Naruwan Taiwan!

Overview

Taichung Railway station Photo - Taiwan, Asia

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Naruwan Taiwan! The voice of Ah Mei, a popular Taiwanese singer beckoned us to visit Taiwan for some years now. Together with competitive rates offered by regional budget airlines, we finally succumbed to temptation. The slogan "shop and eat", first touted by the Hong Kong Tourist association for its own promotional campaign can be aptly applied to Taiwan as well. There is so much to see, do and eat that it overwhelmed first time visitors like us. Its unique location, i.e., at the edge of the Western edge of the Pacific "rim of fire" and its rich colonial history results in a diverse yet unique natural and cultural heritage. We did a mini tour of Taiwan via rail. We began at Ta...Read More

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Alishan House

Hotel

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Alisan House is one of the "newer" and pricier hotels in Alisan. Guests have a choice between staying in the hotel suites or rooms at the main building or at wooden cabins located further at the Annex. There are 150 guest rooms and 17 wooden cabins that can accommodate up to 8 persons in all. Regular shuttle buses are available for guests between the main block and annex and from the hotel to the Alisan visitor center and train station. We chose to stay in the wooden cabin for 6 persons (even though there were only 4 of us) as it was cheaper. We arrived at the visitor center slightly ...Read More

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on February 17, 2007

Alishan House
Alishan
Alishan, Taiwan
05-267-9811

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Grand Formosa Taroko, Hualien

Hotel | "Grand Formosa Taroko"

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This is a 5-star hotel nestled in the heart of Taroko National Park. It has everything a tired traveler will need, and more. Facilities include 2 swimming pools (indoor and rooftop), a spa and sauna, an arcade in the basement, 2 restaurants, 2 mini theaters (yes, indoor and outdoors), the list goes on. The rooms are luxurious. Guests have a choice of Western styled and Japanese styled rooms. The deluxe double room comes with a clear glass window between the bathroom and the room… perfect for couples or for someone who wants to have a soak and yet catch the latest drama on telly. We made reservations for a double and a twin sharing deluxe room and were suitably impressed. The rooms came with daily sump...Read More

This is a 5-star hotel nestled in the heart of Taroko National Park. It has everything a tired traveler will need, and more. Facilities include 2 swimming pools (indoor and rooftop), a spa and sauna, an arcade in the basement, 2 restaurants, 2 mini theaters (yes, indoor and outdoors), the list goes on. The rooms are luxurious. Guests have a choice of Western styled and Japanese styled rooms. The deluxe double room comes with a clear glass window between the bathroom and the room… perfect for couples or for someone who wants to have a soak and yet catch the latest drama on telly. We made reservations for a double and a twin sharing deluxe room and were suitably impressed. The rooms came with daily sumptuous Continental buffet. The total costs for a 2-night stay was S$200 (US$140) per person. Our room came with a view of the outdoor theater and courtyard.

There are various activities available in the hotel for those not interested in sightseeing or hiking. From learning local handicrafts to chilling out at the pool, guests will definitely not be bored. Three times a week, there are even dance performances by local students to promote aboriginal culture held at the outdoor theater if the weather is fine, indoors if otherwise.

For keen hikers, there are several simple trails nearby. Guests can purchase the "Taroko Pass" at the travel service counter located opposite the reception. This is essentially a hop on and off service. For NT350 per person, the pass offers unlimited stops at major trail sites in Taroko for the duration of stay.

Except for breakfasts, we took our meals at the restaurants across the hotel. They offer home cooked local meals at more affordable prices. Recommended dishes are the stir-fried wild boar and wild vegetables.

Getting there :
Call at least 3 days in advance to reserve the hotel pick-up service from the train station or airport. There is a fee of NT200 per person one way. It is about 1-hour scenic drive from Hualien train station to the hotel.

