Northern Taiwan

Queens Head Rock at Yehliu Taiwan

January 29, 2019 by Exploretraveler.com 3 Comments

Queens Head Rock at Yehliu Taiwan

Queens Head Rock is an amazing natural wonder in Yehliu, Taiwan. Queens Head Rock was naturally sculptured by nature. What a fabulous job nature does! Yehliu Geopark is a major attraction in Northern Taiwan. People come from all over the world to see Queens Head and the others. There are many geological formations that stretch along the beach and out into the cape. One of these is the Queen of the cape! She is Queens Head (女王頭)! It goes without saying, the Queen is here.

Yehliu Geopark is located near the town of Wanli, Taiwan. Wanli is about half-way between Taipei and Keelung. The Geopark is considered rural, but it is worth any effort you invest in getting there. It is home to many natural and unique geological formations. No sculptor does work any better than the wind and the rain! Yeldiu Geopark is the place to explore if you like to see the rare and unique wonders of Taiwan!

Yehliu Geopark is a world-famous geological wonder. There are many named rocks in the park, but Queens Head is the most famous. These intriguing and unique rock formations are composed of sandstone and shale. Over time, they have been sculpted by nature’s hand. The pounding of the wind and water has created this impressive gallery of magnificent rock formations. So who is the hero in this story? It is the cutting edge of the wind and the water! Their work is magnificent!

If you are looking for adventure, you will find it in Yehliu Geopark. The park is over a mile long and there are many famous rock formations. Some are on the sand, and others jet out into the water. You can spend hours discovering all the different unique forms. No two are alike! As they are battered by the wind and rain, they are constantly changing. If you look closely, you will see their personalities. Among the other geological treasures are the Sea Candles (燭台石), These rocks look like candles in the sea. What an amazing sight they are! Are they lighting the way to Queens Head? After all, she is the Queen!

Have you ever seen an elephant in Taiwan? No, probably not, as this is an island nation. Take a walk and you will discover Elephant Rock! Maybe not the real thing, but the resemblance is certainly there. What an adventure!

Every Queen needs a court. Be sure to check out Princess’ Head. She is another outstanding sculpture! She is beautiful as she waits for her Queen. She stands so poised and beautiful! She is another one of natures beautiful rock formations. Can any sculptor do any better than the wind and the rain?

As you are making your Taiwan travel plans, be sure to discover Northern Taiwan. Northern Taiwan is completely different from the other parts of the island. The rocky shoreline is magnificent! Adventure is everywhere! Here in the North, you will find Yehliu Geopark and Queens Head. One look at her and you will know….. why she is the Queen!

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Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge Taitung, Taiwan

The Night Lights Of Hsinchu City

February 20, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

THE NIGHT LIGHTS OF HSINCHU CITY, TAIWAN

Hsinchu city (Chinese: 新竹市) is a lively small city in the Northern part of Taiwan. It has the distinction of being Northern Taiwan’s oldest city. It was first occupied by an aboriginal tribe called the Taokas. It is often called, the Windy City, for it’s windy weather. The wind tends to gust off the Strait of Taiwan all day and all night. It can make it quite cold in the winter time, especially around the time of Chinese New Year. However, the wind makes the summers quite pleasant. It is a fun city to explore day or night. The signs for each shop are big and a lot of color is used. It is beautiful at night when all the signs are lit up. It is a peaceful and respectful city making exploration at night a fun activity.

For an exciting night market experience, be sure to visit Hsinchu City God (Cheng Huang) Temple. Hsinchu City God Temple can be found on the corner of Zhongshan Rd and Dougmen St. This is the senior ranking temple among all the Taiwan City God temples. This historical temple was finished in 1748 and is renounded for it’s two story ornate building. The many small eateries have some of Taiwan’s old time favorite little eats. You will encounter many types of incense and many Taiwanese little eats in the front of the temple. Here you will find Taiwanese Spring Rolls, Steamed cakes, Pork Meatballs, and many more special treats of Taiwan. This night market really forms a very bright and exciting scene. The temple has a very distinctive and beautiful arched entryway. Entering, you will notice that the inner walls are filled with magnificent wall-paintings that have been painted over the ages. Hsinchu City God Temple is the perfect adventure for a night of culture and fun.

