Extension of the Sugar Train Service to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum
TSC Railway carries a hundred years of Taiwan's sugar industry development history and holds cherished sweet childhood memories for many people. In 2022, TSC implemented the Sugar Train Extension Project to HSR Chiayi Station in alignment with government policies. This marked the first sugar train in Taiwan to connect with a key domestic transportation facility. Furthermore, in 2023, the Suantou Sugar Factory Sugar Train extended its route further to the Southern Branch of National Palace Museum.
The extension project will pass through Rural Highway Jia 57 and Jia 58, with the Sugar Train route entering the northern courtyard of the Southern Branch of NPM and reaching the scenic bridge. Not only is this the only railway directly entering a nationally significant cultural heritage institution in Taiwan, but passengers can also enjoy the scenery of the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum from the train windows. The newly extended route is approximately 1.2 km long, and a Sugar Train station platform will be set up at the northern parking lot of the Southern Branch of NPM. This railway offers a unique and unparalleled tourist experience.
The extension project to the Southern Branch of NPM was completed on August 31st, 2023, and officially commenced operations on October 7th, 2023. Additionally, TSC has recreated the "vintage blue cars" reminiscent of the early agricultural era in Taiwan. Originally constructed with wooden exteriors during the Japanese colonial period, these cars were later refurbished by TSC with blue-painted metal exteriors. The refurbished cars are designed with three main principles: "vintage, safety, and comfort," demonstrating TSC's commitment to preserving and improving the cultural significance of the Sugar Train.
Separated by half a century, this train will lead elder passengers to relive their childhood commuting memories, while younger individuals can personally experience the nostalgia of bygone times, offering all passengers an unparalleled riding experience.
Since the opening of the Sugar Train's Southern Branch Line to NPM, TSC has continued to collaborate with the museum to promote special offers, attracting tourism traffic. Through this cross-industry alliance, we hope to integrate transportation hubs with tourism, leisure, cultural education, and connect the tourism industry in Chiayi.