Go Here for more information and for reservations.
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Member Rating 4 out of 5 on February 17, 2007

Grand Formosa Taroko, Hualien
18 Tian Hsyang Road
Taroko Gorge, Taiwan

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Rainbow Hotel

Hotel

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This is a tourist class hotel located in the heart of Ximending, a popular shopping area in Taipei. It seemed to be a favourite place to stay among South-east Asians, mainly Singaporeans and Malaysians, probably due to its proximity to shops and eateries. Except for the family suites, most rooms are small and cramp. Room charges are reasonable though in view of its location and comes with complimentary daily breakfast. The down-side of its location, however, meant that we had to tolerate the noise and loud music emitting from nearby shops and cafes till the wee hours. Breakfast was nothing to shout about. It was usually toasted frozen bread with assorted jam. If you are early, there might ...Read More

Member Rating 2 out of 5 on February 17, 2007

Rainbow Hotel
No. 36 Han Chung St.
Taipei, Taiwan
+886 (2) 231-9193

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Ah Liang Railway Bento

Restaurant

Ah Liang's rail bento Photo - Taiwan, Asia

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Fengchihu town marks the mid-point between Chiayi and Alisan forest railway line. No one could explain why this town was named Fengchi Lake since there was/is no lake in sight. This town has a long history of supplying local workers at the nearby tea plantations and later tourists and hikers bento lunches reminisce of the Japanese rail lunch boxes at affordable prices.Our taxi driver cum guide highly recommended us to try the Ah Liang railway bento. Now in its third generation, it is located at the foot of the town's oldest street. The quiet location and rustic setting evokes a laid-back atmosphere that begs visitors to slow down and take a deep breath of the mountain air.Ah Li...Read More

Fengchihu town marks the mid-point between Chiayi and Alisan forest railway line. No one could explain why this town was named Fengchi Lake since there was/is no lake in sight. This town has a long history of supplying local workers at the nearby tea plantations and later tourists and hikers bento lunches reminisce of the Japanese rail lunch boxes at affordable prices.

Our taxi driver cum guide highly recommended us to try the Ah Liang railway bento. Now in its third generation, it is located at the foot of the town's oldest street. The quiet location and rustic setting evokes a laid-back atmosphere that begs visitors to slow down and take a deep breath of the mountain air.

Ah Liang railway bento has a 92 year history and prides itself for serving its pork rib bento as it was served from the beginning. The local vegetables and ingredients use are wholly organic with every effort made to preserve the original flavours. Certainly, judging from the many reviews by local TV variety show hosts and popular artistes posted around the place, Ah Liang railway bento seemed to have garnered a lot of praises.

We were served their signature bento in environmental-friendly packages. For just NT100 (US$3), the bento came with a large chicken drumstick, their signature pork-chop, 1/2 a hard-boiled egg, assorted local stewed and preserved vegetables and pickles accompanied by a bowl of clear vegetable soup.

We completed our meal with the famed local Gao-san tea brewed by the third generation owner. The tea was complimentary from his son, who owned a tea plantation nearby. Over the fragrant tea that left no bitter aftertaste, the owner gave us some friendly advice and tips over tea appreciation.

Tips from Ah Liang:
If you are arriving in large groups, do call ahead for reservations as the place is small.

If you intend to buy Gao-san tea, unless you are a tea connoisseur, you will most likely be cheated as many local tea houses import cheaper tea leaves from China and pass it as local Gao-san tea.

Visit their website Here. However, it is only in Mandarin. Read Less

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on February 18, 2007

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National Scenic Area

Attraction | "Among the Sacred Giants of the Forest"

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Mt Ali or Alishan was a source of cypress logging during the Japanese occupation in the early 19th century. The Alishan Forest railway was built to transport these logs down the mountain. It was designated as the Alishan Forest Recreation area after WWII and is now one of Taiwan’s major attraction. The most popular way of seeing Alishan is via the train. Touted as one of the world’s highest elevation railway, the train climbs to an altitude of 2000m and passes through the changing flora and fauna reflecting 4 climates (from tropical to subtropical...Read More

Mt Ali or Alishan was a source of cypress logging during the Japanese occupation in the early 19th century. The Alishan Forest railway was built to transport these logs down the mountain. It was designated as the Alishan Forest Recreation area after WWII and is now one of Taiwan’s major attraction.

The most popular way of seeing Alishan is via the train. Touted as one of the world’s highest elevation railway, the train climbs to an altitude of 2000m and passes through the changing flora and fauna reflecting 4 climates (from tropical to subtropical) in a zig-zag manner. The journey takes about 4-1/2 hours from Chiayi to Alishan.

