Travel
Driving Taiwan’s Alishan Forest Railway
Our sluggish journey collection explores how one can take extra conscious journeys by prepare, boat, bus, or bike – with tips about learn how to attain your vacation spot with out flying, and what to see and do alongside the best way. Right here, we be part of Lonely Planet contributor Brian Healy on the 112-year-old Alishan Forest Railway in Taiwan following its current makeover.
What makes a misty mountaintop forest much more magical? The prepare experience to get there.
Climbing some 7000ft over three (lengthy!) hours, the narrow-gauge Alishan Forest Railway in Western Taiwan has lengthy attracted rail fans.
Constructed by the occupying Japanese in 1912 as a option to carry timber all the way down to Taiwan’s densely populated west coast and ship to elsewhere in Asia, the undersized automobiles move by way of 50 tunnels and throughout 77 bridges as they wind their approach as much as a dense space of old-growth timber.
From timber to tourism
Initially populated by the Indigenous Tsou folks, this lush, high-altitude area has groves of Taiwania conifers, Formosa cypress, Douglas fir and different prized tree specimens. Collectively they make up the Alishan Forest Recreation Area.
Providing guests aid from the sweltering coast, the railway confronted closure on a number of events because the timber business withered as Taiwan industrialized after WWII. Luckily, rail fans rallied to avoid wasting the route – and at present, it exists as a pleasant, eccentric jewel in Taiwan’s nationwide prepare community.
With Z-shaped switchbacks and looping tunnels, the railway is a marvel – or maybe a folly – of engineering. Schematic renderings of the route seem like geometric spaghetti.
Trains depart from Chiayi and scrubby inexperienced woods give option to staggering vistas of the plains because the prepare banks round an escarpment. Clattering over trestles, negotiating curves, passing by way of tunnel after tunnel (is that this one the third or the twelfth?), the prepare makes its approach slowly, inexorably, and nearly imperceptibly, upward.
Shortly earlier than Shizilu station, the spectacular rock face of Mt Daito (additionally referred to as Mt Ta) seems – reminding passengers that the diminutive carriages have already traveled up some 5000ft (1500m). Solely 2000ft (610m) extra to go.
Preserve an eye fixed out for the narrowest tracks
The railway originates from the primary station of Chiayi, a regional metropolis whose bustling facet streets and evening markets are nicely price exploring. Uniformed rangers at a devoted window hand passengers their tickets (reserving online upfront is important). You then comply with well-marked indicators to a separate platform the place the tracks are visibly narrower than these on the primary line a number of ft away.
A superbly painted, candy-apple-red diesel engine pushes the carriages, which have acquired retrofits. They now embrace air-con and new seats in a two-and-two configuration. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to nonetheless see their age in particulars just like the heavy-metal {hardware} and an deserted panel of switches and knobs that after managed the cabin. The total-train intercom system is a much less welcome improve. The conductor offers commentary for nearly the whole experience, largely in Mandarin.
We chug by way of Chiayi at avenue degree. Dozens of motorbikes wait as we move every grade crossing. The rear balconies of the town”s condominium blocks abut the monitor as we proceed by way of the town’s periphery. Lastly, potato fields and groves of betel-nut palms seem.
The prepare calls at a number of sleepy stations earlier than the climb begins. At 330m (1083ft), views of the hazy coastal plain under begin to open up. The conductor informs us the monitor now reaches an astonishing 5% gradient at sure factors. Hikers disembark at distant Dulishan station. I’m wondering if they’re strolling again to Chiayi on foot. The prepare continues its serpentine ascent. As a consequence of hurricane harm, Shizilu – a number of kilometers wanting the forest correct – is the uppermost cease on the road for now. A bus takes us to the reserve entrance through a number of switchbacks. Authorities count on to complete restoring the road quickly.
A brief experience additional as much as a sluggish stroll by way of the woods
Coming into the park on foot, my husband and I hustle previous the coach-choked customer heart and purchasing plaza to Alishan prepare station, which is able to quickly be the railway terminus once more. It is a gleaming timber-beam construction that might maintain its personal in opposition to any depot within the Swiss Alps that gives passengers a bonus journey: a seven-minute jaunt up additional to Zhaoping.
Long-established from native (now endangered) Taiwanese cypress, the vintage carriages have been lovingly restored. Their interiors give off a faint, nice odor of sanded wooden and linseed oil. The automobiles creak and groan by way of open home windows because the prepare navigates the quick, very curvy closing stretch. The bullet prepare certain doesn’t sound like this.
Just a few steps from Zhaoping station, we’re surrounded by big timber that stretch up into the clouds. We stroll just a little additional to get off of the primary circuit. Instantly, we have now the forest to ourselves. We begin up the Tashan Path and sort out a number of hundred of its 1000’s of steps earlier than we meet the winding railway monitor as soon as once more. We then comply with the easily graded monitor a part of the best way again all the way down to Alishan station.
The ambiance of the verdant forest offers a shocking serenity. The energetic seniors, birdwatchers, schoolchildren and some fellow foreigners we encounter are as engrossed by nature as we’re – and all it took was a 111-year-old railway to the clouds.
A more in-depth have a look at the gear
Again in Chiayi the subsequent day, we head to Alishan Forest Railway Garage Park, subsequent to the depot that retains the energetic rolling inventory shipshape. It has classic steam locomotives and carriages on everlasting show. The leafy setting, the spectacular and diminutive gear, and the locomotive turntable make the scene as near the TV present Thomas the Tank Engine as you may get in the true world.
I hear the sign bell activate and see the crossing gate decrease because the morning departure units out for its each day climb. I wave to the passengers because the prepare trundles by, questioning in the event that they know what awaits them up there within the clouds.
How you can make it occur
The Alishan Forest Railway departs from Chiayi station every day at 9 am. There are two supplemental departures on weekends (at 8:30 am and 9:30 am.
As track-restoration work continues, outbound trains terminate at both Shizliu or Fenqihu stations. From there, it’s good to proceed to Alishan Forest Recreation Space by bus. The return journey departs Shizliu at 1:50 pm. A one-way adult fare costs about US$15; tickets go on sale two weeks earlier than departure and promote out rapidly. Book ahead.
Throughout the park, department traces that includes classic carriages depart often from Alishan station to Shenmu and Zhaoping (US$3.25; no reservations needed). One prepare a day leaves from Alishan station to the well-known sunrise-viewing platform at Zhushan, timed to arrive simply earlier than dawn (tickets US$4.75; reservations extremely suggested).
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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