Taiwan by Rail

This morning after breakfast we’ll venture out to explore Taipei’s cityscape. Travelling by the Taipei Metro Subway (MRT), you’ll get a real sense of life in this great city and discover iconic landmarks like the iconic Taipei 101 Building, and Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall.   

The famous Taipei 101 Building and Observatory, an iconic skyscraper and one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Known for its stunning architecture, cutting-edge engineering, and cultural significance, Taipei 101 was the world’s tallest building from its completion in 2004 until 2010. The building stands at 508 metres tall and has 101 floors above ground and 5 floors underground.

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, a striking monument steeped in history. Built in honor of Chiang Kai-Shek, the former President of the Republic of China (ROC), who played a significant role in modern Chinese history, the memorial was completed in 1980 and serves as a tribute to Chiang Kai-Shek’s leadership and his role in shaping Taiwan’s post-war identity. Over time, the site has also become a place for public gatherings, protests, and cultural events. In recent years, the memorial has been a subject of debate regarding its symbolism, as it reflects Chiang Kai-Shek’s controversial legacy.

Following lunch by the river, you’ll visit Tamsui Old Street, famous for its riverside promenade, cultural landmarks, traditional snacks and handicrafts. Tamsui was a significant port during the Qing Dynasty and later under Japanese rule. The Old Street area reflects this rich history, with remnants of colonial architecture and historical landmarks scattered throughout, including Fort Santo Domingo, known as the “Red Fort”. Originally built by the Spanish in 1629 during their colonial expansion in the region, it has changed hands many times since their expulsion in 1642 – the Dutch ousted the Spanish, then the Chinese Qing Dynasty were in control for 200 years before the British took it over in 1868 and used it as their consulate until they left in 1972, at which point Australia held it as our consulate for a while.  

After visiting the fort, there’ll be plenty of free time to explore Tamsui Old Street. You may even wish to stay a little longer and take the subway back to the hotel in your own time.

Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant just a short walk from the hotel.

Overnight: Regent Taipei, Taipei or similar (B,L,D)

This morning after breakfast and check out we’ll transfer to the railway station to board Taiwan’s High Speed railway south to Miaoli. Here, we’ll explore the historic Sheng-Hsing (Shengxing) Train Station and examine the remains of the Longten Bridge. 

Sheng-Hsing Station was built in 1907 during the Japanese colonial era as part of the Taiwan Railway’s Western Line and served as a critical stop along the Old Mountain Line, a challenging railway route built to traverse Taiwan’s rugged terrain. Decommissioned in 1998, the station is now a preserved historical site and a symbol of Taiwan’s early railway history. Constructed  of wood and featuring traditional Japanese architectural elements, it is one of Taiwan’s best-preserved wooden train stations and situated at an altitude of 402.33 metres, was Taiwan’s highest train station during its operational years.

The original red brick Longten Bridge was built in 1906 during the Japanese colonial period and connected passengers on the old mountain rail line between Sheng-Hsing and Yutengping stations. The bridge was damaged beyond repair by a 7.1 earthquake in 1935 and a new iron bridge was constructed just 80 metres away. 

It’s then onto Taichung, where we’ll check into our hotel and here you’ll have the option to head out to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Fengjia Night Market. Dinner tonight is at leisure and we suggest you sample the plethora of local delicacies on offer at the market.

Overnight: The Place, Taichung or similar (B, L) 

TAICHUNG – SUN MOON LAKE

After breakfast and check out, we’ll kick off the day with a visit to the nearby city of Changhua, to see the Railway Administration Changhua Roundhouse, a must-see historic site that’s been dubbed “the last steam train paradise in the country!” This living monument is the only operating steam locomotive roundhouse in the country, and it’s dedicated to preserving the fascinating evolution of Taiwan’s railway history. It wouldn’t be a railway adventure without stopping here!

Enjoy lunch at leisure before we continue on by coach to one of the most revered sights in Taiwan—the magical Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan’s most iconic natural landmarks. Surrounded by lush mountains and offering serene views, it is the largest natural lake in Taiwan and gets its name from its distinctive shape – the eastern part resembles the sun, while the western part resembles the moon when viewed from above. Famous for its breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset, the area is rich in biodiversity, with vibrant flora and fauna.

