Miaoli Old Mountain Line Rail Bike: A Slow Journey Through History on Two Wheels

The Story of the Old Mountain Line

The Old Mountain Line in Miaoli is an important piece of railway heritage in Taiwan’s history. Built during the Japanese colonial era (1905), it traversed the mountainous terrain of the Daan River Gorge with exceptional engineering skill. After the new Mountain Line opened in 1998, the Old Mountain Line was retired from service. After years of neglect, it was transformed into a rail bike tour combining historical culture with natural ecology.

Rail Bike Tour Overview

Route Highlights

Longteng Broken Bridge

Known as “Miaoli’s most beautiful ruin,” this century-old brick arch bridge built in 1905 was left in ruins after the 1935 earthquake, creating a unique broken-bridge aesthetic. Riding the rail bike past it now allows you to appreciate this piece of living history up close.

Shengxing Station

The best-preserved station building on the Old Mountain Line, and the highest flatland railway station in Taiwan. It has now been converted into a creative market and restaurant area, where you can take a break and sample local snacks.

Tunnel Experience

The Old Mountain Line features several tunnels. Riding through century-old tunnels is a truly unique experience—remember to bring a flashlight or choose a version with lights on the bike.

Differences from Regular Cycling Routes

The Old Mountain Line rail bike is completely different from regular road cycling:

1. Special Vehicle Type: A 4-seater rail bike (pedaled by four people together), not your own bicycle
2. Fixed Time Slots: Advance reservation required, with scheduled departures
3. Fixed Route: Follows the abandoned railway; you cannot deviate from the route
4. Extremely Low Difficulty: Suitable for the whole family, from seniors to children
5. Focus on Experience: Historical culture matters more than physical challenge

Reservation Information

• Official Ticketing: Miaoli Tourism Railway official website or phone reservation
• Peak Season: Weekends and holidays often sell out instantly; reserve 1-2 months in advance
• Group Size: Four people per bike; solo riders can join (paired with others)

Extended Cycling

After completing the rail bike tour, you can ride your own road bike to explore Miaoli’s mountain towns:

Sanyi to Tongluo Route (approx. 25K):

• Sanyi Wood Sculpture Museum
• Longteng Broken Bridge (view on foot)
• Tongluo Hakka Cultural Park

Miaoli City Route (approx. 20K):

• Flat coastline
• Houlong Fishing Harbor seafood

Nearby Food Recommendations

• Sanyi Wood Sculpture Street: A cluster of Hakka snack stalls
• Shengxing Station Restaurant: The unique experience of dining on the platform
• Miaoli Hakka Tangyuan: Authentic Hakka cuisine
• Dahu Strawberries: Seasonal strawberry-picking experience (December-March)

Accommodation and Transportation

Transportation:
About 1.5 hours by car from Taipei, exiting the freeway at the Sanyi Interchange.
By TRA, take the train to Miaoli Station, then transfer by taxi or rental car.

Accommodation Recommendations:
Hotels in Miaoli City or distinctive B&Bs in Sanyi; book early on holidays.

Related Reading

• Miaoli Sanyi Longteng Broken Bridge Route: Central Hills Cycling Route and Landscape Viewing Guide
• New Taipei Shen’ao Rail Bike Trail: A Unique Riding Experience on a Converted Abandoned Railway
• Taitung Rail Bike: Easy Riding and Food Stops on a Sightseeing Route
• Taichung Dongfeng and Houfeng Bike Paths: A Family-Friendly Green Corridor Converted from the Old Mountain Line