Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Taiwanese style tour - Anping District, Tainan City: Namesake of Taiwan

 
Anping District, Tainan City: Namesake of Taiwan



Anping District, Tainan City: Namesake of TaiwanIn earlier times, Anping was known as "Dayuan," the origin of the name "Taiwan." It is known not only for its deep culture and history, but also for its sunsets, nightlife, beautiful natural scenery, ocean activities, and delicious cuisine.Anping abounds with historic sites—Anping Fort, the Eternal Golden Castle, and Anping Tree House are a few of its major attractions. Other points of interest include the Old Julius Mannich Merchant House, Haishan Hostel, Tait & Co. Merchant House and Anping Minor Artillery Fort. These historical sites reflect the history and architectural styles of the Dutch occupation, Cheng Cheng-kung (Koxinga) period, Qing administration, and Japanese colonial era, embodying more than 300 years of quintessential history in Taiwan.No visit to Anping is complete without trying the amazing array of delicious local foods—shrimp cakes, bean curd pudding, candied fruit, shrimp rolls, oyster rolls, fish ball soup, and oyster pancakes, for a start. The shops around Yanping Old Street are good places to find distinctive mementos and gifts—no one leaves Yanping empty-handed!


Part 1 Photos 【Anping Fort 】was the first fort built by the Dutch in Taiwan. At that time it was called Fort Zeelandia, as well as the Part 2 Photos 【 Old Julius Mannich Merchant House 】is a grade-three national historic site. It was built by the Germans as a trading post. During Anping's commercial heydays, this was one of five major foreign trading houses in the district, along with Tait & Co., BainPart 3 Photos Located by Anping Fort, 【 Yanping Street】 was built by the Dutch over three centuries ago and is known as the Part 4 Photos Winner of the 2009 FIABCI-Taiwan Real Estate Excellence Award and Yuan-Yie Award, this is a perfect spot for enjoying the sea views recreation. There is also a harbor loop route to enjoy a stroll at the old Anping Harbor.Part 5 Photos This recreational park combines natural scenic beauty, historical waterways, and harbor-side charm. In addition to the rich mangrove ecology, the area has bike paths and bird-watching platforms.Part 6 Photos 【Anping's famous sunsets】 light up the clouds each evening, bathing the dusk sky in a breathtaking tapestry of colors.Part 7 Photos 【A former Tait & Co. warehouse】 , Anping Tree House has long been engulfed by old banyan trees. Following a restoration, the site won the FIABCI-Taiwan Real Estate Excellence Award and Public Construction Golden Quality Award for outstanding environmentalPart 8 Photos Anping's bike paths provide eco, recreational, riverside, and heritage site routes. All 25 convenience store in the township provide free pumping services.Part 9 Photos 【Sword Lion Park 】is the first sword lion themed park in Taiwan. The sword lion wards off, repels bad fortune, and invites good luck. Anping was once called Part 10 Photos Anping is a seafood paradise with a unique geological landscape, traditional cuisine handed down across the generations, promising a rich experience, both cultural and culinary.





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AddressAnping District, Tainan City
Longitude/Latitude  (22.9934043,120.1647036)
Public1.THSR: From Tainan Station take the THSR Shuttle Bus (Tainan City Hall Route) to the Qingping Road/Ande Road stop.2.Taiwan Railway: Take the train to Tainan Station and then take the Tainan City Bus No. 2, 14, 88, or 99 to visitors sites in Anping District.