Hsinchu City until 1902 was a walled city with four beautiful gates. Yi Suang to the West, Ying Xi in the East, Gexum on the Southern side, and Gongcheng in the North. Three of the gates to the city were destroyed in 1902 when the Japanese built a new road system. Only the beautiful YingXi in the East is still standing. She is amazing to see at night when all lit up. Ying Xi is considered the “Mother of Hsinchu”, protecting all the people from harm. This is a very unique and famous landmark in Hsinchu City. A trip to see the East Gate at night is a must for every visitor to this old city.

Houzhan Tourism Night Market (Hsinchu) is a typical Taiwanese Night Market. You will find everything there that is at all night markets throughout the island. It is located very close to the train station and the new bus station, making it convenient for the adventure traveler.

Hsinchu City has a vivid and dazzling night life with everything from local eateries to large restaurants and bars. Take a few minutes and just walk along the streets of downtown and you will discover many hidden gems. So while in Hsinchu, Taiwan, enjoy all the activities of the day, but don’t sell the night short. There is lots to do in Hsinchu City, Taiwan.

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Published on steemit.com@exploretraveler Feb. 21, 2017 at:

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Beitou Thermal Valley In NorthernTaiwan

October 23, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Beitou Thermal Valley In Northern Taiwan

Beitou Thermal Valley is a Northern Taiwan Jewel. It is a pearl of delight. It is a rare gem found in Taipei. This geothermal valley is a volcanic crater that is filled with piping hot natural sulfuric spring water. This rare mineral content causes the water to be a beautiful shade of jade green. Locals sometimes call it Jade Springs Valley, because it is one of the greenest valleys in the world. The different colors of green are amazing! This rare combination of minerals can only be found in one other location worldwide. These same beautiful green waters can also be found in Akita, Japan. Beitou Thermal Valley is filled with lush green vegetation and healing green sulfuric spring water. What beauty can be found in the Beitou Thermal Valley.

Those that love to bathe in natural hot springs are probably thinking that they are bound for some healing bathe waters. Not so! The water can get up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Unfortunately, this renders the hot springs itself unsuitable for bathing. However, further away from the spring, bathhouses have been built and the water-cooled to a suitable temperature for a fantastic bathing experience.

This sulfuric water is believed to be quite healing to the skin. People with all types of skin problems have come here to jump-start a cure. The water is considered almost miraculous! It is a healing experience for many with dry and unhealthy skin.

Depending on the wind, the steam comes up from the water and engulfs you in thick sulfuric steam. This is how the Beitou Thermal Valley got its other name, Hell Valley. This beautiful valley can be so engulfed in this thick steam, that some feel like you can hardly breathe. However, the steam can be quite healing to the lungs. The steam makes for a spectacular photo event. The sulfuric steam is also very healing to the skin of those who are surrounded by this piping hot vapor. It is a beautiful valley! It is relaxing! It is healing!

Beitou Thermal Valley would seem to have a very hot source of heat below the earth. Unfortunately, it is no longer hot enough to sustain future volcanic activity. The days of this beautiful thermal valley are quickly coming to an end. This is perhaps one of the best reasons to make this the year you plan a Beitou Thermal Valley Adventure. Don’t wait till this becomes modern-day history.

Beitou Thermal Valley is actually located in Taipei, Taiwan. It is an amazing valley and you have not even left Taipei. This makes it very easy to get there via the MRT. You can sit back and enjoy the train ride. In less than an hour, you will be in this amazing valley. You have left the bustle of the city! The noise of this mega city is gone. But you are still in the greater Taipei area. Beitou Thermal Valley is a Taipei City Adventure.

