Wulai Scenic Train
Taiwan · New Taipei City · Wulai District · Nature & Scenery
Image source: Taiwan_Opendata; license credits as shown.
Overview
The Wulai Scenic Train began as a timber transport rail line. As tourism developed around Wulai Waterfall, passenger service was officially launched in 1963, initially with passengers pushed by hand. In 1974, the line was motorized with diesel engines to meet growing demand, and in 1987 a tunnel was excavated at the Waterfall Station to replace the original turntable, which remains in use today. The operating route runs 1.5 kilometers from Wulai to the waterfall, with round-trip service daily from 9:00 to 17:00 and extended hours during the summer peak season, operating on demand to serve visitors.
Getting There
By car: Take National Freeway 3 and exit at Xindian Interchange → Zhongxing Road in Xindian → Beiyi Road → turn right onto Xinwu Road → Wulai. The drive takes about 30–40 minutes. Public transport: Take the MRT Xindian Line to Xindian Station, then transfer to Xindian Bus Route 849 (Taipei–Wulai; check the Xindian Bus website for departure times and route details) to Wulai Bus Terminal (Wulai Old Street).
Highlights
Located in Wulai District, New Taipei City, the Wulai Scenic Train is a small tourist railway transformed from a former forestry transport line. It runs along a river valley and mountainside, connecting Wulai Old Street, the hot spring area, and Wulai Waterfall, making it one of the most iconic experiences in Wulai. The train is powered by a diesel engine, with compact cars and a slow speed, taking about five minutes to reach Waterfall Station. Along the way, passengers can enjoy mountain and stream scenery, making it especially suitable for families, older travelers, and railway enthusiasts. With its blend of history, indigenous culture, and natural scenery, the Wulai Scenic Train offers an excellent window into Wulai’s development and forestry history, evolving from a hand-pushed timber rail line into a tourist attraction.
What to See
Wulai Train Station: Located near Wulai Old Street and the hot spring area, this is the starting point for visitors. Nearby are hot spring hotels, shops, and indigenous-style decorations, offering a chance to stroll and experience the Atayal tribal atmosphere. Valley scenery along the route: The train hugs the mountainside and riverbank, allowing riders to look down on the stream and the forested hills across the river. Although the route is short, the view is open and ideal for photos, making it one of the easiest ways to enjoy the scenery in Wulai. Tunnel section: To replace the earlier turntable, a tunnel was specially carved near the end of the line. Entering the tunnel creates a very different atmosphere and also reflects the engineering techniques and historical changes of the time. Waterfall Station and Wulai Waterfall: From the terminal station, it is only a short walk to Wulai Waterfall, one of the area’s most famous natural landmarks. It can be combined with nearby trails, viewing platforms, and the cable car for a fuller sightseeing itinerary.
Address
No. 2, Lane 86, Hot Spring Street, Wulai District, New Taipei City 233 Tel: (02) 2661 7826
Travel Tips
It is best to plan a ride on the Wulai Scenic Train on the same day you visit Wulai Old Street and the waterfall. Stroll through the old street first to sample local snacks, then walk to the train station and ride up to the waterfall. Crowds are usually lighter on weekdays, while weekends and consecutive holidays can mean longer waits, so arrive early and leave some flexibility in your schedule. The cars are mostly open or semi-open, so summer sun can be strong; bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. In winter, the mountain area can be cool, so a jacket is recommended. The train is not extremely fast, but there is still noticeable swaying when turning or accelerating and braking, so keep phones and cameras secure and hold the handrails firmly. If you are prone to motion sickness, choose an outside seat with a better view and focus on the distant scenery. Wulai is a mountain destination, and afternoon mist or localized rain can occur, so a light raincoat or umbrella is useful. During peak travel periods such as summer vacation and holidays, flexible departures may be implemented, often in a "depart when full" format rather than a fixed timetable. If a train is full, simply wait patiently for the next one. You can also combine the train with Lover’s Trail and a walk through Wulai Old Street, using an "up by train, down by foot" route to save energy and enjoy the valley from different angles.
Nearby Dining
The area beside Wulai Train Station is also the main Wulai Old Street and hot spring street district, where many restaurants and snack shops serve local dishes. Many places focus on mountain ingredients and indigenous-style cuisine, with grilled items, wild vegetables, and bamboo-tube dishes commonly available. Visitors can eat in the old street first or buy snacks before walking to the train station and riding to the waterfall. If your schedule is more relaxed, you can also take the train to the waterfall first and then leisurely look for food on the way back through the old street. Most shops open mainly during daytime and early evening, so it is best not to arrive too late, or your choices may be limited.
FAQ
Q：How long does a one-way ride on the Wulai Scenic Train usually take? A：The distance from Wulai Train Station to Waterfall Station is a little over one kilometer. Because the train runs slowly, a one-way trip usually takes about five minutes. The overall experience is short, making it easy to fit between a walk in the old street and a visit to the waterfall. Q：Is the Wulai Scenic Train suitable for children or older adults? A：The route is short and the ride time is not long. It is primarily a sightseeing service and is easy to use, so it is relatively friendly for children and older adults with sufficient mobility. It is still recommended to help children and older passengers when boarding and alighting, and to watch for train movement and the height difference between the platform and the car. Q：Do I need to reserve tickets or check a timetable in advance? A：In general, it operates on a walk-up basis. Trains usually depart when a certain number of passengers have gathered rather than strictly following a fixed timetable. During peak seasons and holidays, you can queue on site. For group travel or special arrangements, it is best to check the latest rules with the relevant authority or visitor service center in advance. Q：How should I plan transportation and walking routes to the Wulai Train Station? A：Most visitors take public transport or drive to the Wulai Old Street area first, then walk from the old street to the train station. There are signposts and bridges connecting the two sides of the area, and the walk is not long. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for moving between the old street, trails, and waterfall area.
