This is my first review of an international trip, and I'm so excited! It wasn't a date, nor was it a honeymoon.

'Taiwan' has been my dream country for a long time.

I started saving 1,500 baht per month, seriously 1,500 baht! Slowly but surely.

I made a pact with my boyfriend back in our sweet, innocent days that we would go together, and today, that dream has come true.

I didn't do much, just saved money, haha.

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And so begins the story of this trip.

Valentine's Day Activities in Taiwan: Taking my boyfriend hiking.

Enjoying the beautiful views and eating sandwiches on the mountain ridge - super romantic! Hahahaha.

Here's the plan!

This review is perfect for nature lovers, as it takes you outside the city throughout your trip.

And for those who are new to planning trips, don't worry.

It's a country that's easy to travel to and actually go to!

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First, let's summarize the approximate budget in a way that's easy to understand.

This trip is not about luxury, but it is not too rough either.

We will focus on street food and maybe some shabu.

We will sleep in hotels every night and do some shopping.

The biggest expense will be the plane tickets, which I want to try out.

What do you mean? They have direct flights, don't they? I want to experience a five-star airline.

I found a round-trip flight with Hong Kong Airlines for 7500 per person, with a three-hour layover.

Well, for a long weekend, I'll take that price! 5555

Let's explore the wonders of Taiwan!

Ready to embark on an exciting adventure to Taiwan? Join us as we delve into the heart of this vibrant island nation.

For those with wanderlust, seeking new travel experiences, explore our curated itineraries on the 247Journey page. Every day is a journey, after all!

Our adventure unfolds:

• Travel Dates: February 9th - 15th, 2017
• Valentine's Day Special: We strategically planned our trip to coincide with Valentine's Day.

Day 1:

• Early Bird Flight: Our journey begins with a 3:30 AM flight, arriving in Hong Kong around 7:00 AM.
• Connecting Flight: After a brief layover, we board our 9:00 AM flight from Hong Kong, reaching Taipei by 11:00 AM.
• Five-Star Airline Experience: We opted for HK Airlines, a renowned five-star carrier, and were impressed by the spacious seating, in-flight entertainment, and attentive service.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates as we explore the hidden gems of Taiwan!

And this is the legendary single-loaf bread. Served as a single loaf, confirmed! 5555

Note: At Hong Kong Airport, seats are equipped with power outlets for charging devices. USB cables can also be used for charging.

Wi-Fi is available, among other amenities, enhancing the quality of life for urban residents.

And just like that, we're at Taoyuan Airport!

As soon as we landed, we walked out of the gate and went straight to buy a SIM card.

There are plenty of options to choose from, but rest assured, the 4G there is blazing fast!

Here are the SIM card prices.

The Taiwanese dollar is roughly equivalent to the Thai baht. As a simple conversion, 1 NT$ is approximately equal to 1 Thai baht.

After completing the SIM card mission, we headed to the bus to enter Taipei City. Let's set up a base in the city center first.

Transportation: There are many ways to get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei City.

The latest update is that the Airport MRT is now open. We think it's the most convenient.

However, when we were not yet open, we used the bus instead, which can travel 24 hours a day.

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We follow the Bus to City sign and we will find the ticket booth. Look for the last four digits 1819 to play the lottery. #wrong

It is the bus route that will travel to Taipei City, and our destination is Taipei Main Station.

Come on, come on! As soon as you see the bus, rush to get on first and sit down.

Sit anywhere you like, just make yourself comfortable.

Your luggage goes under the bus, just like on a regular bus back home.

The bus will stop directly at Taipei Main Station.

First, let me explain why we chose to drop off at Taipei Main Station.

Taipei Main Station is a central hub for all transportation in Taiwan.

It connects to TRA (trains) and HSR (high-speed rail) that run to other cities throughout the island, as well as MRT (subway) that runs to various points in Taipei City.

Therefore, it is an ideal location for travelers like us who are going to different cities, as it can save us some transportation costs.

For our first night's accommodation, we checked in at Main Inn Taipei.

It is located 5 minutes away from Taipei Main Station.

It's easy to find. Just open Google Maps and walk there, or look for Taipei City Mall Exit Y11.

We got a price of 1500 baht, even though the room is not very big.

But it is clean and very nice. The service is excellent. They are very caring. 5555

After checking in and dropping off my luggage, my stomach started to growl loudly. The bread I had earlier was no longer satisfying. Haha.

Our first stop in Taiwan is a street food stall!

We're just like any other tourist who doesn't know any Chinese at all. 5555555

With full confidence, everyone should understand what we are communicating (self-centered view of the world lol).

Sign language or whatever, but sometimes you might be too self-absorbed.

The reality is that they don't understand us, what we want, or what we want to eat.

In the end, just point. Point to the people who are already eating. Haha.

And we got this bowl of noodles, which I don't know what it's called.

The broth is thick, kind of like gravy or fish sauce.