Less than an hour from the city center of Taipei will find you soaking in rare sulfuric hot springs. It is surrounded by a lush green park. There are bubbling springs. Beautiful bridges and countless walking paths grace the park. The park has every shade of green that you can imagine. This is an adventure in Taiwan and Japanese history. What a way to relax!

Beitou Thermal Valley was a haven for the Japanese during their occupation of Taiwan. Parks, bridges, and walking paths were built. The springs emitted a sulfuric aroma. It would heal your lungs as you took long walks in the city. The Japanese opened countless hot spring bathhouses throughout the area. Beitou Park was the perfect place to enjoy a day in nature.

After the Japanese occupation came to an end, this park was neglected until the 1990s. At this time, Taipei City decided to renovate the old Japanese structures. They began to restore the beauty of the area. It is now a beautiful place to spend the day. Experience tranquility and peace. Relax from the rat race of the city. Go for a relaxing walk. Sit by the stream. There are beautiful paths, bubbly steams, and awesome bathe houses. All this within an easy train commute.

Any day is the perfect day to explore Beitou Thermal Valley. The bath houses are inexpensive. The water is amazing! The air is fresh. The park is peaceful. Beitou Thermal valley is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Breath the fresh air. Take long healthy walks. Enjoy one of the natures rare hot springs. Make today the day, for a Beitou Thermal Valley Adventure.

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This was published on steemit.com@exploretraveler.com , Oct 22, 2017 at:

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Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge Taitung, Taiwan

Yehliu Geological Park In Northern Taiwan

May 9, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Weathered Sandstone In Yehliu Geological Park

Yehliu Geological Park is a geological wonderland. Weathered sandstone is so artistic, that you can ponder who was the great artist. At the stroke of the brush, nature created this amazing area. You will find it near the seashore of Northern Taiwan. Wind, water, waves, and the shifting of the geological plates under the earth, designed a masterpiece in time. What a geological landscape! It is amazing! Nothing in the world is like Yehliu Geological Park. Here you will see Ginger Rocks and Mushroom Rocks. The amazing Queens Head has become a symbol of Taiwan. It is the unofficial emblem of Wanli. Other curious and rare formations are Fairy Shoe, the Beehive, and the Sea Candles. Yehliu Geological Park is rare and priceless. It is stunning! The only limit to adventure is your own imagination.

Influences On Yehliu Geological Park

Among the famous rocks found in the Yehliu Geological Park, are the “Ginger Rocks. ” Laced among the weathered sandstone, are these rare and exquisite Rocks. Yehliu Geological Park has millions of these extraordinary formations. “Ginger Rock” is nothing more than rocks which appear to be pieces of ginger. How amazing it is to see these extremely rare geological shapes. They are influenced by the waves of the ocean and the natural weathering of the rock. Each movement of the earth is precise. It brings forth treasure. Formations such as the “Sea Candles” are formed as the plates of the earth move and cause friction. How rare Yehliu Geological Park is! The weathered sandstone is remarkable. The rock formations are phenomenal. What a unique geological landscape. Adventure is at every corner of the park. Excitement is in the air. Take a picture! Go for a hike! Name the nameless! Weave a story!

Three Distinct Areas In The Park

The first area of the park is packed with rare and amazing Mushroom and Ginger Rock. The extraordinary Ice Cream Rock and Candle Rocks are also present among the weathered sandstone. Yehliu Geological Park is full of staggering discoveries in this first area. Gaze at the shapes! Begin to discover! Name the un-renowned. The fun begins with the imagination.

The second area of the park is also centered around Ginger and Mushroom Rocks. Though they are not as prevalent. Here you will discover Queen’s Head, Dragon’s Head, and many others waiting for names. Take a picture! Choose a name! Weave a story! Also in this area, you will find Fairy’s Shoe and Elephant Rocks. Earth Rock and Peanut Rock round out the area. What fun! Take a hike! Enjoy the results of many years of corrosion.

