The Alishan Forest Railway (AFR) of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency continues to strengthen ties between Taiwanese and Japanese railways. In collaboration with its sister railways in Japan, the Kurobe Gorge Railway and the Oigawa Railway, AFR has launched a limited-time ticket exchange program. Beginning in April 2026, Taiwanese travelers who present a used “AFR Branch Line 2-Day Pass (covering Zhushan, Shenmu, and Zhaoping lines)” together with their passport may redeem designated train tickets in accordance with each program’s terms and conditions, and embark on a mountain railway journey connecting Alishan in Taiwan with Japan.Continuing the Classic: A Pilgrimage to the Spectacular "Unazuki Canyon Route" of Kurobe Gorge The Kurobe Gorge Railway is renowned for its deep V-shaped gorges and magnificent autumn maple scenery, making it a must-visit destination for railway enthusiasts. Since establishing sister railway ties in 2013, the two railways have maintained close cooperation. This year’s ticket exchange program will run from April 20 to November 30, 2026. During this period, Taiwanese travelers may present a used “AFR Branch Line 2-Day Pass” together with their passport to redeem a complimentary “Unazuki–Nekomata Station Round-Trip Ticket” through the Kurobe Gorge Railway, allowing them to enjoy the spectacular scenery along the gorge railway line.40th Anniversary Special Gift: Walking into the Showa Scenery of Oigawa Railway The Oigawa Railway is known for its nostalgic Showa-era (mid-20th century) atmosphere and tourist attractions such as the Shizuoka tea plantations and Kawane Onsen. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the sister railway partnership between AFR and Oigawa Railway, established in 1986. Recently, AFR launched the “Alishan Express × Ikawa Line” themed train and a series of co-branded products, and resumed the ticket exchange program. From April 25 to December 31, 2026, Taiwanese travelers may present a used “AFR Branch Line 2-Day Pass” together with their passport to redeem an “Oigawa Main Line 1-Day Pass,” allowing them to experience the railway’s unique nostalgic charm firsthand.Taiwan-Japan Sister Railway Partnership, Creating New Highlights for Cross-border Tourism AFR Director Wang Jau-Pao noted that the Alishan Forest Railway has long enjoyed a close friendship with Japanese railways. In addition to further strengthening international exchange and cooperation, he hopes to turn this cross-border friendship into meaningful benefits for travelers through bilateral ticket exchange programs. The initiative not only allows visitors to experience the beauty of the Alishan Forest Railway, but also encourages them to connect with Japanese railways and appreciate the enduring friendship fostered through Taiwan–Japan railway cultural exchange.[Summary of Reciprocal Activity Information]Target Audience: Taiwanese travelers holding a Taiwan passport.Redemption Voucher: A used “AFR Branch Line 2-Day Pass” together with the traveler’s passport.Redemption Period and Ticket Types:Kurobe Gorge Railway: 2026/04/20 - 2026/11/30, redeem round-trip ticket for "Unazuki - Current Operational End Point."Oigawa Railway: 2026/04/25 - 2026/12/31, redeem "Oigawa Main Line 1-Day Pass."Note: For detailed ticket redemption methods and related usage regulations, please visit the official AFR website.
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