Who says Taiwanese food is delicious? Well, it's a matter of taste, I guess. 5555555

The taste is a bit bland, so you can add chili and sauce to your liking.

Another dish, no different from the one the person next to me ordered, came with a dry sauce.

It reminded me of the kway teow lord (rice noodle rolls) in a brown paper bag that we used to buy in front of the school when we were kids.

I wonder if anyone else has ever eaten it like we did.

Rice vermicelli, bean sprouts, and pork in a dark sauce. Oh, this is delicious!

Every single person who visits Taiwan falls head over heels for 7-Eleven's milk tea.

It may look plain, but don't let that fool you - it's incredibly delicious.

It's similar to our bubble tea, but without the tapioca pearls. It's also more fragrant and subtly sweet, slowly leading you down the path to diabetes. Haha!

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For this trip, we mainly used the Easy Card for convenience.

It can be used for buses, trains, and even purchases at Family Mart.

Note: We recommend topping up the card gradually as needed (e.g., 300 or 200 baht) to avoid incurring a refund fee when returning the card and deposit.

For more information about Easy Card, please refer to this link: >> https://pantip.com/topic/34288482

Our first and only stop today is

Jiufen Old Street,

a popular tourist destination in Taiwan. It's like Pattaya for foreigners visiting Thailand.

Jiufen is like a Walking Street, full of tourists. Say hi!

Directions:

MRT: Take the MRT from Taipei Main Station to Zhongxiao Fuxing Station, Exit 1.

Walking: Upon exiting the station, turn around and walk back in the direction you came from. Continue walking until you reach the corner of the street, then turn left.

And then just walk straight ahead, you'll come across a shop called B MORI. There will be a bus stop with a lot of people waiting around.

Check if the 1062 bus stops there. If it does, just wait for it!

Line up beautifully to get on the bus!

The fare is approximately 100 NT$. Get off at Jiufen Old Street.

The day we went, it was extremely windy and freezing cold.

As soon as we got out of the car, we had to run to find a place to hide for a bit. We headed straight for Family Mart.

Oh, heaven! It wasn't anything special, but it was so warm inside.

But what was even more amazing was that we found this...

The indoor seating area offers the most stunning view in the world, hands down. It goes to Family Mart. Wow!

Sipping coffee and enjoying the view like this, it's just perfect! 55555

After that, we started to wander around.

Red lanterns are the signature of Jiufen.

Jiu份's Delicious Old-Fashioned Ice Cream

One of the most memorable experiences in Jiu份 is trying their unique old-fashioned ice cream. Imagine a roti-like flatbread topped with peanuts, ice cream, and a sprinkle of coriander. It may sound like an unusual combination, but trust us, it's incredibly delicious! The unexpected flavors blend harmoniously, creating a truly unforgettable treat.

This local delicacy is a must-try for anyone visiting Jiu份. Priced at an affordable 40 NT$, it's a delightful way to cool down and experience the unique flavors of this charming town.

Strolling around, I stumbled upon a hidden nook that seemed to be the entrance to a cool guesthouse.

Translation:

But when it came out, I thought I was in Busan. Wow...beautiful.

Taiwan's nature is truly amazing. Everywhere you look, it's refreshing. It's all big mountains.

For us, Jiufen is not that exciting.

It is an ancient street with a lot of food stalls and some new cafes. Most of the visitors are tourists.

If you are focusing on sightseeing in Taipei and don't know where to go, you can stop by for a short visit. It's close and very convenient to travel to.

One more thing, on the way back, walk past the 7-11 and up the hill a bit, you will find this bus stop. Just hop on!

Note: Don't walk back to the original bus stop, they won't pick you up. We tried it ourselves, haha.

Day 2: Alishan

Today, we embark on a journey to Alishan, the majestic realm of towering pine forests. Just the thought of it sends shivers of excitement down our spines!

To reach this breathtaking destination, we opted for the HSR, Taiwan's high-speed rail. This mode of transportation allows us to save precious time, as Alishan is located quite a distance away.

While walk-in ticket purchases are possible, we opted for the safer route of pre-booking our seats to ensure a smooth journey. The official HSR Taiwan website is a viable option for booking tickets, but it requires specifying exact dates and times. To accommodate potential delays or unforeseen circumstances, we chose an alternative method.

We booked our tickets through KKday, an online platform that offers deals on tickets, tours, and transportation services.

KKday is not limited to Taiwan but covers tourist destinations across Asia.

We chose to book through this website because it allowed us to select a date without specifying a time, and we also received a 20% discount.

This option is especially worthwhile for groups.

Booking is easy! Just click on this link: https://www.kkday.com/en/product/2674

For those who are going to Alishan, choose Taipai - Chaiyi (Chiayi).

Once you have paid, you will receive a CF Voucher via email. This will give you peace of mind.