There are many trekking trails here of varying degrees of difficulty. The following are recommended for day trippers.

From Alishan Annex to Alishan House:
We took a "shortcut" (about 10 minutes downhill walk) that starts from Jhaoping train station, through the Jhaoping park and the plum garden before ending at the cafe balcony of the Alishan House. This short trail is highly recommended in spring when the alpine flowers are in full bloom.

From Alishan-gou Hotel (about 40 minutes), the Forest Bath trail:
Enter this trail and visitors will be entranced by the cedar and cypress trees that loom overhead. Hikers are encouraged to inhale deeply as they hike through the forest to rid themselves of the stress and tension of everyday life. The path led us to the Sisters pond, the magnolia garden and eventually to the trail of the Giants. We u-turned just before the magnolia garden as we had already trekked the Trail of the Giants earlier. The highlights of this trail: the Sisters pond and the 3 brothers, their story is described here. Look out also for the fascinating tree formations and their equally interesting names like "Forever one" and the "Dragon and Phoenix." Many make perfect picture backgrounds for hikers to pose for souvenir photographs.

From the Sacred Tree station (Senmu):
There are special train services on weekends from Alishan station to the Sacred Tree station (Senmu) for just NT50 1 way. The short journey on a refurbished electrical engine train was enjoyable and perfect for those who are unable and cannot hike the entire length of the trail. It meanders through the mountain flanked by red cypress and fir trees before ending at Senmu, the site of the Sacred tree. This sacred tree is a 3000 year old red cypress which was damaged by an earthquake. The iconic tree now lay at the side of the railway track. Hikers begin the Giant Trees trail in gradual ascent. The highlight are the red cypresses some as old as 2300 years. There are 36 Giants in all spread along the trail and bifurcates into trail 1 and 2. For the tireless, hikers can continue the trail that would eventually lead them back to Jhaoping station and Alishan station via the Forest-bath trail. We chose to conserve our energy and took the train back to Alishan station. Read Less

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on February 18, 2007

National Scenic Area
Alishan
Alishan, Taiwan

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Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Attraction

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Chiang Kai Shek was the first president of modern Taiwan. I remembered him from history lessons of yore as a general of the Nationalist party that busied itself fighting the communists instead of the invading Japanese. They were eventually defeated by the communists and fled to Taiwan where he founded the present KMT party. He was also known for his marriage to one of the 3 beautiful Soong sisters, Song Mei Ling who remained his most loyal and staunch supporter throughout her lifetime.The Chiang Kai-Shek (CKS) Memorial hall...Read More

Chiang Kai Shek was the first president of modern Taiwan. I remembered him from history lessons of yore as a general of the Nationalist party that busied itself fighting the communists instead of the invading Japanese. They were eventually defeated by the communists and fled to Taiwan where he founded the present KMT party. He was also known for his marriage to one of the 3 beautiful Soong sisters, Song Mei Ling who remained his most loyal and staunch supporter throughout her lifetime.

The Chiang Kai-Shek (CKS) Memorial hall was erected in memory of their late leader who died in 1975. With donations from local and overseas Chinese communities, the Memorial Hall was formerly opened in 1980.

Chiang Kai Shek Memorial consists of park, a National theater, a Concert hall and a Memorial hall that showcases the life and ideology of Chiang Kai Shek. In all, the CKS Memorial Hall covers 250000 square meters built in Classical Chinese architecture with emphasis in symbolism and feng shui.

Proceed to the ground floor of the CKS Memorial Hall and grab a free booklet explaining the style and symbolisms of the structure before exploring the place. Be sure to get the memorial stamps at different points of the exhibits (it's fun). For those with children, grab a thematic pamphlet that test the mathematical skills of the child with puzzles derived from the architecture. The ground floor houses the Exhibition hall which contains letters, paintings and photos as well as artifacts belonging to the late president; a study hall, lecture hall, library and 2 art galleries. The upper floor houses a magnificent bronze statue of the late CKS and has a great view of the park.

The exhibits were an eye opener for me for it depicts CKS in a positive light (certainly different from what I had studied prior) and shed some insight of the Chinese relations today. Come here if you are a history buff or simply looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Getting There
Take the MRT red line and get off at CKS Memorial Hall stop, exit no 5.