Taiwanese style tour - Dajia District, Taichung City: Matsu Culture

 


Dajia District, Taichung City: Matsu CultureDajia brings together a unique mix of natural assets—the Dajia River, Da'an River, and Tiezhen Mountain among them, with other attractions, such as the Craftsman's Hometown recreational farm area, Songbo Harbor, distinctive folk ceremonies, and a rich local history and culture. Zhenlan Temple, built on present-day Dajia Street by early Han Chinese settlers, hosts the Dajia Matsu pilgrimage activity each March. More than one million people join this annual event, ranking the festival among the top-three religious celebrations in the world. Living history can be experienced at the Chastity Arch, which recounts the story of the frail sister who saved the townspeople, and Wenchang Temple, built with funding by the local gentry to support education. Dajia is also famous for its specialty farm products, including award-winning premium rice, certified high-quality bitter gourd, Welsh onions, and square watermelon. Jian Well (Sword Well), built on Tiezhen Mountain during Koxinga's administration of Taiwan, the historic Rinan Railway Station and Da'an River Bridge, and locally-produced hats, mats, and pastries are other worthwhile attractions for local and foreign visitors alike, inviting you to discover the deep history and warm hospitality of Dajia.



Part 1 Photos 【Dajia Taro】 Dajia has long been a major center of taro farming in Taiwan. The local taros are famously delicious thanks to ideal growing conditions. Taro ice-pops (ice cream) and taro cookies are also local specialties.Part 2 Photos 【Rush Hats and Mats】 During the early Qing period, Dajia was a major producer of rush mats. Popular as gifts in officialdom, the mats were woven by local women from triangle rush. In the early Japanese occupation period, Dajia native Hung Yang began weavPart 3 Photos 【Matsu Pilgrimage】The southward pilgrimage of Part 4 Photos 【Dajia Baked Goods】 In earlier times, it was customary in Dajia for a groom to give pastries and meat pies to his bride-to-be. The women would offer these gifts to her ancestors and then give them to friends and relatives. This tradition has made Dajia fPart 5 Photos 【Wenchang Temple】Wenchang Temple has played a civilizing role in Dajia by lifting the level of culture and education in the area. The temple is today protected as a city-level historic site.Part 6 Photos 【Rinan Railway Station】The Rinan Railway Station is housed in a wooden structure with a distinctive asymmetrical roof that gives it the appearance of being cut in half. The station house is a city-level historic site.Part 7 Photos 【Craftsman's Hometown: Sunflowers】Craftsman's Hometown is a recreational farm area linked by bikeway to a seawall, wind farm, Songbo Fishing Harbor, plant nurseries, farms, and a wealth of coastal flora and fauna.Part 8 Photos 【Lin Chastity Memorial Archway】 This archway memorializes the virtue of an Part 9 Photos 【Zhenlan Temple】Matsu is the principle deity at Zhenlan Temple. The temple is architecturally steeped in folk art tradition and attracts throngs of visitors from throughout Taiwan and the world.Part 10 Photos 【Jian Well (Sword Well) on Tiezhen Mountain 】 According to legend, Cheng Cheng-kung (Koxinga) and his troops were surrounded by Pingpu aboriginals on Tiezhen Mountain during their northward march army north in 1662. In order to find drinking water, he pl





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Tel+886-4-2687-2101
AddressDajia District, Taichung City
Longitude/Latitude  (24.349083,120.622468)
TransportationFreeway No. 3 → Exit at the Dajia Interchange → County Road 132 → Shuntian Rd.
Public1.THSR: Take the train to Wuri Station in Taichung and then take the 93 Sea Loop route bus to Dajia Railway Station.

2.Taiwan Railway: Take the Coastal Line to Dajia Railway Station; or take the train to Taichung Railway Station and then take the Dajia-bound G-Bus to Dajia Station.

3.Bus: From Taichung Railway Station take the Dajia-bound G-Bus to Dajia Station; or from Fengyuan Railway Station take the Fengyuan Bus Dajia-bound shuttle to Dajia; or from Miaoli Railway Station take the Miaoli Bus Dajia-bound shuttle to Dajia.





