Taiwan Railway Corporation (TRC) is partnering with department store chain Shin Kong Mitsukoshi to transform Taipei Main Station’s commercial space under a public-private redevelopment agreement. The retailer says it plans to invest NT$1 billion (US$31 million) over the next two years and eight months.

The renovation is scheduled to take place in phases and sections, while maintaining about 70% of the mall’s operations, representatives for Shin Kong Mitsukoshi say.

The department store chain says the renovation concept is centered around creating a “window to the world” which showcases Taiwan’s art, culture, food, and creativity, while introducing travelers to international culture and trends.

More than 600,000 passengers transit Taipei Main Station each day, explains TRC Chair James Jeng (鄭光遠), making it one of Taiwan’s busiest transportation hubs.

Jeng says TRC hopes to revitalize the station’s image, improve dining and shopping, promote international tourism, make the station more international-friendly, provide public-interest spaces, improve safety, and introduce AI and smart technology.

TRC adds that the project is part of its efforts to make better use of its assets and improve services following the state-owned railway operator’s corporatization in 2024.