Seeing Taiwan by train: Soaking up art, scenery and architecture from Taichung to Taitung

Taiwan offers a unique travel experience, combining art, scenery, and architecture along its train routes. In Taichung, visitors are greeted by an array of vibrant colors and a lively parade, as well as the eccentric Rainbow Village. The train journey to Hualien, home to the world's largest marble canyon, showcases Taiwan's lush greenery and rugged coastlines.

Local guide Udi, donning a bow tie and braces, provides an entertaining tour of the area, recounting the deadly earthquake that claimed 100 lives in its construction. Hualien's Qixingtan Beach boasts a striking contrast of blue skies and a dramatic grey shoreline.

Continuing on the train, the picturesque town of Meilunshun offers a glimpse into Taiwan's Japanese colonial past, with its heritage village and indigenous cafe. The next stop, Taitung, features the Makapahay indigenous culture festival, where visitors can witness traditional dances and chants performed by locals. Typhoon Danas forces a brief detour, but the heavy rain eventually clears, making way for a mesmerizing stroll along Seashore Park and a visit to the elaborate Tianhou Temple.

Further along the coast, Xiaoyeliu and Fugang Geopark reveal stunning volcanic formations, sandstone rocks, and the famous Eight-Arch Bridge. A scenic taxi tour and train journey connect the western town of Fangliao to Taiwan's southernmost destination, Kenting. The town's main street comes alive at night, with food carts, games, and pop-up bars drawing both locals and international tourists.

Finally, a rented scooter takes travelers to Cape Eluanbi, a natural wonder with volcanic rocks, caves, and Eluanbi Lighthouse. While searching for a Life of Pi movie location, the hilly route instead leads to surfers navigating typhoon debris. The journey concludes in Kaohsiung, a city that harmoniously blends traditional charm with modern sophistication.