Taiwanese style tour - Ruisui Township, Hualien County: Fragrant Tea, Dairy and Hot Springs

 
Ruisui Township, Hualien County: Fragrant Tea, Dairy and Hot Springs



Ruisui Township, Hualien County: Fragrant Tea, Dairy and Hot SpringsRuisui Township boasts a wide range of specialty products, cultural attractions, and some of eastern Taiwan's best tourism resources, with something sure to satisfy every visitor desire.Ruisui is also an ideal place to enjoy the leisurely pace of life on Taiwan's East Coast. In an area defined by a mere 135-km circumference, one can enjoy delicious dairy, coffee, tea, and other beverages, take a healthy hot spring excursion, savor a spectrum of specialty cuisine, experience small town life, or go on an exciting whitewater rafting adventure. Local and Hakka ceremonies and stirring percussion performances at the Drum King Competition further add to the township's unique tourism appeal. In addition to its cultural allures, Ruisui presents the beauty of nature in its full charm, setting the perfect stage for a leisurely escape to Taiwan's East Coast.


Part 1 Photos 【Fuyuan National Forest Recreation Area】<br /><br /><br/>With its diverse mountain and river ecology, Fuyuan is a haven for watching insects, butterflies, and fireflies. Longyin Waterfall and Suspension Bridge complement the beauty of the scenic mountains and rivers herPart 2 Photos 【Hegang Pomelo Tourist Orchard】</p><br /><br/><p>Hegang pomelo is rich in vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, pectin and cellulose. Make sure to visit during the harvest season to enjoy this delicious and juicy treatPart 3 Photos 【Saoba Stone Pillars】<br /><br /><br/>Located on the north slope of Wuhe Terrace, this stone formation dates back some three thousand years and is the only prehistoric megalith culture site in Taiwan.Part 4 Photos 【Ruisui Pasture】<br /><br /><br/>Located behind the Ruisui Rafting Center, this pasture covers an area of nearly 10 hectares and supports over a hundred Holstein dairy cows. The cows feed mainly on natural pasture grass, earning the dairy businesses here the Part 5 Photos 【Hot Spring Bathing】<br /><br /><br/>The East Rift Valley National Scenic Area offers ample opportunity for a hot spring bath surrounded by nature's beauty: truly one of life's great pleasures.Part 6 Photos 【Whitewater Rafting】<br /><br /><br/>The Xiuguluan River is a popular rafting spot due to its numerous rapids and the beautiful canyon views.Part 7 Photos 【Drum King Competition】<br /><br /><br/>This competition is held annually in Bazi Village. In earlier times, it involved a drumming procession amidst the sounds of firecrackers. Today, the contest serves to promote the best of drumming traditions.Part 8 Photos 【Wuhe Tea Farms】<br /><br /><br/>Wuhe Village in Ruisui Township is the home of Tianhe Tea. This variety brews to a light, translucent hue and has a smooth sweet taste that has earned it renown both in Taiwan and the wider world.Part 9 Photos 【Tropic of Cancer】<br /><br /><br/>The eye-catching Tropic of Cancer Landmark at Wuhe Terrace is one of the must-see sites when visiting Ruisui.Part 10 Photos 【East Rift Valley】<br /><br /><br/>The East Rift Valley occupies a narrow strip between the towering Central Mountains and Coast Mountains. Ruisui Township is located in this scenic area, where natural and rustic charm abound.





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AddressRuisui Township, Hualien County
Longitude/Latitude  (23.5205619,121.4113308)
Public1.THSR: From Taipei Main Station take the Hualien-bound train to Ruisui.2.Taiwan Railway: Take the Hualien-bound Ziqiang Express or Juguang Express train to Ruisui.3.Bus: From the front of Hualien Railway Station take the Hualien Bus South Line, Hongye Line, or Lede Line to Ruisui.






Taiwanese style tour - Daxi Township, Taoyuan County: A Presidential Town

 
Daxi Township, Taoyuan County: A Presidential Town



Daxi Township, Taoyuan County: A Presidential TownDaxi is closely linked to the history and memory of Chiang Kai-shek and Chiang Ching-kuo, former presidents of the ROC, with a trove of stories waiting to be discovered. For the traveler, this picturesque, centuries-old town offers historic buildings, trails, cultural activities, wood sculpture, and delicious food. It also offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities for relaxation. Daxi has been a hub for travelers for over a century. It is the origination point of the Northern Cross-island Highway. Setting out from Daxi, travelers can experience a variety of scenic attractions and tribal culture. It is also highly accessible for international travelers. The 2011 Michelin Guide gave Daxi a two-star (Recommended) rating and a two-page introduction. Ready to go? Join us, and create lasting memories in Daxi.


