Breezy Blue Train: A Journey Back in Time

Having train enthusiasts in the family means that every trip back to Taiwan involves numerous train rides. This time, we traveled on the Puyuma, the standard EMU 3000, the Teng Yun cabin, and Mr. K's long-awaited Breezy Blue Train.

Speaking of the Breezy Blue Train, this isn't just any ordinary train—it's a fascinating journey through time. As you step aboard this train filled with 1950s charm, you're surrounded by retro elements: the blue exterior, ceiling-mounted rotating fans, green seats, and manually operated doors and windows.

From Fangliao to Taitung, the Breezy Blue Train not only takes you through beautiful mountainous and coastal scenery but also offers the unique pleasure of "window breeze." This is the only sightseeing train in Taiwan where you can open the windows, letting the sea breeze blow away all your worries.

The Breezy Blue Train has a storied history. Originally a Taiwan Railways Express Train from the 1950s, it played a crucial role in regional commuting. Back then, trains were powered by diesel locomotives, with no air conditioning, relying on ceiling fans and open windows to cool down. Despite the summer heat, the breeze through the windows provided a refreshing experience once the train started moving.

With progress over the years, express trains gradually retired from the main routes, leaving only the South-Link Line. In late 2020, after the electrification of the South-Link Line, the blue express trains officially retired. Taiwan Railways then launched a "revival project," inviting experts to recreate the classic train using modern technology. On October 23, 2021, the blue express train was reborn as the Breezy Blue Train. The poetic name was inspired by renowned travel writer Liu Ke-hsiang: open the windows, admire nature, and feel the sea breeze—letting all your worries disappear.

Riding the Breezy Blue Train is more than just a journey from Fangliao to Taitung. In just a two-hour trip, you experience the rich local culture and scenery. With two regular trains running daily, you have more options. The train features a guided tour introducing the South-Link Line's scenery and local culture. Want to capture memories? The guide will take you to specific stops for the best photo opportunities. Our guide, Xiao Zhang, made the tour engaging and informative, offering insights into the Breezy Blue Train and suggesting perfect photo spots, even helping us take pictures.

In addition to the one-way fare, you receive:

• A boarding pass: your entry ticket (to be returned at the end of the trip)

• A commemorative ticket

• Guided tour headphones: listen to the explanations throughout the journey (to be returned at the end; a fee of NTD$2000 will be charged if lost)

• A tour guide: for photo stops and scenic highlights

• A commemorative fan: different designs for each trip

• A snack: locally grown fruit

• A railway bento box: the best of the three Taiwan Railways pork chop bento boxes I've tried this time!

One of the train cars sells various souvenirs and drinks, including a unique Blue Train-exclusive winter melon tea beer. The initial taste is malty, followed by a subtle winter melon tea flavor—quite a novel experience.

During the Breezy Blue Train trip, you'll see breathtaking sights like the Taimali Station, designed with golden needle flowers, a local specialty, combining yellow and blue for a stunning photo with the train. "Slam Dunk Railway Crossing" is also here! The train crosses a viaduct, offering views of the blue ocean. Taking photos from inside makes it feel like you're on a sea train, creating a beautiful image. The Breezy Blue Train slows down here, giving everyone time to capture the perfect shot.

As the train enters the first tunnel of the South-Link Line, the lights inside the Breezy Blue Train dim, leaving only emergency lights on, letting passengers experience a bit of the old nighttime train travel. The shadows created by the tunnel and emergency lighting make it feel like a time tunnel—a very cool experience.

Riding the Breezy Blue Train is not just a nostalgic journey but also a healing experience for the soul. If you have the chance, don't forget to bring your family and friends for a trip on the Breezy Blue Train. But remember to choose an autumn or winter journey to avoid the summer heat.