The Taiwanese have long enjoyed seamless travel on a modern rail transportation network, encompassing high-speed and mass rapid transport commuter routes. It is also a fuss-free way to get around for visiting tourists. However there is another rail experience tailor made for exploration beyond the main urban areas.
Taiwan’s bespoke ‘cruise-style’ trains continue to steadily grow in popularity as visitors seek off the beaten track destinations and embrace the slow travel lifestyle.
Dedicated cruise-liner trains have six passenger cars accommodating up to 280 passengers and allow travellers to hop on and hop off to explore destinations across Taiwan. There is a travel guide per car available at all times and at tourist spots passengers wish to visit, a guide is posted at various points offering assistance.
They are so-called as they simply stop at scenic spots and allow guests to disembark and explore the destination just like a conventional shore excursion.
The latest cruise-style train itinerary options are season specific and offer unique regional experiences and the rare chance to visit local festivals. This includes the daylily-bloom season in the mountains around Taimali, a Paiwan tribal village while the most sought-after are the Summer Formosa Steam Locomotive trips that run only three times a year in summer. This coal-fired historic locomotive offers the chance for passengers to relive the golden age of stream rail travel.
Other rail tour options include autumn trips in the lesser known regions of east and west of Taiwan. For visitors seeking comprehensive exploration, there is a 13-day Deluxe Round Taiwan Tour by Rail, available at TaiwanHolidays.com.au, priced at A$4500 per person. Additional rail tour products including a 3-day Taiwan Rail Pass at A$170 per person is also available to buy.
