News

    Jiji Station in Jiji Town was successfully leased out through tendering in April this year, and the winning bidder completely renovated the station by applying artistic innovation. The interior arrangement mimics the former glory of the Jiji Line. Furthermore, the name “Old Station Master” is adopted for the station, which opened its doors to the public on October 7. County Magistrate Ming-chen Lin visited the station on the 4th, commending the retro arrangements such as the in-station railroad and replica of the Teng-Yung train (built in year 13 of the Guangxu Period). It is hoped that the brand new “Old Station Master” will generate flourishing developments in the Jiji shopping district and attract tourists once again.

    The County Government is actively revitalizing unused municipal properties to increase revenue. According to County Magistrate Lin, due to poor management in the past, the County Government conducted 4 open tenders before Jiji Station was successfully leased out in April for a period of 5 years. In addition to increasing revenue, the project also serves to generate economic development around Jiji Station and expand the overall business benefits. Furthermore, the novel design of the renovated station is extremely appealing, while the “Old Station Master” not only offers a space for visitors to rest, the woodcraft DIY exhibition and retro interior décor allow tourists to take photos, therefore everyone is welcome.

    According to the manager of the Old Station Master Li-shuang Hsiao, the station renovation took 3 months to complete, and the railroad museum-inspired design concept presents surprises in every corner! On the first floor, there is Harry Potter’s Platform 9 3/4, a replica of the Teng-Yung train and a mini post office. The second floor features a section of Taiwan Railway’s tracks, which is complemented by the Dawn Tunnel installation to mimic the Jiji Line railroad. In addition, Taiwan Railways wooden barrel lunchbox and flavorsome tree tomato beverage are also available, allowing visitors to enjoy a light repast and appreciate the railroad ambiance that is certain to endow them with a brand new experience.

    The new Jiji Station features an elevated façade and parking lot, and it is named “Old Station Master” to highlight the cultural characteristics of Jiji railroad. The interior furnishings and store decors depict the retro style of the 1960s that exude an archaic demeanor. The life-size replica of Teng-Yung train from Year 13 of the Guangxu Period and Harry Potter’s Platform 9 3/4 are popular attractions for tourists to take photographs. Local agricultural products are also on sale here.