Taiwan’s Only Remaining Wulai Train Resumes Service with Special Discounted Fares

By the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

The Wulai Train, which connects the Wulai Old Street commercial area with the waterfall, is Taiwan’s only remaining train and an important cultural asset of the forestry industry. It has been out of service since Typhoon Soudelor two years ago, but after restoration and reconstruction by the Forestry Bureau, it has recently resumed service. In addition to enhanced safety features, the restored train features a brand-new exterior color scheme, and will operate at a promotional fare of NT$30 until the end of September.

The Wulai Train was built during the Japanese colonial period to transport logging equipment and timber. In 1928, a light rail track began being laid in the Wulai area. In 1951, with the opening of a highway to Wulai, domestic and international tourists began visiting, and at that time, the only route connecting the Wulai district to the waterfall was via the train tracks. As a result, the train originally used for timber transport also began carrying passengers. To meet tourism demand, the Forestry Bureau expanded the single-track section, approximately 1.5 km in length, into a double-track in 1964, increasing transport capacity and reducing the inconvenience of passengers having to disembark during passing. Thus, the “Wulai Sightseeing Train” was officially born, becoming an important cultural asset and tourist resource of the Wulai area, as well as Taiwan’s only remaining train, bearing witness to Taiwan’s transportation history before the highway era.

The facilities and stations related to the Wulai Train, originating from the Japanese colonial period, were all constructed many years ago. To comply with current legal regulations, with active coordination by the Executive Yuan, and assistance from the New Taipei City Government, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, and the Public Construction Commission of the Executive Yuan, tasks such as land use rezoning, review of special buildings, and establishment of safety operation standards were successfully completed.

The new Wulai Train features an exterior design incorporating local natural and cultural elements through colorful illustrations, including wild boars, tree frogs, and Atayal children, offering visitors a refreshing new experience. To boost tourism in the Wulai area and encourage public understanding of Atayal culture and forestry history, a trial operation event is being held until the end of September, with discounted fares of NT$30 for passengers during the promotion period.
 

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