Taiwan Railways’ “Smile Train” to Begin Service During Lunar New Year; “Smile” Merchandise Launched First

▲ The EMU800 commuter trains newly purchased by Taiwan Railways this July are expected to begin operation during the 2014 Lunar New Year. (Photo / Provided by Taiwan Railways)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The EMU800 commuter train, dubbed the “Smile Train” and set to enter service during the 103rd lunar new year (2014), will first see the launch of related “Smile” merchandise to build buzz. Among them, Taiwan Railways has specially released 800 limited-edition “Railway Blessings” amulets across Taiwan, along with nearly 22 other items, hoping that those who acquire them will be “smiling all the way.”

The only limited-edition item among the newly launched “Smile” merchandise is the “Railway Blessings” amulet, inspired by traditional Japanese talismans. It features an embroidered front with the EMU800 train design and a back embossed with the auspicious station name “Bai Fu Wan Hua” (Hundred Blessings, Myriad Splendor). Each amulet comes with a gold-toned replica of a train ticket for the Bai Fu–Wan Hua route, symbolizing hopes that the “Smile Amulet” will bring 100% good fortune in the new year.

Other “Smile” merchandise includes pull-back toy trains beloved by children, healing-themed stationery such as pull-back pens, and creative paper tape essential for collages. Starting today, the public can inquire about these items atTaiwan Railways DreamWorks.

%NaNNaNNaNNaN%... Also launched to celebrate the new service is the “Blessing Pack,” featuring 800 limited-edition amulets, with hopes they will bestow 100% good fortune in the new year. (Photo / Provided by Taiwan Railways)

▲ Taiwan Railways has also launched 22 types of “Smile Train” merchandise, such as pull-back toy trains (left image), as well as accessories like pencil cases (right image) and paper tape. (Photo / Provided by Taiwan Railways)