Wuqiji Railway Introduction
The Alishan Forest Railway (Alishan Mountain Railway) is a renowned mountain railway both domestically and internationally. Originally built to transport timber, it has now transformed into a forest tourism train. The main line of the Alishan Forest Railway is 72.7 kilometers long, connecting Chiayi City and Alishan. After 15 years of restoration, the entire line will open on July 6, 2024, allowing visitors to take a train directly from Chiayi Station to Alishan Station. Key stations along the route include Chiayi, Beimen, Zhuzhai, Zhangnaoliao, Duli Mountain, Liyuanliao, Jiaoliping, Shuishaliao, Fenqihu, Doulin, Shizilu, Erwanping, and Alishan, totaling 13 stations. The entire journey takes about 4 hours and 56 minutes, with a 1-hour stop in Fenqihu, where visitors can savor local delicacies. Currently, there are five main branches within the park: Zhushan Line: This is Taiwan's first self-built high-altitude railway, designed for tourists heading to Zhushan to watch the sunrise, offering magnificent morning views. Zhaoping Line: This branch connects Alishan Station and Zhaoping Station, stretching about 6 kilometers and taking about 7 to 10 minutes. It passes through Zhaoping Park and Taiwan's Orchid Education Park, making it an ideal path to Sister Ponds. Shenmu Line: This branch traverses dense forests, leading directly to the giant trees in the Shenmu area, making it an essential choice for experiencing the grandeur of nature. Mian Yue Line: Originally a timber transport branch line, this 9.2-kilometer route has now been transformed into a walking trail. It reopened on May 1, 2022, becoming a new choice for hiking enthusiasts. This trail offers picturesque scenery along the way and features several bridges and tunnels, taking approximately 4 to 5 hours one way. Shuishan Line: This branch was originally a forest railway to Dongpu, starting from Zhaoping Station and currently preserved up to Shuishan Station, with a length of approximately 1.6 kilometers. Along the trail, visitors can see remnants of the old railway and the Shuishan giant tree (Cypress), which is about 1,080 years old and one of the largest giant trees within the Alishan National Scenic Area. The round trip from Zhaoping Station takes about 1 hour, making it very suitable for families and general tourists. In addition, the early preserved steam trains No. 25, 26, and 31 have been meticulously restored and are now operational, allowing visitors to experience a journey on this historic steam train. The Alishan Forest Railway is not only an important attraction for nature lovers but also a part of understanding Taiwan's history and culture.
