The limited-edition Tung Blossom Train makes its maiden voyage today, appearing at Taiwan Railways stations at unscheduled times until June 15

By Li Xinyi, reporting

The Tung Blossom season is here quietly. In central and southern Taiwan, the blossoms are already 80–90% in bloom, while areas north of Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Miaoli will be in full bloom starting next week. To coincide with the public’s blossom viewing, this year marks the 125th anniversary of Taiwan Railways, which has collaborated with the Council of Indigenous Peoples to once again launch a seasonally limited painted Tung Blossom Train. Running from now until June 15 on the Western Trunk Line of Taiwan Railways, the Tung Blossom Train will depart at unscheduled times daily. Riding the Tung Blossom Train to admire the blossoms this year will be a truly rare experience.

It has been seven years since the last painted Tung Blossom Train was launched by Taiwan Railways (in 2005). Huang Yuzhen, Chairman of the Council of Indigenous Peoples, stated that this time the council has not only painted eight Tung Blossom-themed carriages, with each carriage featuring a different design theme. When the inaugural Tung Blossom Train opened for public registration recently, all spots were filled within half an hour. Many parents brought their children along for the ride this morning, with a total of 120 lucky passengers taking the inaugural train for a round trip from Taipei to Taoyuan, getting an early taste of the vibrant and joyful atmosphere aboard the Tung Blossom Train.

For those wishing to view the Tung Blossoms, the Council of Indigenous Peoples has launched the “2012 Hakka Tung Blossom Festival” app, where users can check the blooming status of Tung Blossoms across the province. This year also introduces a new “Tung Blossom Points King” game. When visiting any of the 101 Tung Blossom Festival scenic spots around Taiwan, users can open the app to collect points and even have a chance to win travel cash. Additionally, those lucky enough to photograph the unscheduled Tung Blossom Train can print their photos on A5 paper or develop them as 4x6 prints, and mail them (to “Tung Blossom Train Event Team,” 10F, No. 251, Sec. 2, Xinyi Rd., Taipei City 110) before June 30 for a chance to win a limited-edition picnic basket from the “2012 Hakka Tung Blossom Festival.”

Hakka Tung Blossom Festival website: tung.hakka.gov.tw

●  Extended reading: Explore Hakka Tung Blossom mountain villages and immerse yourself in the enchanting osmanthus fragrance of Nanzhuang

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