TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan Railways Administration (台鐵), Taiwan's state-owned railway operator, will hold a press conference Dec. 18 to reveal exhibition details for a golden train head gifted by Japan's Tobu Railway (東武鐵道). The iconic "Nikko Moude SPACIA" (日光詣SPACIA) train head arrived by truck at Taipei Main Station's east side late Monday (Dec. 1), drawing rail enthusiasts' attention. Taiwan Railways will display the train head for one year as part of a decade-long friendship agreement between the two railway operators.
Taiwan Railways has not released further exhibition information due to confidentiality agreements with Tobu Railway, but promised a coordinated announcement after mutual discussions. The administration will provide details about the display location, viewing hours and special events during the Dec. 18 press conference. The one-year exhibition commemorates the 10-year partnership between Taiwan Railways and Tobu Railway.
The train head, part of Tobu Railway's 101F series, left Taipei Port at 12:50 a.m. Monday and reached Taipei Main Station by 1:30 a.m. Workers lifted it onto a temporary stand, completing the majority of assembly by 3:30 a.m. The transport process attracted devoted rail enthusiasts who witnessed the installation. Tobu Railway gifted the train head to commemorate the 10-year partnership between the two railway operators.
The train, known for its luxurious compartment style and non-traditional seating, features a golden livery. Tobu Railway celebrated the SPACIA series' 30th anniversary in 2021 by restoring several trains to classic designs. The 101F series was a fan favorite for its nostalgic look. The retired 101-1 train head has been reborn with its golden appearance in Taiwan for the one-year exhibition.