The ticket is a 1-Way Ticket. Once redeemed, it is recommended to find the correct platform. The seat number and travel time are clearly indicated.

One of the most impressive things is that the trains here are very punctual. If you plan your time well, everything will go according to plan.

The atmosphere while waiting is very sleepy in the early morning.

I grabbed a quick bite at 7-11. The sandwiches here are packed with meat, no skimping.

Or if you're tired of sandwiches, try a wrap instead. It's delicious!

The trains here are spacious and extremely clean.

They are comfortable to ride in and I really like them.

The high-speed electric train looks amazing!

As promised, traveling to Alishan is incredibly easy!

Upon exiting the station, a bus awaits you on the platform directly ahead. The organization of tourism here is truly commendable.

After exiting the HSR station, head towards Exit 2, where you will find the bus to Alishan conveniently located on Platform 3.

Note: It is highly recommended to check the schedules of both the HSR and the bus to ensure a smooth connection and avoid unnecessary waiting time.

Check HSR schedules >> http://www.thsrc.com.tw/en/TimeTable/SearchResult

Check BUS schedule from HSR Chiayi to Alishan

Information from 1000MilesJourney.com page, thank you very much.

>> http://www.1000milesjourney.com/alishan-in-the-mist/

Travel time is about 2 and a half hours, fare is about 230 NT$

Before reaching Alishan, the driver suddenly stopped the car and spoke to us in Chinese. We were confused.

Fortunately, a Taiwanese person next to us helped to translate. It turned out that we needed to get off the bus to buy entrance tickets.

The bus will drop us off at the 7-11 store, which is the gathering point. We will board the bus again at the same spot for our return trip.

This is the sign that we have arrived at Alishan!

Pack your bags and check in to our accommodation tonight.

Alishan Dengshan Hotel

After doing some research, I decided to stay in the Hotel Area, which is close to Alishan Railway Station.

I really want to see the sunrise in the morning.

Staying in this area is the most convenient option, as I won't need to transfer to another vehicle.

However, be prepared for the high prices in the Hotel Area. The rooms are just average, so be prepared for that. 55555555

The rooms here are a bit old, but they are clean enough.

There are electric blankets, but the temperature control is not very good. I woke up in the middle of the night feeling hot.

Note: The weather in Alishan is quite cold, and it is probably cool all year round. When we went, the highest temperature was about 8 degrees Celsius, and the lowest was 3 degrees Celsius. It was also very foggy.

Our plan for today is to hike in the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area.

First, we need to start at the Alishan Railway Station.

Alishan Railway Station - an old railway line and known as one of the most beautiful railway lines in the world!

Alishan Forest Railway: A Breathtaking Journey Through the Clouds

The Alishan Forest Railway offers a truly unforgettable experience, immersing travelers in stunning natural beauty and serene tranquility. Our journey began with a train ride from Alishan Station to Chaoping Station, where we were greeted by breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

From Chaoping Station, we embarked on a leisurely walk to Sacred Tree Station, enjoying the fresh mountain air and the lush greenery that enveloped us. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the entire route can be traversed on foot, allowing for a deeper connection with nature.

The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the sunrise, which we witnessed after spending the night at Alishan. The golden rays of dawn illuminated the majestic peaks, creating a spectacle of unparalleled beauty. To ensure the best viewing experience, we purchased train tickets the evening before, as the departure times are announced closer to sunrise.

The Alishan Forest Railway is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape. Whether you choose to ride the train or embark on a scenic hike, this journey through the clouds will leave you with lasting memories.

It takes about 6 minutes to reach Chaoping Station. It's not far at all.

Walk along the path, heading towards the pine forest kingdom / Sister Pond / Shouzhen temple to head to the Sacred Tree.

Beautiful as the story goes.

The nature trail is amazing!

Sister Pond: A Highlight Tourist Destination

Legend has it that two sisters fell in love with the same man.

However, blood is thicker than water!

Each sister cared for the other's feelings and did not want anyone to get hurt.

But in reality, neither of them could deny their own hearts and wanted to end this matter once and for all.

So they decided to end their lives here, becoming a legend that has been passed down through generations.

The hiking trails in Alishan are quite impressive.

Alishan is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Taiwan. It's definitely worth making time for this incredible destination!

And the end of the line at Sacred Tree Station, waiting for the train back. This is how cool the train station is, lol. 5555555

The train is here!

Note: The last train back is around 4:30 PM. Plan your time accordingly.

To conclude the evening meal, we visited a shabu-shabu restaurant located at the end of the street, just before the 7-Eleven.

The restaurant offers set menus, with the small set for two people priced at NT$880. This includes a hot pot and approximately five dishes, such as fried mackerel with tofu, stir-fried vegetables, rice, and unlimited drinks.

This was a perfect way to end the cold evening!

The next morning, I woke up very early, feeling excited and anxious. I wondered if I would be able to see the sunrise, as it was drizzling and the fog was very thick.

