Seven Cruise Train Itineraries: Cherry Blossoms, the National Palace Museum Southern Branch, and More All in One Trip

By MOOK Travel & Lifestyle Network Editorial Team
 
Want to go on a trip but not sure how to plan it? Between January and March, Taiwan Railways (TRA) has launched seven uniquely themed “cruise-style train tour packages.” In addition to popular attractions like Taitung’s Chishang’s Prosperity Boulevard and the Taliao Station, this time the National Palace Museum Southern Branch and the Alishan Forest Railway are also included. Additionally, some Alishan-bound itineraries coincide with the peak cherry blossom season, making them an excellent choice for travelers looking to enjoy the blooms.

● Scenic South Link & Taitung Forest Tour – 2 Days1January 16Departure from Central & Southern Taiwan (Tickets on sale now)
Departing from Taichung/New Wuri/Changhua/Chiayi/Tainan/New Zuoying/Kaohsiung, the journey begins with a slow ride through the Jiouzhuang-Tuokuai section to admire the old Jiouzhuang Iron Bridge from various angles; next, experience the rich Hakka culture in Zhutian; pass through Neishi Station en route to Zhizheng Forest Recreation Area and the National Museum of Prehistory to enjoy the region’s cultural and natural beauty; enjoy a slow ride at Taliao Station, famed as Taiwan’s most beautiful train station, taking in the multi-layered, stunning Pacific Ocean views; finally, arrive at Nanzhou Station and walk to Nanzhou Sugar Factory to savor the delights of traditional ice treats.

● Explore Avatar Landscapes & Hike Kenting – 3 Days1January 29Departure from Northern Taiwan (Tickets on sale now)
Departing from Banqiao/Taipei/Songshan/Qidu, first stop is Yongle Station, known for its shell or wave-like appearance and hailed as the most exquisitely designed small station along the North-Link Line; then continue to Guanshan, Chishang, and Shanli Stations, followed by a slow ride at Taliao Station to enjoy the beautiful Pacific scenery. After arriving at Jiaolu Station, transfer by car to Kenting’s Lido Hotel for an overnight stay, and the next day visit Xinqizhan’s Crying Lake, Water Grassland, and Shuhai Grassland.

● Chishang Flower Fields, Sanciyuan’s Treasure Drums & Leisure – 2 Days2February 20Departure from Northern Taiwan (Tickets on sale January 20, 2024)Year 1December 20Ticket sales start)
Departing from Shulin/Banqiao/Taipei/Songshan/Qidu, first stop is Yilan Station where you can walk around the famous “Jimi Square” and “Diudiu Forest”; next, head to Chishang’s Dapo Pond, Prosperity Boulevard, and the Bunun Cultural Museum to experience Taitung’s cultural and natural beauty; after an overnight stay at the Naluwan Hotel in Taitung, the next day take a chartered vehicle to Sanciyuan and Bixiliyan to enjoy the musical experience of the treasure drums.