A Must-Visit Nostalgic Rail Car Scenic Spot: Old Baigi Tunnel Is a Great Place for a Leisurely Stroll

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department, compiled and reported
 
Located in Daxi, Taoyuan, the Old Baigi Tunnel was built during the Japanese colonial period in 1944 to serve as a passageway for transportation, air defense, and evacuation. It was also an important strategic site. After decades have passed, the Old Baigi Tunnel has been renovated into a recreational walking trail, perfect for families to enjoy a leisurely walk and explore the tunnel’s historical legacy.

There are two Baigi Tunnels: the “Old Baigi Tunnel,” which has been repurposed as a recreational walking path, and the “New Baigi Tunnel,” which is open to vehicular traffic and connects Cihu in Taoyuan to Fuxing.

The Old Baigi Tunnel is approximately 343 meters long and 4.5 meters wide. Sixty years ago, it was damaged by a landslide and had to be closed. After repairs, it reopened to vehicle traffic but only allowed one-way passage. It wasn’t until 1993 (the 82nd year of the Republic of China) that the New Baigi Tunnel, which allows two-way traffic, was constructed. This led to the Old Baigi Tunnel, once used for vehicles, officially becoming part of history.

After the Old Baigi Tunnel ceased its transportation function and was closed, it was reopened in 2007 as a sightseeing trail. Walking through this historic tunnel, which has witnessed over half a century of history, feels like stepping into a time tunnel, allowing you to imagine the bustling scene of vehicles and people passing through the tunnel 70 years ago.

Inside the tunnel, there are also remnants of the light railway and “rail cars” from the Japanese colonial period, making it feel as though the tunnel has been preserved in that era—very nostalgic. Nowadays, the tunnel is also equipped with bright lighting, so it’s not too dark.