[Changhua] Changhua Railway Roundhouse | The only remaining fan-shaped garage in Taiwan, a recommended free attraction for railway enthusiasts and families in Changhua

The Changhua Railway Roundhouse is the only moving historical monument in Changhua County and the only remaining fan-shaped garage in Taiwan. Located near the Taiwan Railways Changhua Station, it is easily accessible by foot. Although the site is not large, it is a fun and educational destination for families on weekends. It is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and a free attraction in Changhua. Inside, you can see some of the only remaining steam locomotives in Taiwan, adding historical and cultural value to this fan-shaped garage.

Transportation and Opening Hours of Changhua Railway Roundhouse

The Changhua Railway Roundhouse is located at No. 1, Section 1, Zhangmei Road, Changhua City, near the Taiwan Railways Changhua Station. From the exit of Changhua Station, turn left onto Sanmin Road and cross the pedestrian underpass of Minsheng Underpass to reach the gargae. If you are driving, as the gargae does not provide parking, you can park at the private or public parking lots on Cixiu Road nearby and walk to the gargae. Also, note the opening hours: from 13:00 to 16:00 from Tuesday to Friday, and from 10:00 on weekends. The gargae is closed on Mondays.

Changhua Attraction | Changhua Railway Roundhouse

Address: No. 1, Section 1, Zhangmei Road, Changhua City
Opening Hours: 13:00-16:00 (Tuesday to Friday); 10:00-16:00 (holidays, including national holidays). Closed on Mondays.
Admission: Free
Website: Changhua Railway Roundhouse Information

Changhua Railway Roundhouse: A Century-old Historical Monument

The Changhua Railway Roundhouse was built in 1922. As we enter 2022, it officially becomes a century-old monument. The garage is still in service (located at the Taiwan Railways Changhua Locomotive garage), with 12 tracks radiating out from the turntable at the center, forming a fan shape, hence the name “Fan-shaped Garage”. It is the only remaining fan-shaped garage in Taiwan. However, in the 1990s, the gargae was almost demolished due to Taiwan Railways’ plan to build a maintenance base for electric multiple units in central Taiwan. Fortunately, it was preserved thanks to the efforts of local people and railway enthusiasts, providing us with a wonderful place for fun and education.

The Changhua Railway Roundhouse is a must-visit for railway enthusiasts. Not only does it display Taiwan Railways’ active locomotives, but it also houses steam locomotives. According to the staff, all the locomotives in the gargae are in use, making the gargaet a truly “moving monument”. To capture the vastness of the Changhua Fan-shaped Train Gargae, a wide-angle lens is a must. Despite the large area of the gargae, you can still find good shooting angles if you cleverly avoid the crowds.

When visiting the Changhua Railway Roundhouse, besides the main gargae, the turntable is also a major attraction. The rotation of the turntable allows the locomotives from the main track to be driven into the corresponding gargae track for maintenance, which is very convenient and magical.

Additionally, I think the windows on the outer wall of the gargae are a great spot for portrait photography. The afternoon slanting light, the gargae’s outer wall, and the window sill with historical traces all create a special feeling. Interested friends can also give it a try.

As the Changhua Railway Roundhouse is still in service, with high-voltage equipment and close proximity to the western mainline railway, drone photography is prohibited in the entire area. If you want to take photos, you can go up to the high platform in the gargae to overlook the vastness of the fan-shaped gargae. Lastly, don’t forget to visit the nearby attractions, such as the old dormitory group of Taiwan Railways in Changhua, for a journey through time!

『Original Source:https://www.phototravel.tw/changhua-railway-roundhouse/