Upon arrival, we’ll check into our beautiful hotel for some time to relax before gathering for dinner in the hotel restaurant.  

Overnight: Wyndham Sunmoon Lake or similar (B,D) 

SUN MOON LAKE

This morning after breakfast we’ll explore the wider lake district, starting with a short coach ride to enjoy a guided tour of the Chung Tai World Museum, a cultural and architectural landmark featuring an extensive collection of Buddhist artifacts and treasures from different periods and regions, and considered a ‘must-visit’ for those interested in Buddhism, art, and history. It is widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost collections of Buddhist art and home to a number of extremely rare Sanskrit manuscripts.

After our visit, we’ll pause for some lunch at leisure before taking a short coach ride to the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway—a spectacular 7-minute cable car journey between the Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village and the shores of Sun Moon Lake, offering a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape and the azure waters of Sun Moon Lake, green hills, and picturesque villages.  

The rest of your afternoon is at leisure and dinner tonight will be at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Wyndham Sunmoon Lake or similar  (B,D) 

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll make our way to Chiayi to board a private rail car to ride the Alishan Centennial Railway segment of the Alishan Forest Railway, one of Taiwan’s most famous heritage railways running through the beautiful Alishan Mountain Range. The only railway in the world that climbs from near sea level to over 2400m in just 75 kilometres, it is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, historical significance, and the unique travel experience it offers. Built in 1906 by the Japanese Colonial Government to facilitate logging, this special journey includes rare z-shaped switchbacks, over 50 tunnels and 77 wooden bridges, making it one of the most fascinating rail journeys in the world.

From Chiayi to Zhuqi Station, our climb is a gentle one as we travel through farmland, cross rice paddies, and pass through isolated mountain villages to reach our scheduled lunch stop at the delightful mountain town of Fenqihu. 

Back on the train, we’ll climb steeply through a series of switchbacks up the great ridge passing through Erwin Ping Village and ShenMue Station, the giant fallen ‘God Tree’ and on to Alishan Station, located in the middle of the magnificent Alishan Forest Recreation Area. Our private coach will be there to transfer us to our hotel.  

Dinner tonight will be in the hotel restaurant.

Overnight: Alishan House, Alishan or similar (B, L, D) 

It’s an early start today but so very worth it! It may be the only time you’ll get to experience the sun rise above Taiwan’s highest mountain peak, Jade Mountain, from the highest railway station in Taiwan. You’ll travel by rail from Alishan to Zhushan Station, on a short but iconic segment of the Alishan Forest Railway, a section known for its breathtaking views, cultural significance, and sunrise experience. On clear days, the sunlight reflects off the “sea of clouds,” creating a dreamlike atmosphere, and the colors of dawn, transitioning from deep blue to fiery orange and soft gold, are described by those who have witnessed it as breathtaking. You’ll be back at the hotel for breakfast and a free morning.

We’ll enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before returning to Fenquihu (our lunch spot yesterday) for a proper visit A charming, historic village nestled in the Alishan mountains at an altitude of about 1,400 metres, Fenqihu is known for its nostalgic atmosphere, railway heritage, and natural beauty. Originally a midpoint station on the Alishan Forest Railway, Fenqihu was where steam trains would stop for passengers and refueling.

There’ll be time to explore the town’s “old street”, lined with traditional shops and cafes, as well as the locomotive engine shed and a charming station building. If you’re up for it, take a stone staircase to a wonderful lookout from where the railway sidings, sheds and station below look just like a model railway. The afternoon will be capped off with a visit to a traditional teahouse before returning to Alishan township.

Dinner tonight will be at our hotel.  

Overnight: Alishan House, Alishan or similar (B,L,D) 

After breakfast and check out, we’ll journey by coach back to Chiayi for a closer look at this historic city nestled below Mount Alishan. Dating back to the Qing Dynasty, the city saw significant development during the Japanese colonial era, including infrastructure improvements like railways and modern urban planning.