Part 1 Photos 【Daxi Old Street】<br /><br /><br /><br/>Radiating outwards from Heping Street, this historic street is lined with old Baroque-style buildings and amenities for recreation, cultural education, and tourism purposes, making this a must-see destination in Daxi.Part 2 Photos 【Daxi Bridge】<br /><br /><br /><br/>Built in the same Baroque style as Old Street area, this bridge lights up brilliantly each night, attracting many photographers.Part 3 Photos 【Houci Lake】<br /><br /><br /><br/>Houci Lake is a natural paradise with a well-preserved ecology. It is also a good spot to learn about the culture and history surrounding Chiang Kai-shek and his family.Part 4 Photos 【Cihu Presidential Burial Place】<br /><br /><br /><br/>This is the final resting place of Chiang Kai-shek, former president of the ROC founding father. It was favored by Chiang due to similarities to his ancestral home in Zhejiang Province. In memory of his mother, he named iPart 5 Photos 【Cihu Sculpture Memorial Park】<br /><br /><br /><br/>There are over 100 bronze statues of Chiang Kai-shek at this park, each one a unique piece of art. It is the only park on the island dedicated to the memory of one person.Part 6 Photos 【Changing of the Guards】<br /><br /><br /><br/>The ceremonial changing of the honor is performed, with rifle displays, each hour. This spectacle can only be seen at five locations in Taiwan, two of which are located in Daxi.Part 7 Photos 【Zhongzheng Park】<br /><br /><br /><br/>Located on the terrace of the Dahan River, Zhongzheng Park is a scenic back garden to Daxi Old Street. The old trees and lush vegetation here create a welcome spot to relax during your visit to Daxi.Part 8 Photos 【National Heritage Site – Former Residence of Lee Teng-fang】<br /><br /><br /><br/>This is the only grade-two historic site in Taoyuan County. The elegant compound home is built in a classic Hakka style and is known for its intricate carved woodwork.Part 9 Photos 【Shimen Reservoir】<br /><br /><br /><br/>This scenic reservoir is a popular destination for both local and international tourists. River fish cuisine, boat cruises, and cycling are among the many attractions here.Part 10 Photos 【Flower Kingdom】<br /><br /><br /><br/>Taoyuan County is known as the





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AddressDa River (Daxi) Township, Taoyuan County
Longitude/Latitude  (24.8806111,121.2870833)
Public1.THSR: From Taoyuan Station, take the THSR Shuttle Bus 170 to the Zhongli Station (Taoyuan Bus) in Zhongli City. Then take the Tour Taiwan Shuttle (Cihu Route); or from Zhongli Rear Station take the Daxi-bound Taoyuan Bus No. 5098 to Xinjiewei.2.Taiwan Railway: Take the train to Zhongli Railway Station. Then catch the Tour Taiwan Shuttle (Cihu Route) at the Zhongli Station (Taoyuan Bus); or from Zhongli Rear Station take the Daxi-bound Taoyuan Bus No. 5098 to Xinjiewei.3.Bus: Take the bus to Zhongli Station (Taoyuan Bus) in Zhongli City. Then take the Tour Taiwan Shuttle (Cihu Route); or from Zhongli Rear Station take the Daxi-bound Taoyuan Bus No. 5098 to Xinjiewei. Alternatively, go to the Taoyuan Bus Terminal in Taoyuan City and take the Daxi-bound Taoyuan Bus No. 5096 to Xinjiewei.






