On January 25, 2026, Ōigawa Railway and Taiwan’s Alishan Forest Railway celebrated the 40th anniversary of their sister railway partnership.
Since forming the partnership in 1986, the two railways have upheld a shared commitment to promoting regional friendship and exchange, learning from one another, and contributing to the development of their communities and the goodwill between Japan and Taiwan.
To mark this milestone, the two railways are launching special collaborative initiatives that invite travelers to experience the charm of both lines.
About the Alishan Forest Railway
The Alishan Forest Railway is a 762 mm narrow-gauge mountain and forest railway running from Chiayi City in southern Taiwan up to the Alishan region, with several branch lines extending into the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area. Its route climbs dramatically from around 30 meters above sea level to over 2,200 meters, creating a vertical ascent of more than 2,250 meters. Along the way, passengers can enjoy landscapes that shift from tropical forests to misty high‑mountain scenery. The line is also known for its dynamic engineering features—including loop tracks and switchbacks—designed to overcome steep gradients, making it especially appealing to railway enthusiasts.
The Alishan Main Line, which had been out of service for many years due to storm damage, was fully restored last year. Since reopening, it has drawn significant attention and sparked a surge of visitors from Taiwan and abroad.
The railway also shares many similarities with Japan’s Ōigawa Railway (Ikawa Line), including its origins as a forest railway, its character as a mountain line, and its history of operating steam locomotives. Both railways continue to be cherished by travelers seeking scenic journeys through nature in Japan and Taiwan.
Ōigawa Railway Initiatives
Design of the planned commemorative headmark
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Commemorative headmarks on selected Ikawa Line trains
Headmarks will be installed once preparations are complete. Details regarding applicable trains will be announced separately. - Release of commemorative tickets (scheduled from March onward)
- Release of original merchandise (scheduled from March onward)
Alishan Forest Railway Initiatives
Photo courtesy of Alishan Forest Railway / Photographer: Wu Ming‑Han
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Operation of a wrapped coach inspired by the Ikawa Line
The special livery entered service on January 19. - Release of original merchandise (from March onward)
Joint Projects
The two railways are preparing special projects that will allow visitors to experience 40 years of exchange in a “rideable” and engaging form.
Details will be announced as soon as they are finalized.