And this is the view we got 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We need to hurry to get off the train, collect our belongings, and check out to prepare for our journey to the next city!

In other words, we need to catch the first train out, which is at 9 am. Let's run!

Day 3: A Journey to Cingjing

Today was dedicated to traveling, with our destination being Cingjing. To be honest, we didn't have high expectations for Cingjing. As far as we knew, it was mainly known for its sheep farm, which wasn't particularly appealing to us.

Our true motivation was to witness the sunrise at Hehuanshan, prompting us to plan an overnight stay in Cingjing.

Traveling from Alishan to Cingjing isn't a common route, mainly because it's quite tiring. There are no direct buses from Alishan to Cingjing, and you have to start your journey in Taichung.

Planning our trip from Alishan to Cingjing required precise timing. We were initially quite worried and meticulously planned our A and B options, determined to make it happen.

Our first task was to find the earliest bus from Alishan. We needed to catch a bus to TRA or HSR Chiayi. Then, we had to check the next bus schedule to decide whether to take a regular train or a high-speed train to Taichung, where we would catch the bus to Cingjing.

The last bus on Saturdays and Sundays leaves at 2 pm.

Note: The bus ticket booth is located inside a 7-Eleven. The ticket looks like this:

Ultimately, we opted for the first bus, departing at 9:10 am and arriving at TRA Chiayi around 11:40 am.

We checked the train information from the website to estimate the time it would take to get there. We wanted to make sure we arrived at the train station in time for the 12:15 train.

Link to check TRA schedule >> http://www.railway.gov.tw/en/

This is a great opportunity to try out Taiwan's trains.

The atmosphere of the station is similar to Hua Lamphong, but the people are a bit more rough around the edges. 5555555

The appearance of the train ticket is similar to that of the HSR. I purchased it as a walk-in ticket because I was concerned that the bus might not arrive on time.

We finally made it to Taichung. Our arrival time is 13:27, which is cutting it close.

Normally, the last bus from Taichung departs at 12:25.

Fortunately, we are traveling on a Saturday or Sunday, so there is an additional bus scheduled for 14:25.

After getting off at TRA Taichung Station,

we need to find a way to get to Taichung Gancheng Station, which is the bus station, similar to Sombat Tour/Nakhonchai Air in Thailand.

Note: According to the information center, it's about a 15-minute walk, or we can take a bus, which is only about 3 stops.

So we decided to take the bus. We told the driver where we were going, and he dropped us off on the opposite side of the street.

The intersection is massive, with a huge crowd gathered around a TV Game store across the street.

Facing the game store, turn right.

We will arrive at Taichung Gancheng Station in less than ten rooms. Oh, I'm glad I made it in time.

If you want to visit Sun Moon Lake, you can do so as well.

However, for this trip, we decided to skip it in favor of the renowned sunrise at Hehuanshan Mountain.

Here, you can choose whether to pay for transportation only or include the entrance fee.

Cingjing Day Trip Package for NT$600

This package offers a convenient and cost-effective way to visit Cingjing, a popular mountain resort in Taiwan.

Package Inclusions:

• Round-trip transportation from Taichung to Puli (NT$288 value)
• Round-trip transportation from Puli to Cingjing (NT$244 value)
• Admission to Green Grassland (NT$200 value)
• Shuttle from Cingjing Guesthouse to Green Grassland (NT$26 value)
• Discount on Cingjing Guesthouse accommodation: 40% off weekdays, 15% off weekends

Note: Puli serves as a transfer point for onward travel to other destinations.

Benefits:

• Cost-effective: This package combines transportation, entrance fees, and accommodation discounts, offering significant savings compared to booking individual components.
• Convenient: The package eliminates the need to arrange separate transportation and tickets, simplifying the planning process.
• Flexibility: The package allows for customization, with options to extend the stay or visit other nearby attractions.

Considerations:

• Travel time: The journey from Taichung to Cingjing takes approximately 3-4 hours, which may be a factor for those with limited time.
• Accommodation: While the package includes discounts on Cingjing Guesthouse, other accommodation options are available in the area.
• Activities: The package focuses on Green Grassland, but Cingjing offers various other attractions and activities to explore.

While killing time, I came across a grocery store. I decided to stock up on snacks for the car, including some Taro.

At first, I expected it to taste like Cheetos, but Cheetos are much tastier. The cheese smells stronger. Haha.

And I found my favorite things, everything is just like in Thailand, haha.

The bus has arrived, let's start our journey!

Cingjing is not just about the sheep farm. The scenery is breathtaking, and there's much more to explore.

Unlike Alishan, the bus doesn't terminate at Cingjing Farm. It goes beyond, so be sure to inform the driver where you want to get off.

I didn't realize that Cingjing Guest House was the main stop, so I missed it. I ended up at the sheep farm, which is likely the last stop.

Fortunately, there's a shuttle bus from the sheep farm to Cingjing Guest House.