Upon arrival, we’ll board the Taisugar Santour Sugar Train, which takes us to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum. This stunning museum, known for its modern design and vast collection, highlights Chinese art and culture, with exhibits spanning from ancient to contemporary.

After lunch in a local restaurant, we’ll make a visit to Hinoki Village, a unique destination that was originally part of a Japanese-era lumber factory during Taiwan’s period of Japanese colonisation (1895–1945). The village features beautifully preserved wooden buildings constructed using hinoki cypress and is a vibrant Japanese cultural hub – local craftspeople and artists sell handmade goods, including ceramics, textiles and wooden craft.

This evening, we will experience the mesmerising Taiwan Lantern Festival, where dazzling lantern displays illuminate the night sky. Celebrated annually, this vibrant festival showcases intricate light installations, cultural performances and traditional folk arts. You will have time at leisure to explore the many displays and food stalls. 

Overnight: Maison De Chine, Chiayi or similar (B, L) 

In the late morning after breakfast and check out, it’s off to the Chiayi High Speed Rail Station for the high speed train to Tainan, the island’s oldest city. Established in 1624 by the Dutch East India Company as Fort Zeelandia, Tainan went on to serve as the island’s capital during the Qing Dynasty until 1887, making it a centre of administration, trade, and culture. Known as the “City of Temples,” it offers a mix of historical sites, traditional temples, bustling markets, and a charming city centre of narrow alleys, traditional shophouses, and historic temples. 

After lunch at a traditional local restaurant, we’ll stop at the privately owned Chimei Museum, a world-class museum renowned for its extensive and eclectic collections of art, musical instruments, natural history, and historical artifacts. Founded by Shi Wen-long, the founder of Chimei Corporation, it reflects his passion for art, culture, and education, and boasts one of the largest collections of musical instruments in the world – over 1,300 items including rare violins by Antonio Stradivari and Guarneri del Gesù.

Next and before continuing our journey to Kaohsiung, our final destination today,  we’ll visit Anping Old Fort, one of Tainan’s most famous historical landmarks, and the 17th-century Tainan Confucius Temple, also known as the Scholars’ Temple, the oldest Confucian temple in Taiwan.

Anping Old Fort, also known as Fort Zeelandia, was built in 1624 by the Dutch East India Company as a key administrative and military base. In 1662, Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong), a Ming Dynasty loyalist, captured the fort after a nine-month siege, marking the end of Dutch rule in Taiwan. In later years, under Qing rule, the fort lost its military significance and gradually deteriorated.  Today, it has been preserved and restored as a historical site offering visitors the chance to see remnants of the original walls and bastions, showcasing Dutch engineering techniques, including walls constructed with a mix of bricks and oyster shells, a unique feature of the fort.

The Tainan Confucius Temple, also known as the Scholars’ Temple, was built in 1665 during the early Qing Dynasty by Zheng Jing (son of Koxinga) and has served as a center of Confucian learning and culture for centuries. This historic site reflects the deep-rooted influence of Confucianism in Taiwan and remains a symbol of education and traditional values.

Later in the afternoon, we’ll board a coach and head further south to Kaohsiung where we’ll go directly to a local restaurant famous for its traditional Beef Soup. After enjoying dinner, we’ll check into our hotel.  

Overnight: Grand Hi Lai Hotel, Kaohsiung or similar (B, L, D) 

Kaohsiung, also known as “The Harbor Capital” due to its significance as Taiwan’s largest port, is the island’s second-largest. Known for its modern skyline, bustling port, and laid-back vibe, Kaohsiung offers a mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty, a lovely contrast to the hustle and bustle of Taipei. This morning after a late breakfast, we’ll visit two very different but equally significant sites – the Lotus Pond and the Pier-2 Arts Centre.  

The Lotus Pond is a stunning man-made lake renowned for its vibrant temples, pagodas, including the iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, the grand Confucius Temple and the Spring and Autumn Pavilions.  It is believed that entering a dragon’s throat and coming out a tiger’s mouth brings good fortune. Spanning over 42 hectares, the pond is surrounded by lotus plants, which bloom during summer and lend the area its name. 

