Japanese-style ambiance with breathtaking sea views — Taiwan's top 10 most scenic train stations

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Taiwan boasts a unique historical charm, coupled with a prime geographical setting of surrounding seas and sprawling mountain ranges, giving many train stations diverse appeal and landscape features. The following highlights Taiwan’s top ten most stunning stations, each exuding its own captivating charm under the influence of picturesque scenery and rich history — a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and rail fans alike.

1. Badouzi Station
Badouzi Station in Keelung was reopened in late 2016 after reconstruction, quickly becoming a new hot spot for photography. It features one of Taiwan’s most beautiful coastal lines, offering sweeping views of the endless shoreline, rivaling the beauty of Taiwan’s most scenic Talan Station. In addition to renovating the old platform on the mountain side, a brand-new 80-meter-long scenic platform was built on the ocean-facing side, allowing passengers to enjoy the stunning sea-and-sky horizon.

2. Talan Station
Talan Station in TaiMaLi Township, Taitung County, is known as Taiwan’s most beautiful station for its magnificent sea-and-sky views. The station’s red railings on the platform are a distinctive feature. From here, you can overlook the Pacific Ocean, making it a favorite among rail enthusiasts and travelers.

3. Jiji Station
The 921 earthquake once toppled the over 70-year-old Jiji Station, but thanks to the efforts of numerous well-wishers, this historic station was eventually rebuilt. Made of cypress wood, the station is full of traditional Japanese-style charm, offering visitors a sense of the prosperity and nostalgia of the past.

4. Chishang Station
Chishang Station, which was recently renovated in early 2017 as part of the “Flower East New Stations Movement,” broke away from the dull concrete architecture and was redesigned with a pure wooden style. Netizens passing through were amazed, feeling as if they had arrived in Japan. The Japanese-style exterior and arched wooden beam design give the waiting hall a blend of fantasy and Zen-like tranquility.