Tip: Check the location of your accommodation. Most drivers will let you off at your stop if you inform them beforehand.

Alternatively, you can arrange to meet at the main meeting point, Cingjing Guest House, which has amenities like Starbucks and 7-Eleven.

Our accommodation is not located on the main road like others, so some people may not know where it is. 555555

But who knows, it might be one of the hidden gems of Cingjing!

Cingjing Brilliant Twins of Seattle

I was really impressed when I was looking for a hotel. The yellow color is very eye-catching.

I think it will add another level of vibrancy to this trip, so I decided to go for it. Hehe

Note: The hotel will send a car to pick you up at the meeting point. They have a service available, so check the schedule again.

And here, we were not disappointed. The location of the hotel is on the hillside, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

This is the view from our room.

By chance, I was upgraded to a Family room, which was huge! It was spacious and had a hidden chic vibe. It was great.

Restaurant View

Note: For all guests who book a room, you will receive a set of shabu for dinner.

For all customers who book a room, you will receive a free shabu set for dinner.

This is a free gift, and it's delicious too. I was surprised when I got it, because I didn't know about it when I booked the room. I thought I would have to eat instant noodles for dinner! 55555555

Above all, this is the view from our accommodation. We arrived very late and didn't have time to go anywhere, but when we saw this, it was totally worth it.

Watching the sunset, it was so clear.

I never thought Cingjing would be so beautiful.

If you're visiting Cingjing, we highly recommend this place. We were very impressed!

https://www.facebook.com/cingjing.seattle/

Day 4

Everything always exceeds expectations, and watching the sunrise is no exception. It snowed on Hehuanshan, so we couldn't go.

We knew this when we arrived yesterday, but we secretly hoped for good news. In the end, there wasn't any. We didn't actually see the sunrise there.

But hey, let's not get annoyed. Nature is unpredictable.

Traveling teaches us well. Nothing goes according to plan. The most important thing is to cope, adapt, and adjust your mind to the present.

Therefore, our plan for today is to visit the sheep farm, baaah, baaah (is that the sound of a goat? 555555555).

How to get there: After checking out of our accommodation, we will leave our luggage at the original meeting point.

There is a free luggage storage service at Cingjing Guest House.

After that, we will take the shuttle bus to Green Grassland.

The first thing that caught my eye at Cingjing Farm was the stunning European-style scenery. It's not your typical sheep farm, and I would have regretted missing it.

Looking at the map, I realized that there are two zones: the Green Grassland where we are now, and the Mountain View Pastures. Both zones are amazing.

We ended up walking around for a long time, from ten in the morning until after one in the afternoon.

Absolutely stunning! Every angle is picture-perfect. They say this place is the Switzerland of Taiwan, and I can't argue with that.

Cingjing Farm offers sheep and horse shows. Check the show schedule for timings.

Translation:

For the next zone, show your wrist to pass through the gate again. This mountain zone is so beautiful! The nature here is so vibrant and lush.

The cherry blossoms are starting to bloom.

At first glance, I thought it was a bicycle lane, but it turned out to be a skywalk. Just thinking about it makes me excited!

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Here, you'll find a network of easy-to-navigate trails that showcase the stunning natural beauty of Cingjing.

With its picturesque viewpoints and accessible paths, this mountaintop destination is perfect for a family outing.

Translation:

Our final destination was the 499 Steps Trails, marking the end of our hiking adventure.

We continued walking until we reached the Cingjing Guest House, where we waited for our transportation back to Taichung.

For those traveling to Alishan and Cingjing, be prepared for the cold weather!

A handy innovation is the hot sandbag. Simply tear open the package, hold the sandbag in each hand and squeeze.

The sand will gradually heat up and provide warmth. It's a lifesaver!

We kept it in our pockets all the time, ready to warm our hands. But if you have someone special with you,

you can put it in their pocket instead. Aww, so sweet!

Note: It's very cold in Cingjing, so we even put it in our socks!

Available at 7-Eleven for under 20NT$.

And we finally made it to Taipei! To experience the vibrant city life, we chose to stay in the Ximending district.

It's like the Siam Square of Bangkok, but even more bustling.

Oh, and there was a lantern festival happening when we visited, so it was super crowded.

We will be staying in Ximending for 3 nights, so we need to choose a hotel that is convenient and affordable.

We have already booked most of our hotels in advance.

We have a favorite website that we use for booking, TraveliGo.com.

It includes everything related to travel, including flights, accommodation, and travel insurance.

The prices shown are without any additional charges, which is very convenient.

This time, we booked our accommodation and travel insurance through this website. It's easy, complete, and convenient.

Note: I recommend booking travel insurance because when you travel long distances,

you never know what might happen. It's better to be safe than sorry. The starting price is not expensive, and it gives you some peace of mind in case something happens and you need help.

Translation:

Here we are! This is the Ximending we've been looking for!

