Shanghai Daily

A 2-day, fun-packed, whirlwind tour of Taiwan

- Cindy Jiang

Taiwan has long been a favorite destinatio­n among people around the world. The island has a rich and diverse cultural charm and is also a foodie paradise. The north and middle part of Taiwan has its capital city and many popular destinatio­ns of culture, food and city beats. Let’s rock the road and start our 48-hour journey. has a great view of the sea. The taro balls are handmade from taro or sweet potato powder to keep their bouncy and smoothie texture. They go through 16 procedures including steaming, twisting and stirring, and then they are put in a red bean soup. You can choose warm or iced flavor.

Besides, the fish ball soup, tea eggs, rice cake, fermented bean curd, chicken rolls and roasted potatoes are good choices too.

4-5pm

Walking down from the moutain, you will find the first theater in Jiufen, Shengping Theater, which was set up in 1914 and is in a Baroque style. You can check the program lists including movies, Taiwanese opera and puppetry. The square in front of the theater used to be surrounded with the restaurant­s, ice cream stalls and commodity shops.

5-8pm

When you feel tired, the A Mei teahouse is an ideal place to rest. It was originally a blacksmith shop run by A Mei’s grandfathe­r and then transforme­d into a teahouse. The exterior of the teahouse is wrapped up by wooden walls to maintain the original flavor of Jiufen. Recommende­d is the specially brewed osthumus wine and some homemade tea snacks.

One of the most famous dessert and gift shops is Miyahara. Started by Takekuma Miyahara, this historic building used to be an eye hospital and is 91 years old. The banner of the building has 20 characters exhibiting the skill and style of Cochin, the display wall artwork incorporat­es the Taiwanese plum flower and even the ceiling design about the book tower presents the Chinese symbol for “twice-blessed,” using a paper cut.

You can choose from 18 ice cream flavors made from Taiwan’s local fruit, including native mango, lychee and grape. You can also try brown sugar, ginger and oolong tea flavors. The toppings are free and choices include peanuts, almond balls, native pineapple cake, cheese cake and fresh fruits. You can also buy nice packed gifts like sun cake, honey rice cake, floral cake and nougats. They are packed into books, vinyl records and jewelry casket. Address: 41 Fulong St, Gongliao District, New Taipei City

Tel: 02-2499-1188 Address: 266 Jianguo Rd S., Da’an District, Taipei City

Tel: 02-2701-9266

 ??  ?? Fulong beach in northern Taiwan offers water sports, beach volleyball, barbecue and beach motorcycle­s.
Fulong beach in northern Taiwan offers water sports, beach volleyball, barbecue and beach motorcycle­s.
 ??  ?? The Sand Sculpture Festival
The Sand Sculpture Festival

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