Taiwanese style tour - Jiji Township, Nantou County: Railway Impressions and Cycling Excursions

Jiji Township, Nantou County: Railway Impressions and Cycling Excursions



Jiji Township, Nantou County: Railway Impressions and Cycling ExcursionsFew things can lighten the spirits like a leisurely bicycle ride along the sun-splashed Jiji Green Tunnel. The railway and beautiful farmland accompany you along the way; and the ever-changing tapestry of Jiji Township's scenic charms unfold as you pedal along, showing one why this area is one of Taiwan's premier visitor destinations.For those weary of the noise and stress of the city, Jiji offers a small-town escape into a world where life slows down and the soothing influence of nature is everywhere present.Jiji's allures are multidimensional, from its historic railway station to natural landscape, cuisine to local specialty items. All of these elements form together to create a place of natural richness and cultural depth and place Jiji Township in a unique position on Taiwan's tourism map. Board a train or set out on a bike, however you explore, Jiji is sure to win your heart.



Part 1 Photos 【Train to Yesteryear】<br /><br /><br/>The nostalgic old train and historic stations on the Jiji Branch Line invite you to take a rail journey to an earlier time.Part 2 Photos 【Around-town Bicycle Route】<br /><br /><br/>A leisurely ride along this 20.8-km Jiji route is an excellent choice any time of the year.Part 3 Photos 【Green Tunnel】<br /><br /><br/>The 4.5-km Jiji Green Tunnel is a sun-speckled route lined with a thousand hundred-year-old camphor trees. The trees form a beautiful green canopy to shade away the summer heat and set a perfect scenic note.Part 4 Photos 【Endemic Species Research Institute】<br /><br /><br/>ERSI is home to one the largest collections of endemic species in Taiwan, offering ample opportunity to learn about the island's natural world. A small station serving the institute was recently added on the Jiji BranPart 5 Photos 【Jiji Mountain】<br /><br /><br/>The challenging bicycle ride up to the peak of Jiji Mountain is rewarded with a view of the cloud-nestled Yushan (Jade Mountain), Hehuan Mountain, Sun Moon Lake, Jiujiu Peak, and Bagua Mountain.Part 6 Photos 【Tenshing Kiln and Jiji 921 Culture Wall】</p><br /><br/><p>Located off the Jiji Green Tunnel, this winding, snake-like kiln was spared by the 921 Earthquake. The main wall of kiln is inscribed with a lighthearted poem reading, Part 7 Photos 【Peace Garden Cosmos Blooms】<br /><br /><br/>Cosmos flowers and brilliant red roses form a sea of color at the Jiji Peace Garden. In addition to the flowers, sweet dragon fruit, lychees and other tasty seasonal fruit await for the picking.Part 8 Photos 【 Jiji Station】<br /><br /><br/>This century-old railway station is just a few minutes away from Mingxin Academy. The sounds of young students reciting from books can often be heard at this historic school, recalling a scene from earlier times.Part 9 Photos 【 Jiji Weir】<br /><br /><br/>Stretching 352.5 meters, this is the longest weir in Taiwan. The weir has 18 spillways and a water resource hall with viewing platform.Part 10 Photos 【Zhenguo Temple Buddhist Stupa 】<br /><br /><br/>Also known as the World Peace Pagoda, this temple is the highest Buddhist stupa in Southeast Asia and has 208 bronze prayer wheels. With its quiet elegance and monastic life, the temple has become an especially popular de




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AddressJiji Township, Nantou County
Longitude/Latitude  (23.83,120.783)
Public1.THSR: Take the THSR to Wuri Station in Taichung. Follow the station signs to Xinwuri Station (Taiwan Railway) and take the train to Ershui and transfer to the Jiji Branch Line.2.Taiwan Railway: Take the train to Ershui Station and transfer to the Jiji Branch Line.3.Bus: From Gancheng Station in Taichung, take the Shuili-bound All-Da Bus to Jiji; or from Ershui, Yuanlin, or Zhushan, take the Yuanlin Bus to Shuili to Jiji.