Crowded with people, shops, and various brands.

Shoe lovers will be ecstatic with ABC MART, not to mention other shops with attractive prices.

And don't miss the street food, which they say is amazing! Go try it for yourself!

Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodle

A renowned establishment with over 40 years of experience. A must-try for visitors, the shop is easily identifiable by the long queue extending beyond its storefront. The wait is short, as customers move along in an orderly fashion.

The dish resembles stir-fried fish maw, featuring a generous portion of noodles and a small amount of offal.

Translation:

The noodles here are different from the white rice noodles used in Thai boat noodles. They are slightly rounder and have a pleasantly chewy texture.

The broth is flavorful, but if you prefer a stronger taste, you can add your own seasonings.

Small cup 50 NT$

This restaurant, named OSAKA, is just as crowded as the others.

It's located on the corner and sells both fried chicken and yakisoba.

The yakisoba here is stir-fried on a teppanyaki grill in large batches right in front of the restaurant. Just watching it makes you hungry. The taste is decent, not bad at all.

Small box 60 NT$

Let's talk about milk tea.

50 Lan is a popular bubble tea shop with multiple locations in the Ximending market. They offer English menus and allow customers to customize the sweetness and ice level of their drinks.

This particular cup is an unsweetened oolong tea with tapioca pearls and coconut jelly. The pearls are incredibly soft, and the tea has a light, fragrant aroma.

This glass is green tea.

I heard it just came back after being out of stock for several months.

So we went on a hunt for it at every branch until we found this one in the same alley as the grilled mochi shop.

We chose less sweet and it was delicious. The tea has a nice aroma.

The large tapioca pearls like in the picture were sold out, so we got these small ones instead. They're still delicious.

This is grilled mochi.

This is a grilled mochi, which is toasted until crispy and puffy. There are many sauces to choose from, both savory and sweet.

We chose the BBQ and cheese sauce. The hot dough was delicious, but the sauce wasn't really to our liking. Oh well.

This is my favorite part of the presentation.

It's roti, bought from a food cart in the Ximending market. The roti here is not served with milk and sugar like in Thailand, but with savory fillings.

We can choose our own fillings, just like with crepes.

There are eggs, ham, cheese, shredded pork, etc. The roti dough is thick, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I love it!

Delicious!

Besides bubble tea, people here probably love fried food the most. 55555

Like this fried chicken menu, it's available in almost every market. But I saw this shop ranked number 1, they've been selling for over 40 years. Might as well give it a try.

Crispy, golden-brown fried chicken with a tender interior. A culinary marvel! 5555

Sprinkled with a flavorful seasoning after frying. Highly recommended for fried food enthusiasts. I absolutely love it!

To end the night, let's have some carambola juice. This shop is conveniently located near the MRT exit.

Translation:

This restaurant actually sells pineapple juice, but it seemed to be sold out when we visited.

The taste is sour and salty, which is quite refreshing. They also offer a version with starfruit pulp, but we weren't able to order it, unfortunately.

Translation:

Accommodation in Ximending:

We opted to stay at the Colormix Hotel & Hostel in Ximending. The rooms were exceptionally clean, and the space was cleverly designed. The price was also very reasonable.

The staff was incredibly helpful, and the owner even spoke a little Thai.

Importantly, the hotel is located within a 5-minute walk from the MRT station. It's just a short walk down an alleyway, making it an ideal location for a peaceful night's sleep.

Note: While there were other accommodations closer to the MRT, we felt they were too close, and we were concerned about noise and crowds.

Day 5

Today's plan is to have a picnic at Yangmingshan National Park.

If you haven't been to Taiwan yet, this is a must-visit place.

It's worth a trip to Taiwan. It's a very beautiful national park. The natural scenery is amazing and everyone will fall in love with it.

It's a hiking trail that is both tiring and rewarding. It's good in every way.

Looking that way, wow, looking this way, wow, it's really great, really great, really great. 55555555

It's so good that I have to recommend it to everyone.

The most important thing is that it's in Taipei! Who would have thought that the capital city would have such a good place!

Getting there: Take the MRT to Jiantan Station and exit from Exit 1.

When you come out, turn left and walk back a little bit, and find bus route R5. The last stop is here.

Upon reaching the Yangmingshan bus stop, another bus will be waiting.

This is the legendary Route 108, which operates as a shuttle bus within Yangmingshan National Park.

The bus will drop passengers off at various tourist attractions within the park for a fare of 15 NT$ per ride.

Note: Some people have mentioned that there is a day pass available, so check for updates.

Tourist Attractions

1. Yangmingshan Bus Station

2. Tourist Service Center Headquarters

3. Yangmingshuwu

4. Zhuzihu

5. Mt. Qixing

6. Erziping

7. Xiaoyoukeng* (Closed)

8. Zhonghu

9. Lengshuikeng (to Qingtiangang)* (Closed)

10. Qingtiangang* (Closed)

11. Lengshuikeng

12. Songyuan

13. Juansi Waterfall

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Source: http://www.taiwan.net.my/th/attractions/66-district/northern/taipei/524-yangmingshan-national-park-th

The listed tourist attractions are all within walking distance. Feel free to plan your trip according to your convenience.

