Wuqis Railway Introduction
The Alishan Forest Railway is a famous mountain railway known both domestically and internationally. Originally built for transporting timber, it has transformed into a 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, the entire line will be operational on July 6, 2024, allowing visitors to take a train directly from Chiayi Station to Alishan Station. Major stops along the route include Chiayi, Beimen, Zhuzai, Zhangnaoliao, Duli Mountain, Liyuanliao, Jiaoli Ping, Shuishaliao, Fenqihu, Duolin, Shizilu, Erwanping, and Alishan, totaling 13 stations. The entire journey takes approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes, including a 1-hour stop at Fenqihu for tourists to enjoy local delicacies. Currently, there are five main branch lines within the park: 1. Zhu Shan Line: Taiwan's first self-built alpine railway, designed specifically for tourists heading to Zhu Shan to watch the sunrise, offering magnificent morning views. 2. Zhaoping Line: This branch connects Alishan Station and Zhaoping Station, stretching about 6 kilometers with a travel 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. Shennong Line: This branch runs through dense forests directly to the giant trees area, being an important choice for experiencing the natural grandeur. 4. Mian Yue Line: Originally a railway branch for timber transportation, now transformed into a walking trail that stretches 9.2 kilometers. Reopened on May 1, 2022, it has become a new choice for hiking enthusiasts. This trail offers beautiful scenery with several bridges and tunnels, taking approximately 4 to 5 hours one way. 5. Shui Shan Line: This branch used to be a forest railway leading to Dong Pu, starting from Zhaoping Station, currently preserved to Shui Shan Station, about 1.6 kilometers long. Along the trail, visitors can see remnants of the old railway and the Shui Shan giant trees (Red Cypress) that are about 1,080 years old, one of the largest colossal trees in the Alishan Forest Recreation Area. The round trip from Zhaoping Station takes about 1 hour, making it very suitable for families and general tourists. Additionally, the steam locomotives No. 25, 26, and 31, preserved since the early days, have been carefully restored and are back in operation, allowing tourists to experience the historical steam train journey. The Alishan Forest Railway is not only an important attraction for nature lovers but also a part of understanding Taiwan's history and culture.