Opening hours: 9am to 6.30pm

Admission: Free entry Read Less

Member Rating 3 out of 5 on February 19, 2007

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Zhong Shan South Road
Taipei, Taiwan 100
+886 2 2349 1635

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Shihlin Night Market

Attraction | "Shilin Night Market"

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This is the largest and one of the most popular night market in Taipei. It is divided into 2 sections: the Shilin Night Market, which is actually a food court housing countless of hawkers selling yummy snacks and local delights; and the Yang-Ming theater section which stretches around Danan, Dadong and Wenlin road. Lanes are choked full of street vendors and shops hawking the latest fashion apparel and accessories, snacks and local delights, all at very affordable prices. Stroll along the Yang-Ming section first for some retail therapy before hitting the food court where you can rest your legs and tuck in cheap food in comfort. The rain did not deter the crowds from coming to Shilin market...Read More

This is the largest and one of the most popular night market in Taipei. It is divided into 2 sections: the Shilin Night Market, which is actually a food court housing countless of hawkers selling yummy snacks and local delights; and the Yang-Ming theater section which stretches around Danan, Dadong and Wenlin road. Lanes are choked full of street vendors and shops hawking the latest fashion apparel and accessories, snacks and local delights, all at very affordable prices. Stroll along the Yang-Ming section first for some retail therapy before hitting the food court where you can rest your legs and tuck in cheap food in comfort.

The rain did not deter the crowds from coming to Shilin market, certainly, we came (we had to, its reputation for its good and cheap food just cannot be ignored). We followed the crowd made up of mostly students and teens, explored the smaller lanes and found some gems like the famed oyster mee sua (oyster rice noodles), a concoction of thin rice noodles in thick starchy broth topped with oysters (NT100 per bowl), the fragrant bun in bun freshly baked filled with peppery pork filling wrapped in a crusty bun. It certainly sold out quicker than they could bake them. Other gems we came across was a traditional Chinese bakery selling home made bread and pineapple tarts amongst the hip and trendy shops selling Japanese/Korean inspired accessories and clothes.

The food court was just as crowded and stuffy. With a dizzy array of food selection, it took us some time before we could decide what to have for dinner. It soon became apparent to us that there were many stalls selling similar foods so competition for customers were fierce with stall holders holding banners and placards and shouting for attention. We settled for some comfort food, porridge with assorted fillings from a reputed stall (the queue was never ending but the service was quick). If you still have room to spare, try some of the desserts like shaved ice with toppings like red bean, peanuts, corn etc, the ice is shaved so fine, it was almost like eating ice cream.

For those who need to exercise a little after stuffing themselves silly, there is an arcade nearby with traditional games like "Net a goldfish", shooting games, and of course, the usual video games. A mix of nostalgia for the older generation and modern for the young.

Getting there
Take the MRT red line and alight at Jiantan station. The food court is across the station. Read Less

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on February 19, 2007

Shihlin Night Market
Chung Shan North Road, Section 4 Shihlin
Taipei, Taiwan 111
+886 2 2349 1635 (To

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From Sunrise to Sunset: Alishan

Story/Tip

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One of the must see and do for all visitors to Alishan, besides hiking that is; is to get up at the crack of dawn, brave the cold mountain air to view the sun rising above the sea of clouds over the Alishan mountain range. A spectacular sight not to be missed, we were told. There are 2 designated spots for viewing the sunrise in Alishan, one at the DueiGaoYue and the other near Jhusan rail station. The latter is the more accessible of the 2; therefore expect crowds jostling for best spots, especially during peak seasons. Most visitors take the early train to Jhusan station and hike downhill after the sun is up. The train journey takes about 25 minutes in gradual ascent. There is usually only 1...Read More

One of the must see and do for all visitors to Alishan, besides hiking that is; is to get up at the crack of dawn, brave the cold mountain air to view the sun rising above the sea of clouds over the Alishan mountain range. A spectacular sight not to be missed, we were told.

