Sky Lanterns: An Unconventional Pingxi Travel Guide Revealed

 
▲ The elegantly designed Sky Lantern Police Station has become Pingxi’s newest iconic landmark. (Photo / Provided by New Taipei City Tourism and Travel Bureau, the same below)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

It’s the love it receives that makes Pingxi a classic destination in Taiwan’s travel scene. But by creating your own unique travel experience within the classics, you can craft an “above-and-beyond” personalized route — making your Pingxi trip truly different.

First, many travelers take charming trains to reach Pingxi. For those who have already ridden the Pingxi Line train, why not take advantage of theTaiwan Tourist Shuttle – Muzha Pingxi Linefor its convenience in linking three famous attractions — Pingxi, Shenkeng, and Muzha — in one go, allowing you to enjoy “eating mochi in Muzha, tasting tofu in Shenkeng, and releasing sky lanterns in Pingxi,” satisfying your eyes, soul, and even your picky taste buds all at once.

▲ The adorable mochi leads the way: eat mochi in Muzha, taste tofu in Shenkeng, and release sky lanterns in Pingxi.

Beyond experiencing the “Taiwan Tourist Shuttle” or the Pingxi Line train, don’t miss theXinpingxi Coal Mine Museum Parkand its “One-Eyed Train.”

As the Pingxi Line was once a vital transport route for the coal mining industry, stations like Jingting, Pingxi, and Shiding still preserve abundant remnants and cultural heritage of coal mining development. The “One-Eyed Train” is a tourist train converted from mining carts once used to transport coal. Its unique design has made it a favorite among visitors, while its age of over 70 years and status as Taiwan’s first electrified coal transport train have also earned it a treasured place in the hearts of rail enthusiasts. To experience history and local culture, don’t miss this historic “One-Eyed Train.”

▲ The one-eyed tourist train is a key witness to Pingxi’s coal mining history.

For those taking the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle, the first prominent landmark upon entering Pingxi District is the “New Taipei City Police Department Ruifang Precinct Pingxi Substation,” which officially opened on March 14. Unlike the rigid designs of typical police stations, the Pingxi Substation cleverly incorporates the local sky lantern culture into its architecture, presenting an elegant lantern-like form, hence being affectionately called the “Sky Lantern Police Station” by locals.

From 6pm to 9pm every evening, the Sky Lantern Police Station also presents hourly light shows, allowing visitors to better understand the origin of sky lanterns and the local characteristics of Pingxi through the blend of technology and tradition. Those who love releasing sky lanterns can also write their wishes and use high-tech methods at the police station to release a sky lantern as a blessing, experiencing the fun of a “Policeman Sky Lantern.”

▲ With high-tech features, the Sky Lantern Police Station offers a variety of visual transformations.

The New Taipei City Government Tourism Bureau also kindly reminds visitors that combining the modern-looking Sky Lantern Police Station with the surrounding old street scenery and natural landscapes can result in stunning photo opportunities. Particularly good spots include the small plaza under the station stairs, the platform across the street from the station, the viewing platform next to the station, the slope of Pingxi Guesthouse, Pingjing Bridge, and the Shiding Station platform. On a clear afternoon, the glass surface of the police station reflects the surrounding scenery, creating a delicate scene beloved by photography enthusiasts.

Also, when taking night photos with the Sky Lantern Police Station, remember to use a flash or other light source to illuminate faces. You might also experiment with silhouette photography to achieve a unique visual style or even capture some hilarious KUSO shots.

▲ Through the hourly light shows, visitors can better appreciate Pingxi’s history.

Speaking of the mining of Jiufen’s gold and Pingxi’s coal, both are closely tied to the Taiwan Coal Mining Corporation (Taiyang Mining Company) of the Keelung Yen family. Aside from the usual old streets visitors flock to, the Pingxi Guesthouse and staff dormitory complex in Jingting, with its serene environment and strong Japanese architectural style, have become a hidden gem for photography enthusiasts. The Pingxi Guesthouse has also been a filming location for many movies and idol dramas. Take a closer look inside to soak in the charm of stepping back in time and stepping into movie scenes.

For more exciting ways to explore Pingxi, please check outthe New Taipei City Tourism Websiteandthe New Taipei Travel Fanpageto create your own unique mini adventure.

%The city wall of Jifei City is lined with taverns and teahouses, writing a refined and elegant alleyway tale.%