My wife and I have five kids. Two of them are Americans, two are Taiwanese, one is half and half. The American sons (and my mom) are arriving Sunday night and will stay with us for three weeks.
We’ve got a trip to Hualien all worked out, and I know a fair number of places to take them to in Northern Taiwan, but I wondered what you guys thought as well.
These guys are inquisitive, easy-going, very athletic, ages 15 and 17 (I know, it’s a miracle they’re able to be decent humans at these ages, but they really are). Mom is pretty much game for anything. She’s 65, in great shape.
Where would you take them, aside from the usual haunts (i.e., CKS and SYS Memorials, Taipei 101, Wufenpu, Shilin, Gugong, Yangmingshan, Bitan, Yilan)? They want to learn as much as they can about Taiwan while they are here, and they’re up for just about anything. I’m particularly interested in cool places in Taipei you normally wouldn’t think of, and places that are within a day’s drive of Taipei.
River trace up the Jiajiuliao Stream in Wulai. Always a fun adventrue and some amazing natural slides the boys will love (taking 6m slides down smooth rock into a natural pool).
Cycle: when in hualien rent bikes and ride up the mugua gorge. It’s like a wilder version of Taroko. Very popular in summer with cyclists so get up early as they have a daily limit.
Mataian. Aboriginal wetland area. There is a well known cafe there with dishes you have never heard of. fantastic food.
Sounds funny but the yellow butterfly valley in Meinong. In a few weeks it will be swarming. I’m talking tens of thousands of butterflies in a small area. It’s hard not to be impressed even a hormonal teen with a grumpy attitude.
Wuliao Jian or Huang Didian hikes. Great thrilling ridge walks with some scary narrow sections. Best day hikes in taiwan.
I’ll think of more later. And hey, why not browse a guidebook.
Would they be interested in laser tag or paintball or making pottery in YingGe? Shrimp fishing? Don’t forget night markets, of course. And check the calendar or ask around to see if there are any temples which will give their gods a walkabout while the boys are here – that’s always memorable.
I’ll be back around July 20th. Would be happy to show you guys the route if you are still around. Also, if you are in Hualien there is a fantastic river trace up to the Golden Canyon. It’s led by the aboriginals in Sanzhan so you won’t get lost. Very cool route up a deep canyon to some amazing marble walled pools. I can give you the number to call if you are interested.
The Mugua corridor can be driven as well (it’s not a crowded riding environment as they only let 300 people in and the road goes on for dozens of miles). If you have the last LP the road is in there as well as directions to a couple gorgeous marble walled pools to swim in.
Hike up Qixingshan at night
The four beasts
Cycling around Pinglin
Taking a drive over the north cross and a few wild hot springs
Rock climbing/snorkeling at Longdong
River tracing is a must, it is incredibly hot down there at the minute. Shapodang 砂婆礑溪 is a good option. You can do it in half a day, and you are in the river climbing straight away.
Don’t forget night markets, of course. And check the calendar or ask around to see if there are any temples which will give their gods a walkabout while the boys are here – that’s always memorable.