Did You Know: Malaysia Has Its Own Version Of The Floating Train From 'Spirited Away'
So dreamy.
By Celine Low — 02 Apr 2025, 05:20 PM
Malaysia offers an ethereal "floating train" experience reminiscent of Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away, with a scenic railway journey across Tasik Bukit Merah in Perak
Located just a three-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur and easily accessible via the North-South Expressway, Tasik Bukit Merah is one of Malaysia's largest freshwater lakes.
But the real magic happens when you board the train, which runs along the KTM Komuter Northern Sector or KTM ETS lines.
Tasik Bukit Merah, built in 1906 during the British colonial period, is Malaysia's first man-made lake and is the only freshwater lake in the country with a railway. The 3.5km railway line is also the longest cross-lake railway in Malaysia.
With water stretching on both sides, the train appears to float, creating a breathtaking illusion
The view becomes even dreamier when you catch the sunrise or sunset reflecting on the water's surface.
To ensure passengers fully enjoy the view, onboard announcements often prompt them to look out the window as the train approaches the lake.
Here's a breakdown of the trains that pass by the lake:
- KTM Komuter Northern Sector Line: This line provides frequent local services with 10 departures to Ipoh and Butterworth, and 10 arrivals from Ipoh and Butterworth.
- KTM ETS Line: There are two departures to Gemas from both Butterworth and Padang Besar, and two departures from Gemas to both Butterworth and Padang Besar daily.
