The Taiwan Railways Administration's "Midsummer Formosa" CT273 steam train resumes service

Text / Compiled and reported by the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department

 

During the summer vacation, the Taiwan Railways Administration has specially launched the "Midsummer Formosa" CT273 steam train on the Hualien-Taitung Line. On August 5, it conducted its first trial run between Hualien and Heren, attracting a large number of rail fans to take photos and watch. It also served as a successful warm-up for the special train journey between Yuli and Taitung from July 7 to 9.

To celebrate the 2nd anniversary of the SL Midsummer Formosa, the Taiwan Railways Administration has moved the steam train journey to the Hualien-Taitung region for the first time this summer.It will operate a steam train between Yuli and Taitung for three days from August 7 to 9 (Thursday to Saturday).The service will include four air-conditioned SPK express cars (total seating capacity of 240) and two non-air-conditioned DR2511-2512 diesel cars (total seating capacity of 80), with stops at Chihshang, Guanshan, and Shanzili stations en route, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery of the Hualien-Taitung region.

The Midsummer Formosa special train combines steam locomotives with the tourism resources of the Hualien-Taitung region, taking passengers to popular attractions and smaller stations along the railway line.Visitors can stop at stations such as Chihshang, Guanshan, and Shanzili to visit the Chihshang Rice Ball Culture Story Museum, the old Guanshan Station and nearby former staff dormitories, and the white chapel at Shanzili Station. The Taiwan Railways CT273 steam locomotive was refurbished and returned to service in June this year. It is part of the CT270 class of steam locomotives, the same type as Japan’s C57 class. Known as the speed king of Taiwan’s railways during the Japanese colonial period and an iconic express train in history, its top design speed is 100 km/h, with a maximum steam pressure of 16 kg per square centimeter. The total operating weight of the locomotive is 115.25 metric tons, and it provides a tractive effort of 12,820 kg.

In addition, to create a warm and harmonious atmosphere at the station and to promote the government’s emphasis on filial piety and family values,the Taiwan Railways Administration specially held the "I Love My Family 'Big Hand Holding Little Hand' Father’s Day Gratitude – A Guided Tour of Taipei Railway Station" event starting at 1:40 p.m. on August 8 (Friday) in the multifunctional exhibition hall at Taipei Railway Station.This event encourages fathers to bring their children to visit Taipei Railway Station together, while also hoping to instill in children a deep appreciation for their fathers’ hard work in supporting the family, thereby strengthening familial bonds.