Famed Taiwanese Attraction in Decline! 'Overgrown Weeds, Peeling Exhibits' — Visitors Lament: 'It Was So Popular 10 Years Ago'

Hesing Station, located in Hengshan Township, Hsinchu County, part of the Taiwan Railways Administration's Neiwan branch line, was once celebrated as the 'Love Station' due to its romantic landscape and touching historical narrative. It was a must-visit destination for families and couples touring Neiwan. However, recent visitors have discovered the site in a state of severe neglect.

A netizen posted photos on the social media platform Threads, expressing shock at the sight: weeds had grown as high as an adult's waist, and the exterior paint of the displayed train carriage had大面积 peeled off. The user exclaimed, 'What happened to Hesing Station?' The post quickly drew widespread attention from locals and past tourists.

Why has Hesing Station fallen into such disrepair? The primary reason lies in licensing issues and the termination of administrative contracts.

In 2019, Hsinchu County Government signed a lease agreement with the Taiwan Railways Administration to rent the surrounding park area of Hesing Station, entrusting its operation to the Jiuzantou Cultural Association. The original plan was to develop it into a tourism service center for Hsinchu County. However, the project later faced correction by the Control Yuan, which pointed out that the buildings within the station had not legally obtained occupancy permits. Upon learning of the correction, the Taiwan Railways Administration immediately took emergency action, terminating the lease agreement with the county government and halting all subsequent revitalization plans. This left the park without management, resulting in its current abandoned state.

Following news of the station's deterioration, numerous former visitors and locals have commented online, expressing deep regret over the decline of a place filled with memories.

Many users wrote, 'It was a popular spot over ten years ago,' 'I brought my kids here when they were young — it was a wonderful place, and we took so many photos. It's such a pity.' Some added humor, saying, 'The expiration date of love has passed — it's become a grave,' or 'In a few months, we'll be able to shoot urban exploration videos here.' These comments reflect widespread nostalgia and sorrow for the lost glory of this once-beloved landmark.