There are 2 designated spots for viewing the sunrise in Alishan, one at the DueiGaoYue and the other near Jhusan rail station. The latter is the more accessible of the 2; therefore expect crowds jostling for best spots, especially during peak seasons. Most visitors take the early train to Jhusan station and hike downhill after the sun is up. The train journey takes about 25 minutes in gradual ascent. There is usually only 1 service but more may be added during peak season. Visitors can check the time of departure the day before at their hotels, the visitor center or at the train stations. The departure time is dependent on the time of sun rise. A round trip ticket costs NT150 while a 1 way ticket, NT100 (half price if you are above 60 years).

The best time for viewing sunrise is from November till February. We were lucky for sunrise was not until 7am, which means we got to sleep a little more. Still, we bundled ourselves and headed for the train station across our cabin ahead of time (kiasuism is in our nature). The train ride was smooth but cold (no heating), fortunately, our carriage was not crowded. There was not much to see in part due to the darkness and the cold had misted the windows. Once we arrived, the crowd literally rushed up the stairs to pick the best spots. There were commentators standing on low step ladders shouting and directing the crowd through megaphones to the viewing platform. Stalls selling hot drinks and breakfast competed for our attention as well. We were a little overwhelmed at the noise and crowd. Certainly it was not what we had anticipated.

All the choice spots had been taken by the time we arrived. I was almost in despair when I spied a small group of Japanese tourists wielding mean cameras and tripods being led up a road by a guide. I followed them and after a 10 minute climb, we arrived at the Pavilion, the designated sunrise viewing lot. It was less crowded and quieter with just 1 Mandarin commentator who was a guide leading a group of students on a field trip but was "extending" his services to everyone within hearing vicinity. He was entertaining and humorous, giving tips on where the sun would appear, how to capture the perfect moment with your camera and to what kind of souvenirs you should buy while in Alishan and for how much. He even passed around locally produced raisins to everyone while we waited with bated breath for that magic moment.

From the pavilion, we were able to see the Tashan ridge as well as the Alishan mountain ranges. When the moment finally arrived, it was not as it should be. The cloud of sea did not quite form while a thick cloud covered the sun, diffusing the light. The sunrise was disappointing and many left disappointed. Still, the views from the pavilion of the Alishan mountain range were breathtaking.

To avoid the crowded train (there was only 1 service back), some chose to trek down the Jhusan trail (about 1 hour hike down) to Jhaoping Station. Follow the road from Jhusan station, cut to the trail midway as it “shortcuts” through the forest and ends just next to the Steam Yarair across the Jhaoping station. What better way to start the day than with an invigorating walk in the cold mountain air followed by a hearty warm breakfast of steam mantou (milk buns), porridge and dumplings.

Less effort is required when viewing sunset. As our taxi-driver informed us on our way up to Alishan, the sunset is usually ignored and under-rated among visitors but it is no less beautiful. Some of the best viewing spots: on the slope leading into the Alishan recreation, the balcony at the Alishan House or at the Annex. The sunset was magnificent. It was a clear day, the sea of clouds had blanketed the valley, the mountain range had turned a golden hue while the sky, a fiery red just as the sun began to disappear into the sea of clouds. It was almost dream-like and picture postcard perfect. Read Less

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Going Marbles at Taroko Gorge

Story/Tip

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If you have time to visit only one nature reserve, then head on to the Taroko National Park. Located in the township of Hualien, approximately 2 hours by train from Taipei, Taroko is considered to be Taiwan’s 8th most beautiful sight to behold. The main attractions in the park are easily accessible by car and can be covered in a day. However, to fully appreciate the magnificence and beauty of Taroko and the surroundings, do try a home stay or splurge at the Grand Farmosa Hotel. The area boasts limestone formations between the late Paleozoic era to the Mesozoic era, florid marble gorges curved by the Liwu River and a wide variety of flora and fauna. We stayed 2 nights at the Taroko Grand Fa...Read More

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Taiwan Journals

Naruwan Taiwan!

Naruwan Taiwan!

Quick Tips:

Best Way To Get Around:

Alishan House

Grand Formosa Taroko, Hualien

Rainbow Hotel

Ah Liang Railway Bento

National Scenic Area

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Shihlin Night Market

From Sunrise to Sunset: Alishan

Going Marbles at Taroko Gorge

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