Fairy-tale forests and Mediterranean-style stations are eye-catching highlights: 6 classic train stations in Eastern Taiwan

▲ Yilan Station with its playful appearance. (Photo / Reporter Cai Wenjun)

Reporter Cai Wenjun / Comprehensive report

Taiwan’s railway system is well-developed, with a history spanning over a century. To help the public gain a deeper understanding of railways, the Taiwan Railways Administration recently released a list of 16 classic stations across the country. This article highlights 6 classic stations in Eastern Taiwan. Whether it’s the architectural style of the stations themselves or the scenery visible from them, these spots are worth savoring for every traveler.

▲ Yilan’s Dododang Forest. (Photo / Reporter Cai Wenjun)

1. Yilan — Yilan Station
Nicknamed the “Jimmy Liao Train Station,” Yilan Station extends its whimsical charm beyond its walls, bringing the world of Jimmy Liao’s picture books to life. Cute themed installations make it a must-visit spot for travelers coming to Yilan, transforming the transport hub into a scenic attraction.

2. Yilan — Waiao Station
A breeze carrying the salty tang of the sea is the natural scent you’ll notice upon arriving at Waiao Station. This unmanned station has welcomed surfers from around the world year after year. With its simple and unadorned structure, it serves as the gateway for those looking to experience various water activities in Yilan.

▲ Yilan’s Dongshan Station. (Photo / Reporter Cai Wenjun)

3. Yilan — Dongshan Station
Known as the “most beautiful station in Taiwan,” Dongshan Station features arched canopies on its elevated tracks, representing the old place name “Winter Melon Mountain.” The endless canopies and flowing light and shadows have made this a popular spot among rail enthusiasts for capturing stunning views.

▲ Landscaped art installations in front of the station during the Green Expo. (Photo / Reporter Cai Wenjun)

Yilan’s “2017 Green Expo” was held at the Dongshan River Eco Green Boat this year. As soon as you exit the station, you’ll see many specially created art installations for the event, along with DIY experiences and local agricultural product tastings. These activities are lined up beneath the elevated station, offering food, fun, and great photo opportunities, adding even more charm to Dongshan Station.

▲ Xincheng Station. (Photo / Provided by the Railway Construction Bureau)

4. Hualien — Xincheng Station
Xincheng (Taroko) Station was reopened in early 2016 with a new look. The station is designed with the imagery of a “gate,” symbolizing the Liwu River cutting through the Taroko Gorge, presenting a V-shaped facade that showcases the grandeur and unique welcome of Eastern Taiwan’s first gateway. It also incorporates indigenous handicrafts and woven art, making it a new attraction in Hualien.

5. Taitung — Chishang Station
In recent years, the Taiwan Railways Administration has been renovating train stations in the Hualien-Taitung region. The newly redesigned Chishang Station reflects the area’s reputation as the “land of rice,” featuring a wooden Japanese-style granary design. It complements the golden rice fields and layered mountain ranges, becoming a new local landmark.

6. Taitung — Haiduan Station
Although Haiduan Station is a small unmanned stop, its Mediterranean-style exterior has made it a new photography hotspot for travelers in Taitung in recent years. Despite its name, which might suggest it’s near the sea, “Haiduan” comes from the Bunun language, meaning “open on one side, surrounded by mountains on three.” If you’re planning a railway journey, this is a spot not to be missed.