Z-switchbacks
Forward and back.
CEphoto, Uwe Aranas — CC BY-SA 3.0 · CEphoto, Uwe Aranas — CC BY-SA 3.0 · CEphoto, Uwe Aranas — CC BY-SA 3.0 · CEphoto, Uwe Aranas — CC BY-SA 3.0
An 86-kilometre narrow-gauge network built in the Japanese era in the early 20th century to carry cypress timber down from the mountains, now one of the world's most famous mountain train rides, climbing from the Chiayi plain near the sea to more than two thousand metres. On the way the little red train passes over fifty tunnels and 77 wooden bridges and climbs slopes on Z-shaped switchbacks, going forward then back, while the forest around it changes from palms and bamboo to cedar and then giant cypress. The main line was closed for years after typhoon damage and reopened all the way to Alishan in summer 2024. From Alishan station short lines run to the Zhushan sunrise platform and the sacred tree forest, and old steam engines stand at the station. Fares vary by section and seats are limited, so book ahead, especially at weekends and in cherry-blossom season. Taiwan's typhoon season runs from June to October, peaking July to September, so check forecasts before heading to mountains and coasts, per UK travel advice.
Forward and back.
Through forest.
At the station.
From Chiayi city to Alishan station
Yes, the full line reopened to Alishan station in summer 2024 after years of closure; booking ahead is essential.
