From daytime ocean panoramas to summer’s magical Starlight Tunnel – here’s everything you need to know about this scenic adventure on Taiwan’s northeast coast.
Looking for a unique way to explore Taiwan’s northeast coast? Located near Keelung City, just 1 hour from Taipei, the Shen’ao Rail Bike is the only rail biking experience in Taiwan where you can enjoy both ocean and mountain views on the same ride.
Pedal along the coastline, spot colorful murals, and — if you visit in summer — ride through the dazzling “Starlight Tunnel” at night. Whether you start at Badouzi Station or Shen’ao Station, you’ll enjoy a scenic, beginner-friendly ride perfect for families, couples, and casual travelers.
At a Glance
Quick facts to help you plan your trip:
- Distance: 1.3 km between two stations
- Ride time: 20–30 minutes (one way)
- Difficulty: Easy, light pedaling — no special fitness needed
- Best for: Families, couples, casual travelers
- Peak season: July–August (night rides available)
- Booking: Reserve online to guarantee a spot — walk-in tickets often sell out
Note: Special summer night rides with the magical Starlight Tunnel are available July 1 – August 31 only.
Why Ride the Shen’ao Rail Bike?
- Two-way scenic route – 1.3 km, connecting Badouzi Station and Shen’ao Station. Choose a one-way or round trip.
- Beginner-friendly – Smooth ride with light pedaling (no electric assist).
- Local charm – Meet adorable mascots like Tofu-kun and Elephant Trunk-kun, adorable characters inspired by nearby spots like Tofu Rock (豆腐岩) and Elephant Trunk Rock (象鼻岩).
- Summer night magic – From July 1 to August 31, enjoy the pink-and-purple Starlight Tunnel, a dreamy nighttime experience.
🌙 Summer Special: Starlight Tunnel (July 1 – August 31)
In summer evenings, the route transforms into a glowing wonderland. While you won’t see ocean views at night, the cooler air and romantic lighting make it especially popular with couples.
🎁 Bonus Gift (Weekdays Only)
Get a free “Whale Brick” ocean-themed mini block set if you:
- Ride a night session (Mon – Fri)
- Take a photo with the neon “Love Hands” sign
- Follow @railbiketw on Instagram and tag them in your story
How the Ride Works
- Seats: Each rail bike holds 2 passengers. Solo riders may be paired with others).
- Age/Height: 3+ years or 90 cm+ tall. Kids under 12 must ride with an adult.
- Effort level: Easy — just gentle pedaling.
- Ride options: One-way or round trip.
- Weather: Operates in all weather except typhoons and heavy rain. Bring a light raincoat if needed.
Ticketing & Timetable
Pricing (as of 2025)
- One-way: NT$150 per person
- Round-trip: NT$250 per person (cheaper than buying two one-way tickets)
How to Book
Online (Highly Recommended) – Reserve up to 30 days in advance
- Official Website – Book here (membership required before purchase)
- KKday – Book on KKday (Affiliate link: You won’t pay extra, but I may earn a small commission. Thanks for supporting my work!)
On-site
- You can ask for same-day tickets at either station, but availability is not guaranteed — especially during weekends and holidays.
Pro Tip
- July – August is peak season. Book online early to secure your preferred date and time.
- Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your reserved departure time. Late arrivals may lose their seats, as tickets might be released to walk-in visitors.
Timetable
Day Ride
Night Ride
Recommended Sessions
- Day ride: Start at Shen’ao in the morning for the best ocean light.
- Night ride (July 1 – August 31): 18:30 or 19:00 slots capture both sunset and tunnel lights.
Shen’ao Rail Bike: Should You Start at Badouzi or Shen’ao Station?
You can begin your journey from either station. Choose based on transportation convenience and scenery preferences.
Option 1 – Start at Badouzi Station
- Pros: Easiest access by train, more nearby attractions.
- Cons: Slight uphill ride.
- Best for: Public transport users.
Option 2 – Start at Shen’ao Station
- Pros: Downhill ride with ocean views.
- Cons: Less convenient by public transport
- Best for: Self-drivers.
Pro Tip: Both Shen’ao and Badouzi stations have nearby YouBike rental points. After your rail bike ride, you can hop on a YouBike to extend your trip! (Rental location in Practical Info)
Day Ride vs Night Ride
Ride Time | Features | Best Starting Point | Ideal For |
☀️ Day Ride | Mountain & ocean views, colorful mural houses | Shen’ao Station (downhill) | Scenic photo lovers, ocean fans |
🌙 Night Ride (Jul 1 – Aug 31) | Starlight tunnel, romantic lighting, cooler temperatures | Badouzi Station (uphill) | Couples, romantic summer evenings |
Pro tips:
- For epic coastal views, start at Shen’ao Station and ride downhill.
- For mascots & murals, start at Badouzi Station.
- Badouzi Station
- The closest train station to the sea in Taiwan, with an elevated platform overlooking the Pacific.
- Has more tourist attractions.
- If you start from Shen’ao Station and ride to Badouzi Station, you can stay longer and explore nearby places by YouBike.
