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What to Eat at Ximending: 40 Best Restaurants, Bubble Tea, Beef Noodle, Cantonese Food and Cafe

29 Mins Read

Ximending, Taipei’s bustling youth district, is a must-visit for any foodie. It is the go-to place to hangout for Taiwanese students. Having spent countless innocent student days in Ximending, we have so much to tell you about this area. Our high school is fortunately walking distance from Ximending. You really cannot blame us for knowing all too well about this area. Continue reading if you want to learn what local Taiwanese eat here. From iconic Taiwanese street eats to trendy international fare, Ximending’s culinary scene really has something to satisfy every craving. We like to start our day with a hearty breakfast at Fong Da Coffee, known for its nutritious and delicious morning sets. For lunch, head to the Wannian Building and savor the flavors of Lao Shandong Homemade Noodles. It is a local favorite awarded the Bib Gourmand award for six consecutive years. In the afternoon, indulge in classic…

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How to go to Cijin Island, Kaohsiung: Attraction, Food and more

19 Mins Read

Craving a relaxing escape from the bustling city of Kaohsiung? Just a short ferry ride away from Kaohsiung’s bustling harbor lies 旗津 (Cijin or Qijin), a charming island retreat offering a delightful escape from the city. This easily accessible island boasts a unique combination of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and of course, mouthwatering seafood. Explore its black sand beaches, delve into its rich past at historical sites, and savor the freshest catches – Cijin Island promises an unforgettable Southern Taiwanese adventure. How to get to Cijin Island From Kaohsiung? Kaohsiung Ferry to Cijin Transportation to Cijin is the first major question that visitors ask when planning their trip. Fortunately, reaching Cijin is a breeze even without a car. Follow these simple steps to seamlessly navigate your way to this island paradise: Hop on the Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and get off at the end of the Orange line Sizihwan Station (O1). Exit from Exit…

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How to Go to Lotus Pond Kaohsiung: Directions and Entrance Fee

12 Mins Read

Want to learn more about Lotus Pond Kaohsiung? Blue Canoe is the place for Taiwan’s best local advice. We are local Taiwanese and have lived here for more than two decades. Let us be your guide to the beautiful Lotus Pond! Lotus Pond, an internationally acclaimed scenic area, even featured by CNN, isn’t your average park. Imagine a tranquil lake dotted with lotus flowers, surrounded by ornate temples whispering tales of ancient traditions. Sounds pretty amazing, right? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the easy ways to reach there and explore the magic of Lotus Pond! How to Get to Lotus Pond Kaohsiung? Source: khh.travel Taking Kaohsiung MRT to Lotus Pond Even though a transfer is involved, this is arguably the most convenient and affordable option! Take the KMRT Red Line and disembark at Zuoying Station. Exit 2 will lead you right where you need to be. A single MRT journey…

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Kaohsiung Pier 2 Art Center: The Only Guide You Need

14 Mins Read

Pier 2 Kaohsiung is great evidence that the city, Taiwan’s southern powerhouse, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once dominated by industrial activity, the city is now embracing its creative side. At the forefront of this artistic renaissance stands the Pier-2 Art Center. This dynamic hub, a vibrant cluster of warehouses and modern installations, breathes new life into Kaohsiung’s waterfront. Intrigued by street art, enthralled by exhibitions, or simply seeking a day of exploration – Pier-2 Art Center offers something for everyone. We invite you to come check out how this area has transformed into one of the local’s favorite place to hang out. Pier 2 Kaohsiung’s History and Transformation Source: khh.travel Pier-2 wasn’t always a canvas for artistic expression. Stand on its shores today, and it’s hard to imagine the industrial clamor that once filled the air. In the past, these very warehouses were the beating heart of Kaohsiung’s port,…

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The Ultimate Guide for Yangmingshan: Hot Spring, Hiking Trails, Restaurants and Itinerary

19 Mins Read

Resource: Yangmingshan National Park Just north of Taipei’s bustling cityscape lies a surprising escape: Yangmingshan National Park. This volcanic playground boasts a dramatic landscape sculpted by fiery eruptions millions of years ago. Dormant giants like Qixing Mountain pierce the sky, while wispy steam rises from fumaroles – vents spewing volcanic gases – hinting at the park’s simmering past. But Yangmingshan isn’t just about geology. It’s a seasonal spectacle for flower enthusiasts. Spring explodes with a mesmerizing display of cherry blossoms, while summer sees hydrangeas paint the hillsides in vibrant hues. Year-round, calla lilies flourish at Zhúlìhú (Bamboo Lake), a serene crater lake surrounded by colorful flower farms. Autumn brings a fiery display of reds and oranges, while winter offers a tranquil escape with mountains veiled in mist. Hikers can explore diverse trails, encountering wildlife and enjoy panoramic vistas. For a more relaxed pace, stroll along Zhúlìhú or the otherworldly Qīngtiān…

