Wuqih Railway Introduction
The Alishan Forest Railway is a famous mountain railway known both domestically and internationally. Originally built for transporting timber, it has now transformed into a scenic forest tourism train. The main line of the Alishan Forest Railway is 72.7 kilometers long, connecting Chiayi City with Alishan. After 15 years of restoration, it will fully open on July 6, 2024, allowing visitors to take a train directly from Chiayi Station to Alishan Station. Major stations along the route include Chiayi, Beimen, Zhuqi, Zhangnaoliao, Duli Mountain, Liyuanliao, Jiaoliping, Shuishaliao, Fenqihu, Duland, Shizilu, Erwanping, and Alishan, totaling 13 stations. The entire journey takes about 4 hours and 56 minutes, with a 1-hour stop at Fenqihu for visitors to enjoy local delicacies. Currently, there are five main branches in the park: 1. Zhushan Line: This is Taiwan's first self-built alpine railway, designed specifically for tourists heading to Zhushan to watch the sunrise, offering spectacular morning views. 2. Zhaoping Line: This branch connects Alishan Station and Zhaoping Station, approximately 6 kilometers long, with a journey time of about 7 to 10 minutes. It passes through Zhaoping Park and the Taiwan Orchid Education Area, making it an ideal path to Sisters Ponds. 3. Shenmu Line: This branch traverses dense forests directly to the giant trees in the Shenmu area, an important option for experiencing the natural grandeur. 4. Mianyue Line: Originally a timber transportation railway, it is now a 9.2-kilometer trail that was reopened on May 1, 2022, and has become a new choice for hiking enthusiasts. The trail, featuring picturesque views, includes several bridges and tunnels, requiring about 4 to 5 hours for a one-way trip. 5. Shuishan Line: Originally a forest railway to Dongpu, the starting point is Zhaoping Station, but it is currently preserved up to Shuishan Station, approximately 1.6 kilometers long. Along the trail, visitors can see the remnants of old railroads and the Shuishan Giant Tree (Cryptomeria) which is about 1,080 years old, one of the largest giant trees in the Alishan Forest Recreation Area. The round-trip walk from Zhaoping Station takes about 1 hour, making it very suitable for families and general visitors. Additionally, steam locomotives No. 25, 26, and 31, which were left over from earlier times, have been carefully restored and are now in operation, allowing visitors to experience this historical steam train journey. The Alishan Forest Railway is not only an important spot for nature lovers but also a part of understanding Taiwan's history and culture.
