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Taiwan's 'forest bus' charms passengers

News Desk (Agence France-Presse)
Taipei
Sun, May 28, 2017

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Taiwan's 'forest bus' charms passengers A passenger takes photos among live vegetation inside the "forest bus" in Taipei on May 26, 2017. (AFP/Sam Yeh)

W

ith moss-covered seats and an explosion of lush plants and flowers throughout its interior the "forest bus" offers a fragrant leafy ride for passengers used to crammed public transport in Taiwan's capital. 

The ordinary single-deck city bus has been converted into a travelling green house decorated with orchids, ginger lilies and a variety of ferns is running on a special route through Taipei, with stops including an art museum, a popular temple and a night market. 

Florist Alfie Lin, who created the temporary installation, said he wanted to bring a touch of nature to commuters' busy routines.

"I hope the public will feel that it's a beautiful and interesting experience," he told AFP.

"They can smell the scent of summer on the bus and see the vibrant green plants to feel messages from nature."

Read also: Transjakarta opens new city tour route to Kalijodo

Journalists take photos of the "forest bus" in Taipei on May 26, 2017. With moss-covered seats and an explosion of lush plants and flowers throughout its interior the "forest bus" offers a fragrant leafy ride for passengers used to crammed public transport in Taiwan's capital.(AFP/Sam Yeh)

Reactions have been enthusiastic, with passengers queueing to board and expressing hopes that it will become a permanent attraction in Taipei.

For now the toll-free bus is running on a week-long trial, ending Sunday, and takes around 20 passengers.

"I feel happy and relaxed on the bus smelling the flowers and plants. I hope it can become a regular service on a double-decker. It would become something special to Taipei," said housewife Celine Wei.

Museum employee Larry Huang is also a big fan of the bus and has been on it three days in a row.

"There is no rushing on and off like a regular bus. We chat and take photos for each other. I feel like I'm at a party with friends," he said.

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