Jiji Small Rail Line

Introducing Jiji Small Rail Line

Like the Pingxi, Alishan and Neiwan lines (the latter closed at the time of writing), the 19km narrow-gauge Jiji Small Rail Line (Jíjí Xiǎo Huǒchē) once served an important industrial purpose. In the Jiji line’s case it was assisting in the construction of power plants. But these days the line remains open to boost local tourism.

The 45-minute train ride begins south of Changhua in the wide, fertile plains of Ershui. It then proceeds into the forested hills around Jiji and ends at Checheng, a vehicle yard surrounded by high mountains in Nantou County.

While the train ride is short, the list of things to see and do in this area is long: you can cycle, hike, bird- and monkey-watch, as well as visit temples, museums and historic buildings. You can visit any time of year, but don’t bother on a summer weekend when crowds really make the place unpleasant and miniscooters roar up and down the bike paths. Winter weekdays are lovely and quiet and the weather is usually dry and in the mid-20s. If you plan on staying in the area, a hotel in Jiji is your best choice. Accommodation in Shuili and Ershui is pretty dreary.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009