TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan Railway Corporation (TRC) announced a special tourism opportunity that allows travelers to enjoy the luxury of the “presidential train carriage,” one of Taiwan Railways’ most cherished historical artifacts. 

In a social media post on Sunday (Sept. 15), TRC unveiled a replica of the “presidential train carriage,” which travelers can use to explore the culture and beauty of Taiwan’s east coast. Tickets will officially go on sale at 10 a.m. on Sept. 18, starting at NT$3,990 (US$125), for a two-day, one-night tour aboard the presidential train car. 

The original presidential train carriage was built in 1967, but it was not put to use until 1991. In that year, then President Lee Tung-hui (李登輝) rode in the unique train car on a round-the-island inspection of Taiwan’s railway system. 

After the TRC was restructured into a private company, the directors decided to allow the public to enjoy a bit of old-fashioned presidential luxury. In cooperation with the Tourism Administration and businesses in Hualien and Taitung, TRC invites guests to experience a bit of living history on a railway tour in the presidential train carriage.  

In addition to riding aboard the presidential train carriage, guests will also receive a guided tour and history lesson with retro railway bento boxes designed like those served aboard trains in the 1950s. 

Due to limited space, only small group tours are available, and tickets are expected to sell out quickly. TRC encourages those interested to seize the opportunity to ride aboard a “mobile museum” of Taiwan’s presidential history.  

During October, the train will be used for tours between Hualien Station and Fuli Station in Hualien County. In November, the train’s route will run between Taitung Train Station and Ruisui Station in Hualien.  

Various packages are available that include hotel stays and activities at stations along the route, including musical performances and craft markets.