Ride through the Totoro Tunnel!* Taiwan’s only new railway bicycle attraction

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

The rail bike, which became a huge hit in South Korea, is now available in Taiwan too. Last year, Miaoli County Government launched a Slow City movement and an Old Mountain Line RAIL BIKE project, taking advantage of the scenic views along the old railway tracks and old tunnels, and chose the Old Mountain Line to create Taiwan’s first-ever “rail track bicycle.” It officially opened on July 1.

As the rail track bicycle has not yet officially begun full operations, it is not open for free rides. Only local residents were given priority for trial rides. It is expected to begin a trial public operation in mid-August, when visitors will be able to take a small train along the Old Mountain Line to enjoy the mountain-city scenery of Miaoli.

The fare for the rail track bicycle is NT$280 per person. The route connects 8 tunnels and ties in with surrounding attractions along the 130-km Sanyi area. The operating route is: Shengxing Station → Tunnel 2 → Yutengping Bridge → north entrance of Tunnel 6, then turning back, covering a total of 12 km round trip and taking about 1.5 hours per ride.

The rail bike, which originated in South Korea, is a manually powered mini-train that has become very popular. Passengers pedal inside the train, and there is also an electric assist system in case you get tired. A GPS system also shows riders their current location.

The rail bike combines features of a golf cart, mini-train, and bicycle. Each unit can carry up to 4 people. All passengers must wear helmets and fasten seatbelts. No stops or disembarking are allowed during the ride. This summer, from July to September, 40 bikes will be available first, increasing to 60 from October to the end of the year, eventually reaching 100. Pregnant women, those with high blood pressure, children under 6 years old, and anyone who has been drinking are not allowed to ride.
 

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》https://www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=18085