By the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
The Alishan Forest Railway is marking its 30th anniversary. The route runs from the Cross Junction via Duigaoyue to Zhuoshan, with frequent sea of clouds sightings along the way, creating ever-changing vistas. It is the first sightseeing mountain railway constructed by the people of Taiwan. The Alishan Forest Railway Management Office has specially launched the “Forest Life Leisure Cruise” train, which makes a stop at the hidden gem station “Cross Junction.” Upon arrival at the final destination, passengers can follow volunteer guides to the Ogasawara Platform to admire the majestic view of the Yushan mountain range.
The “Forest Life Leisure Cruise” cruise train will begin accepting group bookings starting January 4, with individual bookings open to the general public from January 5. (Image source / Alishan National Forest Recreation Area)
The “Forest Life Leisure Cruise” will depart from Alishan Station at 8:50 a.m. on January 13, 2016. It will make a stop at the hidden gem station “Cross Junction,” and the train will enter the Mianyue Line for passengers to disembark and take photos. On-site volunteer guides will explain the origin of the name “Cross Junction” and how trains pass each other on the line. Upon arriving at the terminal Zhuoshan Station, participants will join the celebration ceremony for the 30th anniversary of the Zhuoshan Line’s opening. After the ceremony, volunteer guides will lead guests to the Ogasawara Platform to enjoy the panoramic view of the Yushan mountain peaks.
The Ogasawara Mountain Observation Platform. (Image source / Alishan National Forest Recreation Area)
The Sea of Clouds at Alishan. (Image provided / Huang Yuanming, who strolls through the clouds of Alishan)
On the return journey, the cruise train will make stops at the Duigaoyue Station and the Zhaoping Station. The Duigaoyue Station is normally only used for train crossings and rarely accommodates passengers, but it offers spectacular views of the Yushan mountain range. The Zhaoping Station is the old Alishan Station, notable for its architecture that mimics the original Alishan train depot. On the first floor of the station lobby sits a massive carved camphor tree stump, filling the area with a subtle camphor fragrance upon arrival. The second floor features wooden carving displays for visitors to explore. The cruise train is scheduled to return to Alishan Station around 12:11 p.m.
Zhaoping Station. (Image source / Taiwan Railways Administration)
During autumn and winter, abundant moisture in high-altitude areas combined with seasonal winds makes sea of clouds particularly likely to form. (Image provided / Huang Yuanming, who strolls through the clouds of Alishan)
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