Pingxi Railway
The Pingxi railway line is a rail network operated by TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) which runs through popular old towns in the outskirts of Taipei city. This is one of the more idyllic routes for tourists in the city looking for a vastly different experience.
Passing through places like Shifen and Jingtong stations, the railway line plays hosts to a bustling of activities and commerce. The old town architecture provides a glimpse of Taiwan's culture and history and that has attracted scores of tourists over the years to visit.
The charm of Pingxi
Home to the annual Sky Lantern Festival, the Pingxi District is an old town in eastern New Taipei City in northern Taiwan. The source of the Keelung River is in Jingtong, which is inside Pingxi District. It was an important coal mining town in the early 20th century. The railway line that passes through Pingxi used to be operated by the coal mining company for transportation of cargo and subsequently closed.
Getting tickets and getting there
You may purchase a day pass* for the Pingxi line at the TRA website. Each pass costs about TWD80 and discounted fares are also available. (*updated day pass link to my new post on the Pingxi Line One Day Pass, as well as how to purchase train tickets and the 5 Day Joint THSR and TRA pass for tourists)
From Taipei Main Station, take a northbound train towards Ruifang Station (please make sure that the trains are not bound for Keelung station). Transfer from Ruifang Station to Pingxi.
On a related article post: Pingxi Line One Day Pass, I've further elaborated on how to purchase train tickets to get there.