Wulai sightseeing trolley

The Wulai trolley in Wulai District, New Taipei City, originally transported timber. As tourism at Wulai Waterfall created demand, passenger service officially began in 1963 (ROC year 52), with workers pushing the trolleys by hand. To accommodate growing visitor numbers, diesel-powered operation began in 1974 (ROC year 63). In 1987 (ROC year 76), a tunnel was dug at Waterfall Station to replace the turntable, and that arrangement remains in use. After logging declined, the trolley became a means of carrying visitors, switching to sightseeing passenger service in 1963 (ROC year 52). Its simple design belies its brisk pace: the approximately 1.6-kilometer trip from the starting station to Waterfall Station passes quickly, with forest views through the open windows and doors. Beside the tracks, Lovers’ Trail follows the Nanshi River valley. One suggested route is to ride uphill and walk downhill along Lovers’ Trail to Lansheng Bridge. With a mountainside on one side and the stream on the other, this gentle walk offers fresh air, negative ions and a relaxing outing. Text and images: New Taipei City Tourism Website.