Shuili Township preserves two sites of great local industrial significance: Checheng was the railway hub terminus for the former sugar and timber industries, and its wooden station retains its Japanese colonial-era architectural style to this day; Shuili Snake Kiln is one of the still-operating wood-fired snake kilns remaining in Taiwan, continuing the craft of pottery firing using traditional wood-firing techniques. The two sites have distinct characters, yet both document the industrial transformation of Shuili Township.
Highlights of Checheng Historic Station & Shuili Snake Kiln
Checheng Station is the final stop on the Jiji Branch Line railway; historically its main function was transporting sugar cane raw materials and timber, and during the Japanese colonial period it housed a sugar factory and sawmill. The wooden station building is fully preserved today, with a clear wooden platform structure, and next to the station is a timber industry exhibition hall introducing the history of Checheng's lumber trade. The surrounding village has the Checheng Reservoir as a scenic feature, as well as a shopping street converted from wooden buildings, creating a relaxed overall atmosphere. Shuili Snake Kiln is about 5 to 10 minutes by car from Checheng; its history dates back to 1927. The kiln body winds up the hillside like a snake, hence the name, and the wood-fire heating method preserves traditional techniques.
In addition to displaying the snake kiln structure, Shuili Snake Kiln also offers pottery experience courses — visitors can hand-throw clay on a potter's wheel or paint ceramics. The kiln-firing cycle still takes place regularly; if your timing aligns, you may be able to watch a live firing in progress. The park sells finished kiln-fired ceramics, including everyday vessels and art pieces. The quality of each piece varies due to the natural ash glaze effects of wood firing — quite different from the uniformity of mass-produced electric kiln work. Combining both sites, you can comfortably plan a half-day to full-day visit.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time Required
- You can take the Jiji Branch Line from Jiji Station to Checheng terminus in about 15 minutes. By car from Shuili town center to Checheng takes about 10 minutes; the drive between the Snake Kiln and Checheng is about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Combining both sites, allow 3 to 4 hours; add more time if you include a pottery experience session.
Nearby Connections
- Jiji Train Station (Jiji Township) is along the Jiji Branch Line — you can arrange a day trip by train that connects Jiji town and Checheng on a single railway route.
- Heading north along Provincial Highway 21 leads to Sun Moon Lake, which can be incorporated into a mid-Nantou itinerary.
Sources: Shuili Snake Kiln official website, Checheng Timber Industry Exhibition Hall interpretive materials. Photos pending replacement with Dio's original shots.