Pingxi Branch Line

The Pingxi Branch Line is Taiwan's most nostalgic railway journey, operating on a single track that winds 12.9 kilometers through former coal-mining towns of Ruifang, Shifen, and Jingtong. Originally built in 1919, this historic line once carried 1.5 million tons of coal annually, but now transports over 2 million tourists each year seeking sky lanterns and the 20-meter Shifen Waterfall. The 30-minute ride is the shortest complete route on this list, yet it delivers the highest density of attractions per kilometer, with 4 major stops. A single ticket costs only NT$50, which is 40% cheaper than the #3 South-Link Line and 70% cheaper than the average global heritage railway ticket.