THE ALISHAN FOREST RAILWAY Located in the centre of Taiwan is the legendary Alishan Forest Railway that is extremely popular with both railway enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The starting point of the fascinating journey into the rainforests and mountain world of Taiwan is Chiayi. When visiting Chiayi it is a must to visit the authentic marketplace in which there is just about everything. The markets have retained their original charm and whether simple or exotic the food is simply delicious. The Alishan Express has travelled between Chiayi and the mountain station of Chushan, since 1986. The route becomes steeper and steeper as the narrow gauge train travels tentatively into the higher regions and also into changing weather. Luxury is the last thing that can be expected on the Alishan Express as the carriages are extremely basic. The town of Alishan was named after the mountains of the same name and in recent years it has developed into one of the most popular tourist destinations in Taiwan. The Giant Trees Trail has become popular with walkers. It leads through an unusual forest that is full of thousands of years old trees, the "Trees Of Three Generations", ancient trees that have developed in a fascinating way. The first sunbeams mark the next day in the mountains when the legendary Alishan Forest Railway will bring with it new visitors who will experience the unique and wonderful mountain world of Alishan.