Shengxing Station Introduction
With an elevation of 402 and 326 meters, it is the highest point on Taiwan's East-West Main Line railway, established in the 29th year of the Qing Guangxu era (1903). Originally named "Bogong Keng" signal station, it was later renamed "Shiliufen" signal station. In 1935, it was again renamed "Shiliufen Station," and began providing passenger and freight services. During the Japanese colonial period, the construction of the mountain line railway began in segments, with the Zhunan-Miaoli section completed on May 25, 1936. On October 17 of the same year, the Miaoli-Sanyi section was completed. In the spring of the following year, the Sanyi-Bogong Keng section was opened, but was only used for transporting construction materials for the railway. Between Bogong Keng and Houli, due to the rugged mountainous terrain and rivers, construction took time and effort, and only in 1941 was the entire mountain line railway completed after great difficulties. Shengxing was originally called Shiliufen; according to legend, the Shengxing mountain area was once full of camphor trees, and during the reclamation period, sixteen distillation workshops were built, hence the name. After Taiwan's retrocession, Sanyi was established as a township and later adopted its current name. The Shengxing station is located on a small terrace in a valley, and the entire building is constructed with wood, with every post completely free of nails. Surrounding Shengxing station are nine uniquely shaped mountain peaks that serve as a form of protection against evil spirits. The station's landscape design is well thought out, with various flowers and trees planted according to the terrain, creating a delightful view. There are very few stations along the Taiwanese railway line that offer such vibrant and picturesque scenery. Outside the station, a small village with a dozen households resides deep within the mountains, with a leisurely and tranquil living rhythm that captivates visitors. The area near Shengxing extends towards the Knife Mountain, which is part of the Liyutan water source protection zone, retaining a dense forest. The winding roads amidst the greenery offer a refreshing and serene atmosphere, creating an elegant ambiance.
