Taiwan’s Jiji Line Reopens, Boosting Tourism to Nantou’s Healing Mountain City
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After a four-year hiatus, the Jiji Line railway in Taiwan has begun a phased reopening, commencing on January 5th. The resumption of service, starting between Zhuoshui and jiji Station, is expected to revitalize tourism to Nantou, known as the “Healing Mountain City,” offering visitors a scenic rail journey alongside opportunities to enjoy local food, lodging, and attractions.
The reopening marks a significant moment for rail enthusiasts and travelers alike. According to reports,the inaugural run featured a specially painted train,quickly becoming a popular subject for photographs among passengers.
Restoring a Railway Memory
The closure of the Jiji Line had long been felt by residents and visitors. A senior official stated the reopening is about more then just transportation; it’s about “restarting a railway memory.” The project also aims to connect the region’s attractions with Taiwan’s high-speed rail network, creating a more extensive sightseeing corridor.
The first phase of the reopening is designed to establish a central tourist corridor, linking key destinations within Nantou County.This initiative is anticipated to stimulate economic growth and provide easier access to the region’s natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Why did the Jiji Line close? The jiji Line was initially suspended in 2019 following damage caused by a magnitude 6.4 earthquake. The quake triggered landslides and destabilized the railway tracks,necessitating extensive repairs and safety assessments. The line remained closed for four years as authorities worked to restore the infrastructure.
A Two-Phase Return to Service
The Jiji Line’s restoration will occur in two phases. While the initial phase focuses on the Zhuoshui to Jiji Station segment, plans are underway for a full resumption of service. Details regarding the timeline for the second phase have not yet been released.
The return of the railway is already generating excitement.Reports indicate a surge in interest in travel packages that incorporate the Jiji Line, with recommended tours highlighting the region’s unique offerings. One analyst noted the reopening is “a welcome boost for the tourism sector, especially after the challenges of recent years.”
The renewed service offers a slower, more immersive way to experience the landscape compared to high-speed rail. Travelers can anticipate enjoying the picturesque views and charming towns along the route, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.
who is benefiting from the reopening? The primary beneficiaries are the residents of Nantou County, who will regain a vital transportation link, and the tourism industry, which anticipates a significant increase in visitors. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, are also expected to see a boost in revenue. The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) is also benefiting by restoring a popular route.
What is the scope of the reopening? The initial reopening covers the 12.9-kilometer stretch between Zhuoshui and Jiji Station.This phase focuses on restoring core services and establishing a central tourist corridor. The second phase aims to fully restore the entire Jiji Line, but a timeline has not been announced. The TRA is working to ensure the safety and reliability of the entire line before resuming full service.
How was the restoration achieved? The restoration involved extensive repairs to damaged tracks, bridges, and tunnels.Landslide stabilization measures were implemented to prevent future disruptions. The TRA collaborated with engineering experts and local authorities to ensure the project met stringent safety standards. The specially painted train used for the inaugural run symbolizes the line’s rebirth and the renewed hope for tourism in nantou.
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