Railway travel in Taiwan has come a long way since construction on the first railway line, between Taipei and Keelung, was launched in 1887. From those 28.6 kilometers of track, the railway network today operated by the Taiwan Railway Administration has grown to well over 1,000 kilometers and now includes trunk lines forming a loop around the island, along with four branch lines into Taiwan's mountainous interior. While the traditional railway network allows travelers to reach─or at least get close to─many of Taiwan's main tourist attractions, the newly established high-speed railway running between Taipei and Kaohsiung offers even more speed and more comfort. Combined, these two efficient and reliable networks are your optimal means of transport to get around and to discover the many fascinating faces of Taiwan. To those travelers with some time, I recommend taking one of the four branch railway lines, because each allows you to experience the true heart of Taiwan. You will meet local people, travel through rural countryside, make stops at tiny stations, come across stunningly beautiful scenery, learn about old industries such as mining and logging, and experience the culture of the Hakka people and Taiwan's indigenous tribes.

By taking the train you can also take in idyllic coastal scenery. At many spots along the northeastern and eastern coasts the railway line is so close to the ocean that you can even see the waves crashing over the rocks. This is good news for those travelers looking to frolic by the sea, because it means that getting to a number of popular seaside spots is possible by taking the train─though sometimes combined with a short bus trip or a long walk. Once at one of Taiwan's premier beaches there are a lot of options for having fun. Surfing, for example, has become increasingly popular among locals and foreign visitors in recent years. Conditions are ideal, with sandy beaches, sunny weather, and safe waters. But apart from looking for fun in and around the water, there is another reason why you should head to Taiwan's coast. The bizarre rock formations created by the forces of nature to be found at many locations around the island are truly unique and astonishing.

If you plan to visit the famous mountain resort of Alishan in south-central Taiwan, take the time to do more than just watch the sunrise over Jade Mountain and walk through the refreshing coniferous forest. To really appreciate the charm and hidden attractions of Alishan, take the alpine railway that starts near the coast at Chiayi and climbs to over 2,000 meters above sea level. Make a stop on the way at Fencihu station, stay at a homestay run by members of the Tsou tribe, explore the deep mountains on guided tours through bamboo forest, learn about the traditional ways of the local indigenous people or the cultivation of tea in the area, and return home with unforgettable memories of the land and the people.

There are many more ways than this, of course, to experience Taiwan. For more information visit the regularly update website of Tourism Bureau at www.taiwan.net.tw.

On behalf of the Tourism Bureau, I sincerely wish you a wonderful time while visiting Taiwan!