After lunch at a local restaurant enjoying a local speciality, we’ll continue on to the Pier-2 Art centre. In direct contrast to the peaceful and spiritual surrounds of the Lotus Pond, the Pier-2 Art Centre is a former warehouse district turned into a vibrant art hub featuring exhibitions, murals, and creative spaces. Originally consisting of old warehouses and industrial buildings, dating back to the 1980s, when they were part of the port’s operation, the city government decided to repurpose the area in the early 2000s as an arts district, preserving the industrial architecture while adding contemporary cultural elements. Since then, it has become a symbol of Kaohsiung’s urban regeneration.

This evening we’ll have dinner together at a local restaurant before exploring one of Kaohsiung’s most famous night markets, the Liuhe Night Market. 

Overnight: Grand Hi Lai Hotel, Kaohsiung or similar  (B,L,D) 

This morning after breakfast and checking out, we’ll travel across to the eastern side of the island by train – less populated than where we’ve been so far and home to many of Taiwan’s Indigenous peoples, including the Amis, Paiwan, and Tao tribes. 

Departing Kaohsiung, our comfortably appointed local express passes through industrial areas before unfolding views of rice, corn, and canola fields. The scenery shifts as we traverse mountain ranges and fast-flowing rivers, skirting the southern peninsula until, eventually, the train hugs the coast, sometimes running right beside the water’s edge.  

Upon arrival at Chihpen station, we’ll transfer to Chihpen Hot Spring Street, lined with restaurants, hotels and shops centred around the hot springs that the area is famous for. We’ll have some free time here to have lunch at leisure and get a sense of this extraordinary place before transferring to the National Forest Recreation Area, one of Taiwan’s premier natural attractions. Celebrated for its lush forests, scenic landscapes, hot springs, and abundant biodiversity, you can marvel at the towering trees, including Taiwan acacia, camphor trees, orchids and ferns endemic to the area; do some bird spotting of species such as Taiwan blue magpies, mountain hawk-eagles, and black bulbul; get up close and personal with deer and macaques; or just enjoy some gentle “forest bathing” (shinrin-yoku), immersing yourself in the calming atmosphere of nature.

It’s then on to our hotel in nearby Taitung to check in and have some downtime before gathering together for dinner in the hotel restaurant.

Overnight: Taitung Sheraton Hotel, Taitung or similar (B, D) 

This morning after breakfast and checkout, we’ll transfer to Taitung Station and board the comfortable Limited Express train, which will take us inland to Hualien, renowned for its natural and unspoiled beauty. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Central Mountain Range to the west, the region is characterized by rugged coastlines, verdant valleys and dramatic mountain peaks, and is home to some of Taiwan’s most iconic natural attractions and the headquarters of the Tzu Chi Foundation, the prominent Buddhist organisation, famous for its hospitals, schools, and other humanitarian efforts.

Upon arrival, we’ll take some time for lunch at leisure before heading off to explore one of the great wonders, Taroko Gorge. Formed by the Liwu River cutting through the marble and granite cliffs over millions of years, the gorge features a variety of flora and fauna, and is celebrated for its steep cliffs, winding roads, and the vivid blue-green waters of the Liwu River. Due to the damage sustained from an earthquake in April 2024, we may not be able to walk into some of the more inaccessible parts of the gorge but will certainly enjoy a drive to the accessible sites. 

We’ll then go directly to our hotel to check in and have some downtime before regrouping for dinner together in the hotel restaurant.

Overnight: Hualien Lakeshore Hotel, Hualien (B, D) 

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll continue north by train to Yilan Station. Upon arrival, we’ll be met by our private coach and transferred to Luodong Culture Park, a 16-hectare park that preserves the region’s rich forestry heritage, showcasing historical facilities such as sawmills, lumber yards, and workers’ dormitories, as well as an homage to the crucial role that railways played in the forestry industry – the bamboo train station and steam locomotive exhibition.  

