TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The century-old Alishan Forest Railway which suspended operations for 15 years after being severely damaged by typhoons will resume operations on Saturday (July 6).
Tickets from July 6-16, including the first train, will be available for online booking starting at 2 p.m. Tuesday (July 2), reported CNA. The full fare from Chiayi to Alishan is NT$600 (US$18.38).
Alishan Forest Railway and Cultural Heritage Office Deputy Director Chou Heng-kai (周恆凱) told CNA that after the completion of the new tunnel No. 42, the entire line will be opened for service and a new timetable will be launched on Saturday, with four departures per day. The following is the new schedule:
9 a.m. from Chiayi Station to Shizilu Station
- 10 a.m. from Chiayi Station to Alishan Station (with a 1-hour stop at Fenqihu Station)
- 11:50 a.m. from Alishan Station to Chiayi Station
- 2 p.m. from Shizilu Station to Chiayi Station
Chou said ticket prices have not increased yet. The Alishan Forest Railway and Cultural Heritage Office has purchased nine locomotives and 48 carriages, which are expected to go into operation in the second half of 2025 when ticket prices will be reviewed for adjustment.
To meet the demand for rides after the full resumption of service, Chou said tickets for the Chiayi to Alishan train will be available for booking 14 days before the travel date, prioritizing tickets to Alishan Station from the Chiayi and Beimen stations. If there are remaining seats, tickets for the Chiayi to Fenqihu section will be available for booking three days before the travel date.
