Free distribution of centennial commemorative stamps for the Alishan Forest Railway on-site

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Republic of China, and the famous Alishan Forest Railway has also turned 100 years old. Starting at 10:00 AM this Sunday (the 25th), the Chiayi Forest District Office under the Forestry Bureau will host the “Alishan Forest Railway Centennial Celebration – Alishan Forest Railway 100th Anniversary Event and Commemorative Stamp Souvenir Sheet Issuance Ceremony.” The organizing committee will distribute free “Alishan Forest Railway 100th Anniversary Commemorative Stamp Souvenir Sheet” memorial cards to the first 100 attendees. Additionally, there will be the launch of a new book chronicling 100 years of forestry in Alishan, as well as the premiere of the film “Memories of Alishan’s Century.”

The development of forestry in Alishan dates back to traces during the Dutch colonial period, but it wasn’t until the Japanese occupation era that large-scale operations began. At that time, the Alishan Forest Railway was built to support forestry development, and it has now reached its 100th year. The project involved massive inputs of manpower, materials, and funding, and its technical challenges were once considered a crazy endeavor by experts. Today, the Alishan Forest Railway is one of the world’s renowned mountain railways. Although the main line spans only 71.4 kilometers, it climbs from lowland areas up to an elevation of 2,274 meters, traversing through three forest zones—tropical, subtropical, and temperate—offering breathtaking scenery along the way.　　

The book “Cypress Forests and Mountain Scenery – Stories from 100 Years of Alishan Forestry,” compiled by the Chiayi Forest District Office based on oral histories, offers perspectives on the century-long development of Alishan forestry. It features interviews and records of many retired employees of the Alishan Forest Railway, presenting diverse views that help readers experience the multifaceted charm of Alishan. The documentary “Memories of Alishan’s Century,” premiering that day, is a captivating compilation of photos and videos related to Alishan over the past 100 years, curated by the Chiayi Forest District Office. For more details, please contact Beimen Station at 05-276-8094 or Alishan Station at 05-267-9833.