For today, I woke up late and started my journey around 9-10 am, fearing that the park would be closed.

I initially planned to visit three main attractions, as indicated by the asterisks. However, I ended up being exhausted and only managed to visit two.

Xiao you keng

Our first stop in Yangmingshan after the legendary 108 world-class thrill ride.

Oh my god, besides the good weather, another thing is the nature of Taiwan. If you are a nature lover, this country is really not to be missed.

Highlights of Xiaoyoukeng

Beyond its hiking trails, Xiaoyoukeng is renowned for its post-volcanic steam and sulfur vents, attracting visitors eager to witness this unique geological phenomenon.

Every view from this spot is breathtaking! After soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, we continued our journey.

Translation:

Note: The Xiaoyoukeng bus stop is widely considered to be the most beautiful bus stop in the world.

Recommendation: For those with the energy and time, consider hiking the trail from Xiaoyoukeng to the summit of Qixing Mountain.

Highlight: The views along the trail are said to be spectacular, offering a glimpse of the majestic Elephant Mountain in miniature.

Additional Information: The descent can be made at Lengshuikeng.

Next, a place that no one recommends, but we highly recommend it!

Leng shui keng

This place is actually famous for its hot springs, but another coincidence is that we also saw a sign for a Hiking Trail there.

It said it was about 1.8 kilometers, so we thought we'd give it a try so we wouldn't waste our trip.

And finally, you know what? After walking for about two breaths, it started to rain.

The wind was very strong, and there was a storm. We found a pavilion and stopped to rest for a while. It looked like it was really going to rain.

In the end, we decided to hurry down and walk back the way we came. 55555555

Let's take a look at the scenery along the way.

For those who want to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the views without getting too tired (a bit of a paradox, haha!), we recommend getting off at this stop.

The view is amazing.

The atmosphere here is simply amazing. Wow!

Translation:

"Adding a cool profile picture before I leave! 😎"

Note: On the way back, we took bus 108 back to the original stop and then transferred to bus R5 to MRT Jiantan Station.

Alternatively, you can take bus R15 from Leng shui keng stop back to MRT Jiantan Station (we waited for it at first, but it was too crowded and we missed it).

After a short but tiring hike, I was ready to indulge in a delicious feast.

For all you sushi and sashimi lovers out there, this place is a true paradise!

Addiction Aquatic Development (AAD)

Located at the Second Wholesale Fruit and Vegetable Market, just to be safe, I called ahead to make sure they were open.

Once you're done, cross the street and enter the alley next to Family Mart. Turn right, and you'll see the restaurant's sign.

Stand Sushi Bar: A Feast for the Senses

This section of the market boasts multiple zones, and we'll begin our exploration with the Stand Sushi Bar. Many have warned of long wait times, and we feared we might miss out. However, luck was on our side, and we managed to snag a spot. We decided to indulge in a sashimi platter, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait.

While the price point may not be the most budget-friendly, the quality is undeniable. The freshness of the ingredients is unparalleled, with melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that brought tears of joy to our eyes. However, be warned, the prices in this zone are not for the faint of heart. If you're aiming for a truly satisfying meal, be prepared to loosen your purse strings.

With that in mind, we decided to explore another zone, leaving the Stand Sushi Bar behind.

Popular Zone: Ready to Go

This zone offers a wide variety of ready-to-eat sushi, sashimi, rice bowls, and seafood options, including shrimp, oysters, crab, and roe. The selection is vast and the prices are considered affordable compared to similar quality offerings in Thailand.

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The next row features a wide selection of fried and grilled items, including tonkatsu, grilled fish, and grilled shrimp.

The dessert menu is just as extensive, with a tempting array of delicious options.

The restaurant offers outdoor seating with table service.

Soy sauce, wasabi, and other condiments are available for free at the payment counter.

Enjoying a light sushi snack to keep us going.

Grilled eel served in large slices.

All I can say is that it's delicious, delicious, and delicious.

This is a rice ball with tempura. Wow!

The shrimp is huge! It comes with a salad dressing for dipping.

Translation:

Three giant pieces for just over 100 baht! A steal! (Shrimp + full)

Note: Before I went to Taiwan, someone told me there was a must-try milk tea shop called "Uncle's Milk Tea" near NTU. I had to go there.

I'm in! I've been wanting to try this since day one, but haven't had the time to swing by. Today, I finally have some free time, so let's do it!

This area is really nice to walk around, with lots of college students and a lively atmosphere.

But I'm heading straight to Uncle's Milk Tea Shop, the only one in this area. I'm very determined!