My Experience Riding the Shen’ao Rail Bike
Day Ride
Let’s GO!
Night Ride
How to Get to Shen’ao Rail Bike
🚆 By Train
📍 To Badouzi Station (Recommended)
- Directions: From Taipei Main Station, take a train to Ruifang Station, then transfer to the Shen’ao Line to Badouzi Station
- Walking time: 1 minute to Badouzi Railbike Station
- Info: Taiwan Railways Timetable & Online Booking
📍To Shen’ao Station
- ❌ No train access. Only accessible by bus or car.
🚌 By Bus
📍 To Badouzi Station
From Taipei: 🚌 Bus 1579
- Departure: Zhongxiao Dunhua Station (Exit 4)
- Get off at: TRA Badouzi Station
- Walking time: 4–5 minutes to Badouzi Railbike Station
- Info: View 1579 Timetable
From Keelung Train Station
🚌 Option 1: Bus 791 ⭐ Recommended
- Departure: Keelung Transit Station (near Keelung Train Station)
- Get off at: Badouzi Train Station
- Walking time: 1 minute to Badouzi Railbike Station
- Info: View 791 Timetable & Real-time Info
🚌 Option 2: Taiwan Tourist Shuttle T99
- Departure: Keelung Transit Station (near Keelung Train Station)
- Get off at: Badouzi Bus Stop
- Walking time: 7 minutes (450m) to Badouzi Railbike Station
- Info: View T99 Timetable
📍To Shen’ao Station
From Keelung Train Station: 🚌 Bus 791
- Departure: Keelung Transit Station (near Keelung Train Station)
- Get off at: Jianji Coal Mine Stop (建基煤礦站)
- Walking Time: 1 minute to Shen’ao Railbike Station
- Info: View 791 Timetable & Real-time Info
From Ruifang Train Station: 🚌 Bus 177
- Departure: Ruifang Train Station
- Get off at: Jianji Coal Mine Stop (建基煤礦站)
- Walking Time: 1 minute to Shen’ao Railbike Station
- Info: View 177 Timetable & Real-time Info
🚗 By Car
📍 Badouzi Station
- Address: No. 121, Sec. 2, Jianji Rd, Ruifang Dist., New Taipei City (Google Maps)
- Landmark: Next to Badouzi Train Station
- Parking: Larger parking area including paid parking options.
📍 Shen’ao Station
- Address: No. 1-1, Sec. 2, Jianji Rd, Ruifang Dist., New Taipei City (Google Maps)
- Landmark: Next to Shen’ao Power Plant
- Parking: Smaller parking lot with limited spaces, often full on weekends and holidays.
Practical Info
Weather
YouBike Rentals
Both Shen’ao and Badouzi stations have YouBike rental points within a short walk:
- Shen’ao Station: YouBike dock near the entrance of Shen’ao Fishing Port. (Google Maps)
- Badouzi Station: YouBike dock right across from the train station. (Google Maps)
Luggage Storage
- Both Shen’ao Station and Badouzi Station offer luggage storage.
Contact
- Website: https://railbike.tw
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +886-2-2406-2200 (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Nearby Attractions
Looking to explore more after your Shen’ao Rail Bike ride?
With YouBike rental points at both Shen’ao and Badouzi stations, you can turn your visit into a coastal cycling adventure! Ride past fishing port, seaside parks, and unique rock formations — all within 10 – 20 minutes by bike.
Here are some nearby attractions worth visiting:
- Shen’ao Fishing Port
A peaceful fishing harbor famous for its fresh seafood and laid-back coastal atmosphere. Perfect for enjoying local catches and a relaxing stroll by the water. - Elephant Trunk Rock
This iconic natural sea arch shaped like an elephant’s trunk is a top photo spot on Taiwan’s northeast coast, just a short distance from Shen’ao Fishing Port. - Fanziao Park & Qiuzhangyan
Famous for the striking “Chief Rock,” which resembles the profile of a Native American chief. Discover diverse rock formations and panoramic sea-and-sky views. Popular among diving enthusiasts visiting Keelung. - Chaojing Park
Featuring a beautifully crafted wooden boardwalk and unique art installations with stunning seaside views. Enjoy walking trails, bike paths, and a spacious grassy lawn. At sunset, watch Jiufen’s twinkling lights and fishing boats illuminate the bay. - Badouzi Seaside Park
A large seaside park with lush lawns, scenic walking paths, and spectacular Pacific Ocean views — ideal for picnics and relaxation. - Daping Shore
A tranquil coastal stretch with dramatic rock formations and tide pools. Popular for exploring marine ecosystems and enjoying peaceful seaside walks. - Heping Island Park
A coastal park with unique geological rock formations, swimming areas, and scenic walking trails offering panoramic ocean views. - Bisha Fishing Harbor
A vibrant seafood market in Keelung where visitors can select fresh seafood and have it cooked on-site, offering an authentic local dining experience.
📌 Note: More original photos and insider tips coming soon — stay tuned!
Plan your day trip around Shen’ao Rail Bike and discover these scenic coastal gems for the ultimate Taiwan northeast coast experience.