The third area is the wave-cut platform. It is on the other side of Yehliu Geological Park. It is nestled in among the steep and treacherous cliffs. This area is at the seashore, where the waves can be wicked. The Torrential waves have formed amazing shapes. Some are grotesque and others magical. When entering this area, read the guide-book and follow the guidelines for a safe and pleasant visit. Discover such shapes as Pearl Rock, Marine Bird Rock, and Piety Hill. Yehliu Geological Park is exciting!

Yehliu Geological Park

No.167-1, Kantung Rd., Yehliu Village, Wanli District, New Taipei City 20744, Taiwan, R.O.C.

Open daily from 07:30 to 17:00 all year round.

Phone：886-2-24922016

info@ylgeopark.org.tw

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Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge Taitung, Taiwan

Hsinchu City Taiwan

December 4, 2014 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

HSINCHU CITY TAIWAN

Welcome to Hsinchu City Taiwan, “the city of New Bamboo”. Cooling breezes coming off the Strait of Taiwan keep the windy city cool and pleasant most of the year. Hsinchu Taiwan is off the main tourist map making it a delightful discovery for the deserning traveler. Hsinchu City Taiwan is over 400 years old and is the oldest city in Northern Taiwan. Chuchang, as it was originally called, was named and inhabited by the Aboriginal Tribe of Taokas. Today, only a small group identify as ethnic Taokas. Most of those who identify as Taokas live around the city of Puli in central Taiwan. The name of the city was changed to Hsinchu during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty. Because of it’s rich history, Hsinchu City Taiwan is the perfect home base when visiting northern Taiwan. Those who desire to know and understand the dynasties that ruled the island will find many museums and national historical sites throughout the City of Hsinchu.

Public transportation in the city of Hsinchu is efficient and regular. Buses and scooters are the primary means of getting around Hsinchu. Bright and colorful buses have regular routes throughout the city and the surrounding area. Most of the major tourist sites can be reached by the How-Tai Bus Company . The buses run frequently and are the easiest and most economical way to enjoy the city.

Eighteen Peaks Mountain is a delightful park and dates back to the Japanese Colonial Times. The park is a thick forest that has 18 mountain peaks. Wide paved paths make walking easy and the park is a favorite recreational spot. Take a deep breath and smell the fragrance of the many flowers and shrubs. The east entrance is best reached by buses 1, 1A, 2, 5 or 31. Route 20 will take you to the western entrance of the park.

Hsinchu Botanical Garden has over 300 species of plants. Enjoy discovering the many plants of Taiwan and the secrets that surround them. Learn about the Acacia, the eucalyptus, and the Ceylon olive and their many uses. As a bonus, the Hsinchu Zoo is a 5 minute walk from the garden entrance. This area can be accessed by most of the buses of the city. A short walk takes you to the City God Temple, one of the famous temples in the city. The East Gate Historical Site is also in this area. Constructed from granite with a magnificent arch entrance, this historical wall dates back to the time of the later Qing Dynasty.

These are just a few of the fantastic sites in Hsinchu City Taiwan. Check out the links at the bottom of the page for areas of interest and local accommodations. Discover the many eateries and restaurants that call Hsinchu City Taiwan home. While there check out the fantastic buffet at the Ambassador Hotel. The variety is unbelievable and the food is some of the best on the island. Let this be the year that you discover the hidden gems of northern Taiwan.Hsinchu City Taiwan is fun, historical, and unique. Come explore with us, this year in Taiwan.

http://www.agoda.com/hotels-near-hsinchu-botanical-garden/attractions/hsinchu-tw.html?asq=uHkBExc2FvTAAUZ3peH5qmL2GX1HlTqCEANUQm04KcBDeK%2bpP2bz1ynJbNpPcWJxdpxUvo1CdF1A09TFUSRJTybZ3V%2bbhAqvavfgp1WNQc6S7bD%2b8TQLviRrQwFI22rG

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g297906-Hsinchu-Vacations.html

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