Nantou Jiji Line Cycling Path: A Family-Friendly Route with a Little Train and a Green Tunnel

Introduction

The Jiji Line, one of TRA’s most famous branch railways, departs from Ershui Station, crosses the border between Changhua and Nantou, and passes through Yuanquan, Zhuoshui, Longquan, Jiji, and Shuili, covering a total length of 29.7 km. Built during the Taisho era of the Japanese colonial period, the railway was originally constructed to transport timber and agricultural products, and has now become one of the icons of Taiwan’s tourist railways.

The Jiji Bike Path runs alongside the railway, with an almost entirely flat profile, good road surface, and tree-lined shade with gentle breezes along the way. For families with children, or for anyone who wants to enjoy a cycling trip in a stress-free environment, the Jiji Line Bike Path is arguably the most perfect choice in Taiwan.

Route Details and Section Highlights

The Jiji Bike Path is approximately 30 km long. You can start from either Ershui or Shuili, and after completing the ride, take the Jiji Line train back (bicycles can be brought on board), which is very convenient.

The Green Tunnel: The Soul of the Bike Path

The most famous scenery along the Jiji Bike Path is the “Green Tunnel”—between Zhuoshui and Jiji, large numbers of native Taiwanese camphor trees line both sides of the road, most of them 50 to 80 years old or more, with canopies interweaving to form a natural green archway.

When cycling through in summer, the tunnel is cool and comfortable, with sunlight filtering through the leaves to cast golden dapples of light; in autumn and winter, a few camphor trees shed their leaves, and golden fallen leaves carpet the road, creating a rare autumn-leaf scene in Taiwan.

Best lighting hours: From 8 to 10 a.m., when low-angle sunlight pierces through the foliage, the play of light and shadow is at its most enchanting—also the favorite time for photography enthusiasts.

Cultural Experiences in Jiji Town

Jiji Township is the smallest township in Nantou County by area, with a population of under 20,000, yet it has become widely known thanks to the Jiji Line railway. Upon arriving in Jiji, it is recommended to park your bike and explore this town that preserves the atmosphere of the Japanese colonial era on foot:

• Jiji Station: Built in Japanese wooden architectural style, it was severely damaged in the 1999 921 Earthquake; after restoration, it has become one of Taiwan’s most iconic railway buildings
• Wuchang Temple: Dedicated to Xuantian Shangdi, with a camphor tree over 300 years old in front of the temple; it is the most important cultural and religious center of Jiji
• Jiji Endemic Species Research Institute: A key center for the conservation of Taiwan’s endangered species, where you can observe Taiwan’s native species up close

Notes for Family Cycling

The Jiji Bike Path is Taiwan’s most family-friendly cycling route, but there are still a few points that require special attention:

• Child seats or trailers: Children under 6 can use rear seats or tow-behind child trailers; many local bike rental shops in Jiji provide this equipment
• Road conditions: Some sections run parallel to motor vehicle lanes, so watch out for traffic; there are more tourist vehicles on holidays
• Hydration: Summer temperatures in Jiji can exceed 33°C, and children especially need to hydrate regularly
• Rest frequency: For family rides, it is recommended to rest for 10 minutes every 30-40 minutes of cycling to avoid overtiring children

Practical Tips

• Both Ershui Station and Jiji Station have several bike rental shops offering a variety of bike types (including children’s bikes and e-assist bikes)
• The Jiji Line train runs infrequently, so it is advisable to check TRA schedules in advance and plan your return time
• Jiji’s local specialties: bananas (Jiji bananas have a dense, sweet, and soft texture, completely different from those in regular supermarkets) and pineapples
• Nearby Checheng (Shuili Checheng) is also worth cycling to; the cultural and creative park converted from a historic timber industry settlement has a wonderful atmosphere
• The Nantou County Government website provides the latest road conditions and event information for the Jiji Bike Path

Conclusion

The Jiji Line Bike Path is Taiwan’s cycling route with the most “family warmth.” The train’s whistle, the swaying bamboo shadows, and children’s laughter echoing through the camphor tunnel—this route requires no physical challenge; it offers something more precious: a space for families to create beautiful memories together. Seize a sunny weekend in Nantou, bring your family, and let the Green Tunnel of the Jiji Line become part of your shared story.

Related Reading

• The Jiji You Can’t See from the Little Train: Riding Toward the Solitude and Vastness of Jiji Mountain’s Relay Station
• Taichung Dongfeng and Houfeng Bike Paths: A Family Green Corridor Along the Former Mountain Line
• Taitung Railway Bike Path: Easy Riding and Food Stops on a Tourist Route
• Selected Family Cycling Routes Across Taiwan: Introducing Kids to Taiwan’s Most Beautiful Bike Paths