Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, reported by Chen Guanxin
Taiwan’s first Jimmy-themed square has attracted over 140,000 visitors since its opening last June, receiving widespread praise and positive feedback from travelers. The Yilan County Government has now added two new art installations inspired by elements from Jimmy’s picture books at Yilan Railway Station and Diudiuang Forest Square. From a distance, the tree-lined square in front of Yilan Railway Station resembles the tranquil forest where the boy and girl stroll through in the picture book “Secrets in the Sky,” making the station appear as though it is hidden within a forest. Extending this concept, the building’s exterior is wrapped in lush green imagery from Jimmy’s books, transforming Yilan Railway Station into a “railway station in the forest.” This adds vibrancy to the bustling station while also featuring a giraffe as the gatekeeper to welcome daily commuters.
Jimmy’s Flying Train takes to the skies, bringing the world of the picture book to life once again. (Photo provided by Yilan County Government)
Additionally, architect Huang Shengyuan’s work “Diudiuang Forest Square,” inspired by Yilan’s former name “Jiuxiong” (meaning Michelia compressa), incorporates an iron tree landscape design that reflects the fusion of local culture and art. Jimmy’s “Starry Sky Train” installation appears to emerge from the forest at Diudiuang Forest Square, creating an interactive dialogue between the structure and the plaza that revives the area’s original tranquility and injects new energy.
Yilan Railway Station is transformed into a lush green forest world. (Photo provided by Yilan County Government)
Yilan’s old city district has long been a gathering place for artisans. Over time, its various architectural complexes reflect the values and lifestyles shaped by traditional crafts across different generations, blending old and new cultures into a unique cultural character for the old town. To allow travelers to deeply experience Yilan City’s rich humanistic and historical atmosphere, the Yilan County Government has planned the “Follow Jimmy on a Yilan Mini Trip” guided tour route. This connects key sites that hold memories of old Yilan, led by guides trained by the county government. Along the way, visitors will explore Yilan Railway Station, Diudiuang Forest Square, the Red Brick House, Yilan Xingkou, the Yilan County Tourism Service Center, the South Gate Old Prison, the Office-Governing Memorial Hall, the Vascular Moat, Yilan Distillery, and the Yang Shifang Memorial Forest Park. Through this cultural corridor that blends tradition and modernity, filled with nostalgic charm, visitors can discover Yilan from a fresh perspective. Starting January 25th, the “Follow Jimmy on a Yilan Mini Trip” guided tour service is available every Saturday and Sunday.
● Further Reading:
Yilan City Exclusive: A Half-Day Stroll at the Jimmy-Themed Square
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