Directions: Take the MRT to Gongguan Station, Exit 4. I used Google Maps and Wongnai to find my way.

Translation:

Standing tall and proud, impossible to miss!

Uncle's Milk Tea Shop (Chen Khad) 陳三鼎 (Chen Khad)

This shop is perfect for those who love tapioca pearls like me. I highly recommend it! You won't be disappointed!

This tapioca is so good, we surrender! 555555

The tapioca from this shop is super soft, it's like it melts in your mouth. The milk tea itself isn't sweet, but the tapioca has a bit of sweetness to it.

When you drink it, we recommend stirring it well first. If you just stick a straw in and start sucking like we did, you might get a sore throat! 5555555

And the final destination of the day: Shilin Night Market

Getting there: MRT Jiantan Exit 1

Personally, I think night markets in Taiwan are all good!

The street food is pretty much the same everywhere, but each night market seems to have its own highlights.

However, I must say that it was incredibly crowded. So crowded that there was no room left in my stomach!

But since I was already there, I couldn't miss out. So I picked up some delicious treats to share with you as a guide. Starting with:

Super soft sponge cake, very soft, made in a very large piece.

When it's done baking, there will be a cool detail by ringing a bell as a signal.

And then show it cut into small pieces (which are still big, as you can see from the picture) 555555

The Alluring Aroma of Hong Kong Egg Waffles

The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked egg waffles wafted through the air, drawing an ever-growing queue of eager customers. Among them was Longkon, who couldn't resist the allure of these delectable treats. With three tempting flavors to choose from – original, cheese, and chocolate – the decision proved difficult.

Unable to resist the irresistible aroma of the freshly made waffles, Longkon succumbed to the temptation and ordered two flavors. The irresistible scent had cast a spell, leaving them with no choice but to indulge.

Price per piece is around 100 - 120 NT$

Another menu item I recommend you try is the legendary oven-baked steamed bun. The bun itself is wonderfully crispy, and when you bite into it, the filling is still juicy. The pork is very flavorful. It's absolutely delicious!

You'll regret it if you don't try it. Haha.

The night ended with me staring at the bacon with wide eyes. My stomach is going to burst.

Day 6: Mala Yuanyang Hotpot

We started our final day with a bang at Mala Yuanyang Hotpot, the hottest shabu-shabu restaurant in Taiwan, also known as Mala Shabu. This popular spot is always packed, with people lining up before the doors even open.

To tackle the crowds, our team split up and headed to the two nearby locations, a five-minute walk apart. We ended up getting a table at the first branch.

We opted for the original and signature mala broths.

Note: It's recommended to visit during the morning for a higher chance of getting a table and shorter wait times.

Mala Shabu offers a wide variety of ingredients, especially for meat lovers!

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Another factor that can make your shabu experience amazing or terrible is the dipping sauce, which you have to prepare yourself. I recommend adding an egg yolk to the sauce, it really helps!

Note: Another highlight of Mala Shabu is the Movenpick and Haagen-Dazs ice cream. There are about 30 flavors in total, but I was too busy eating to take pictures.

Beitou

Beitou is a famous tourist destination known for its hot springs.

What we love about this town is its lush and serene atmosphere. The walking paths are a joy to explore, offering scenic views and a relaxing escape from the city.

Getting there: Take the MRT to Beitou Station and transfer to the Xinbeitou Station.

Xinbeitou is home to numerous hotels and public hot springs.

As mentioned, the parks and walking paths here are quite pleasant, making it an ideal city for relaxation and leisure.

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In addition to the hot spring, there is also a public library with a rather interesting design.

It is the first green library in Taiwan and has been recognized as one of the 25 most beautiful libraries in the world!

Translation:

The atmosphere during the walk.

Beitou Hot Spring Museum

This museum offers insights into the history of Beitou, housed within a building that was once the largest bathhouse in East Asia. Inside, visitors can explore displays of historical artifacts, providing a comprehensive understanding of Beitou's rich past.

Note: Closed on Mondays.

And now, we arrive at the highlight of this city:

Beitou Thermal Valley

A natural hot spring viewing point from a volcano. The hot spring here has a temperature of 80-100 degrees Celsius. Just getting close to it makes you feel hot, haha!

Note: Closed every Monday.

The colors are very beautiful.

Beitou is suitable for short trips. If you enjoy hot springs, there are both public and private options available. For private hot springs, you can choose packages offered by hotels.

Our plan for today is pretty chill. We'll take a walk around Beitou around 4 pm and then head back to Ximending.

We'll hunt for souvenirs, eat, shop, and relax before packing our bags for our early morning flight.

Finally, let's say goodbye with this picture.

And our trip to Taiwan has come to an end in a most impressive way.

And let's go and hype up our friends that come on, Taiwan, a country that anyone who goes there wants to go again.

If you have any questions about this trip, please visit the 247Journey page.

See you on the next trip, bye!