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Surfer’s Ultimate Guide to Surfing in Taiwan

12 Mins Read

Taiwan is a vibrant island nation kissed by the Pacific Ocean on all sides. It isn’t just a hotspot for bustling cities and delicious night markets. Beyond the neon lights lies a surfer’s paradise. The island’s unique geography plays a key role to great surfing. With the rugged east coast boasting powerful breaks and the tamer north coast offering gentler waves. This translates to a surfer’s dream come true: a variety of waves perfect for beginners, seasoned riders, and everyone in between. While surfing in Taiwan was once a niche activity, recent years have seen a surge in popularity. With consistent waves, stunning scenery, and a laid-back vibe that blends local charm with a growing international scene, Taiwan is quickly carving its own niche in the global surfing world. Born and raised in Taiwan, we have great understanding of what our home country has to offer. If you want to…

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9 Best Taroko Trails: From Beginner to Advanced

14 Mins Read

Update: In the wake of Taiwan’s powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake on April 3rd, 2024, Taroko National Park has sustained significant damage. Many beloved sites, roads, and trails have been destroyed by the quake. Out of an abundance of caution and respect for ongoing rescue and recovery efforts, we strongly advise against visiting the park at this time. The safety of visitors remains a top priority, and we’ll be sure to provide updates on the park’s reopening as information becomes available. Taroko Gorge National Park is a Taiwanese gem known for its jaw-dropping landscapes. Towering marble cliffs pierce the sky, verdant forests cloak the landscape, and cascading waterfalls serenade the senses. This majestic Taroko mountains isn’t just a feast for the eyes. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting a network taroko trails that cater to every adventurer’s spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast dipping your toes…

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7 Best Gay Bars in Taipei: Your Guide to Taipei’s Rainbow Nightlife

6 Mins Read

In this article, we will introduce 7 of the best Taipei gay bars! The capital city of Taipei is a particularly gay-friendly city. It is home to a large and diverse LGBTQ+ community, and there are many gay bars and clubs in the city. Taiwan has always been a leader for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia. In 2019, Taiwan became the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. Especially, Taipei has been at the forefront of the LGBTQ+ movement in Taiwan. It hosts the annual Taiwan Pride march, the biggest in Asia! The annual Taipei Pride Parade in 2024, which takes place in late October, will be the 22nd parade host in Taipei, Taiwan. Source: Taiwan LGBT Pride As proud Taiwanese ourselves, we have witnessed the rise of LGBTQ+ movement and cannot be more excited about the progress. The moment we turned 18 (the legal age for drinking in Taiwan),…

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Transportation Guide: Taroko Gorge from Taipei, Hualien to Taroko Gorge

18 Mins Read

Update: In the wake of Taiwan’s powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake on April 3rd, 2024, Taroko National Park has sustained significant damage. Many beloved sites, roads, and trails have been destroyed by the quake. Out of an abundance of caution and respect for ongoing rescue and recovery efforts, we strongly advise against visiting the park at this time. The safety of visitors remains a top priority, and we’ll be sure to provide updates on the park’s reopening as information becomes available. Carved by the Liwu River, Taroko National Park is a majestic wonderland in Taiwan. Imagine towering marble cliffs etched by a relentless river, vibrant ecosystems teeming with life, and hidden waterfalls cascading down emerald slopes. This captivating scene isn’t a figment of your imagination; it’s the breathtaking reality of Taroko National Park in Taiwan. Hikers flock here to conquer the legendary Taroko trails and Taroko mountains. Sightseers come to marvel…

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Explore Beautiful Cherry Blossom in Alishan Region 2025

11 Mins Read

Every year, from March to April, Alishan, a renowned mountainous region in Taiwan, comes alive with the delicate hues of cherry blossom. The journey from the foothills to the mountaintop is a mesmerizing experience, with each kilometer offering a unique and breathtaking view. Alishan boasts a diverse range of cherry blossom varieties, with the Yoshino cherry being the most abundant. As March unfolds, these blossoms announce the arrival of spring, followed by a cascade of Taiwan mountain cherry, double-flowered cherry, cold mountain cherry, Fuji cherry, and peony cherry, creating a sea of pink that captivates the senses. Enhancing the charm of cherry blossoms viewing in Alishan is the presence of Japanese-style architecture. Whether you choose to enjoy a cup of tea under the cherry blossom trees or stroll through the high mountain tea plantations while admiring the panoramic views, every moment is infused with a sense of tranquility and beauty.…

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