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll check into our hotel for an afternoon and evening at leisure, perhaps visiting the Ludong Night Market, known for its vibrant stalls, local delicacies, and lively atmosphere.

Overnight: Four Points by Sheraton, Yilan (B, L) 

This morning after breakfast and checkout, we’ll transfer to the railway station to begin our journey north back towards Taipei. The train journey from Yilan to Taipei, including stops in Ruifang and Shifen, is one of Taiwan’s most scenic and culturally rich rail routes. At Ruifang Station, we transfer to the historic Pingxi Line, originally built to transport coal.

Shifen is renowned for its picturesque railway station, the stunning Shifen Waterfall, and the iconic sky lantern tradition. Historical and charming Shifen Old Street, our stop this morning, is most unique – it runs alongside the railway tracks, with trains passing through periodically. You’ll have time to walk on the tracks and explore the street food, handmade craft shops that line them. But watch for trains! 

The tradition of sky lanterns originated during the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 AD) in China as a means of signalling troops. Over time the practice spread beyond military use and evolved into a cultural tradition, most significantly as a way for villages to signal danger to their neighbours when bandits were present in the mountainous terrain.  In modern times, the lanterns represent a symbol of hope and good fortune.  You’ll have the chance to personalise a lantern with wishes for health, love, and success before releasing it into the sky.

We’ll then visit the XPX Taiwan Coal Mine Museum, a fascinating historical attraction offering a glimpse into Taiwan’s once thriving coal mining industry, showcasing the tools, technology, and lifestyles of miners who worked in the region during its peak industrial era. Its location on the site of a former coal mine, provides an authentic experience as you explore the exhibits, photographs and documents and enjoy an interactive tunnel tour. A special treat here will be a ride on a small coal train that once transported miners and coal, along tracks surrounded by lush greenery, offering a scenic and nostalgic journey.

It’s then back on the train to Taipei to check into our hotel and enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant.  

Overnight: Regent Taipei, Taipei or similar (B, L, D) 

After a leisurely breakfast, we visit the National Palace Museum, one of the most renowned museums in the world, especially known for its vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts. 

Established in 1925 in Beijing, the museum was relocated to Taiwan in 1949 by Chiang Kai-shek when he retreated from the Communist forces during the Chinese Civil War. Safeguarded in the hills near Taipei, these treasures represent the pinnacle of Chinese artistry, with the museum housing over 700,000 items spanning 5,000 years of Chinese history. The museum’s collection includes bronzes, ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, jade, gems, and historical documents, with some of the pieces dating back to ancient China. It also contains many invaluable works from different Chinese dynasties, such as the Qin, Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing. The museum’s design is also notable,  featuring a central hall with surrounding galleries and tranquil courtyards and blending traditional Chinese architectural elements with modern museum features. 

Your afternoon and evening is at leisure to explore Taipei at your own pace. Your Tour Leader and Guide will have loads of suggestions for interesting things to see and do.

Overnight: Regent Taipei, Taipei or similar (B) 

This morning after breakfast we’ll board our private coach for an excursion to the magnificent Wulai district, known for beautiful natural landscapes, hot springs, and indigenous culture. Nestled in the Taipei Basin and surrounded by lush mountains, dense forests, and the Nanshi River, it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Here, we’ll ride the quirky, little Wulai Log Cart, a historical and cultural feature of Wulai District, serving as a symbol of the area’s indigenous heritage and its connection to the timber industry in Taiwan, and visit one of Wulai’s most famous natural attractions, the picturesque Wulai Waterfall, cascading down an 80-metre cliff and fondly referred to as the “waterfall in the cloud”.

Wulai is home to the Atayal people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes, and we’ll be privileged to experience a cultural performance before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant near Wulai Old Street. There’ll be some time after lunch to explore this fascinating street,paved in stone slate and filled with shops, local food stalls, and traditional indigenous handicrafts such as woven baskets and handmade jewellery. 

We’ll return to our hotel in Taipei for some downtime before heading out to enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner with drinks. 

Overnight: Regent Taipei, Taipei or similar (B,L,D) 

Our tour comes to an end after breakfast this morning.