Binglang Old Railway Station Introduction
Binglang Station in Taitung was established in 1922 during the Japanese colonial rule of Taiwan, originally functioning as a train greeting station. At that time, narrow-gauge trains ran along the old Beinan River, passing through Binglang, Dongcheng, Chulu, Jiafeng, Zhongxing, and reaching Lukang Station. The Binglang Station was upgraded to a full train station in 1943 and was renamed Binglang Station after Taiwan's retrocession. With the completion of the East Line Railway widening project, Binglang Station was declared closed along with Jiafeng, Dongcheng, and Chulu stations in 1982. Binglang Station is a mini train station, yet it serves as an important station for north-south train crossings. The station features a traditional Japanese wooden building, constructed with two levels due to the topographical drop. The upper level consists of the ticket office, station building, and waiting room, while the lower level houses the station staff quarters, showcasing a rich history. Binglang Station is located between Lukang and Taitung stations and is distinct for its unique design as a turnback station, similar to Jiafeng Station, due to a gradient exceeding 2.1%. Trains with reserved tickets often have to wait here to allow trains from the opposite single track to enter before they can depart with right of way. Binglang Station is one of the few surviving Japanese-style wooden train stations along the eastern railway line that has been closed. Its wooden structure remains sturdy, and the adjacent cement ticket office, wooden restroom, and water tower used for steam locomotives are well-preserved. However, the main building of the station has begun to deteriorate, while surrounding old trees provide shade, allowing the old Binglang Station to be unexpectedly tucked away and creating a dreamy atmosphere for those seeking nostalgia.
