Taiwan Railways’ Largest Steam Locomotive by Tonnage | Nantou Train Festival Makes Its Dreamy Debut

Reported by You T-Ru / Compiled by Staff

The Nantou Train Festival will kick off in grand style this Sunday (the 14th). Among its most popular offerings, the free steam train ride reservation for those staying overnight in Nantou, is now open for bookings. As long as you stay at a licensed accommodation in Nantou during the event period, you can apply for a ride through participating operators. There will be four time slots available every Sunday. Those planning to explore the Jiji Line and experience the charm of vintage steam trains during the summer vacation are advised to book their accommodations and reserve their rides early.


▲ Taiwan Railways’ largest steam locomotive by tonnage is a dream treasure for train enthusiasts. (Photo / Provided by Nantou County Government Tourism Bureau)

The “Nantou Train Festival,” one of the most popular railway tourism events of the summer vacation, is themed “Traveling with Building Blocks Fun” this year (2023), with a series of activities set to officially launch next Sunday. The star of the free steam train ride experience this year is the national treasure-grade steam locomotive DT668. Known as the “King of Steam Locomotives,” this train is the largest by tonnage in Taiwan Railways’ history, with a tractive effort of over 17,000 kilograms and the ability to pull up to 10 carriages at once. It’s truly a dream ride for train fans and a rare, exciting experience for both children and adults who have never ridden a steam train before.


                 ▲ The DT668 steam locomotive. (Photo / Provided by Nantou County Government Tourism Bureau)

Steam train services during the festival are scheduled every Sunday throughout the event period. Visitors staying at any licensed hotel or homestay within Nantou can apply for a free ride through participating operators. Once your application is approved, simply bring your application form and arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure to collect your ticket. Any remaining seats will be available on-site for walk-ins, who can exchange a receipt of NT$500 or more spent at Nantou businesses during the event period for a ride ticket.

The official website will update the availability of steam train reservations daily during the event. Visitors can check seat availability for each scheduled ride and decide whether to go. This year’s festival also introduces a balloon tethered flight experience, with weekly lucky draws for free rides — no additional charge, just a bit of on-site luck.