aeeble

The Alishan Forest Railway (also known as the Alishan Forestry Railway) is a renowned mountain railway, both domestically and internationally. Originally built for timber transportation, it has evolved into a forest tourism train. The main line of the Alishan Forest Railway spans 72.7 kilometers, connecting Chiayi City to Alishan. After 15 years of restoration, the entire line reopened on July 6, 2024, allowing tourists to travel directly from Chiayi Station to Alishan Station by train. Along the route, there are 13 main stations: Chiayi, Beimen, Zhuqi, Zhangnaoliao, Duli Mountain, Liyuanliao, Jiao liping, Shuisheliao, Fengqihu, Duolin, Shizizi Road, Erwanping, and Alishan. The entire journey takes approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes, with a 1-hour stop at Fengqihu, allowing tourists to savor local delicacies. Currently, there are five main branch lines within the Alishan Forest Railway: 1. **Zhushan Line**: Taiwan's first self-built high-altitude railway, designed for tourists visiting Zhushan to watch the sunrise, offering breathtaking morning scenery. 2. **Zhaoping Line**: This branch line connects Alishan Station to Zhaoping Station, approximately 6 kilometers long, with a travel time of 7 to 10 minutes. The line passes through Zhaoping Park and the Taiwan One-leaf Orchid Education Area, serving as an ideal path to Sister Ponds. 3. **Shenmu Line**: This branch line traverses dense forests, directly leading to the Shenmu Area, known for its giant trees. It's an essential choice for experiencing nature's grandeur. 4. **Mianyue Line**: Originally a railway branch for timber transport, this 9.2-kilometer line has been repurposed as a hiking trail. Reopened on May 1, 2022, it offers a new option for hiking enthusiasts. The trail features scenic views, multiple bridges, and tunnels, with a one-way journey requiring about 4 to 5 hours. 5. **Shui (Cen) Shan Line**: A former forest railway leading to Dongpu, starting from Zhaoping Station, currently preserved up to Shui Shan Station, approximately 1.6 kilometers long. The trail showcases remnants of the old railway and the Shui Shan giant tree (Red Cypress), estimated to be about 1,080 years old, one of the largest ancient trees in the Alishan Forest Recreation Area. A round-trip hike from Zhaoping Station takes about 1 hour, suitable for families and general tourists. The Alishan Forest Railway has not only become a key attraction for nature lovers but also a vital part of Taiwan's history and culture. The meticulously restored steam locomotives No. 25, 26, and 31 allow tourists to experience this historically significant steam train journey.