Alishan Vivid Express

Bringing light into the forest

Xuyuè is a newly upgraded ecological sightseeing train on the Alishan Forest Railway, officially launched in May 2024. The interior lighting design is guided by the concept of a "forest guide," transforming the rhythm of natural light and shadow into a spatial language that conveys warmth, tranquility, and a sensory connection to nature.

The design draws inspiration from the gentle scene of morning light filtering through mist into the forest, emphasizing continuity and restraint in lighting. The system primarily uses concealed linear warm-light sources, horizontally extending beneath ceiling edges and luggage racks to softly wash the arched ceiling above. Lighting is thoughtfully adjusted to meet the needs of different seating types: the panoramic seats are bright and clear to enhance interaction with the view, while private booths feature indirect lighting to foster calmness and intimacy.

Each large viewing window is paired with hidden lighting, reinforcing the rhythm of the train’s structural cadence without disrupting views of the landscape. Whether in daylight, on a rainy day, or at night, the lighting maintains a stable and comfortable ambiance. Here, light does more than illuminate the journey—it awakens the senses and accompanies passengers in perceiving the shifting layers of Alishan.

All lighting fixtures are fully integrated within the train’s architecture, with no exposed hardware, enhancing the design’s sense of simplicity and immersion. Through the rhythm of light, warm tonal consistency, and structural integration, a serene and contemplative moving space is created.