Pingtung has a metro now！ The railway intersection section feels like a roller coaster ride

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

“Pingtung finally has a metro!” The elevated railway (westbound track) of Taiwan Railways’ Kaohsiung–Pingtung Chaozhou Metrofication Project held its inauguration ceremony today (25th). Pingtung County Magistrate Tsao Chi-hung described it as “like viewing the Pingtung Plain from a three-dimensional space — the scenery looks even more beautiful.” Passengers riding through the railway intersection section can also enjoy a fun experience akin to a roller coaster.


▲ The modern Chaozhou Station. (Photo / Provided by Pingtung County Government)

The first phase (westbound track) of the Pingtung Chaozhou Metrofication Project was launched today, covering approximately 16 kilometers from Guangdong Road in Pingtung to Chaozhou Railway Station. The first train on the elevated railway departed from Pingtung at 5:12 a.m. The originally ground-level railway has been elevated to about 5 meters high, offering a broader view and unobstructed scenery of the Pingtung Plain, with even the distant beauty of Dawu Mountain in sight, leaving passengers in awe.

With the railway elevated, not only are level crossings along the line eliminated — reducing the likelihood of traffic accidents — but the modern design of Chaozhou Station has also revitalized Pingtung’s transportation landscape, expected to spur development in the surrounding areas. Especially from Chaozhou Station, the town streetscape and the majestic Dawu Mountain can be seen in the distance, creating a delightful view. Interestingly, although the Pingtung–Chaozhou railway is elevated, it intersects with two sections of National Freeway No. 3’s elevated viaduct. To align with the freeway’s height, the tracks had to be lowered back to ground level, creating a sensation reminiscent of a roller coaster — an added thrill to the ride.


▲ View of Pingtung from the elevated railway. (Photo / Provided by Pingtung County Government)

After the inauguration of the Taiwan Railways’ Pingtung Chaozhou Metrofication Project, 20 level crossings and 3 highway overpasses along the line will be removed, while five new stations — Guilai, Linluo, Xishi, Zhutian, and Chaozhou — have been opened. Pingtung’s transportation is entering a new era. Following the completion and launch of the elevated Linbian Railway Station in 2012, according to Taiwan Railways statistics, ridership increased by 12% within a year. With the full completion of the Pingtung Chaozhou Metrofication Project, increased train frequency between Pingtung and other areas, and improved convenience, it is believed that more passengers will choose to travel by train.