Taichung, Chiayi, Alishan, Taipei

Taichung

Picked up a car upon arrival. After parking near a breakfast spot we found online, we saw this authentic-looking breakfast place and decided to have it instead!

Next destination: Taian Police Station (first police station I’ve heard of that’s a tourist attraction?)

The disappointing Gaomei wetlands was next (partly because of the foggy weather?). Some outlet shopping at Mitsui outlets beforehand, and the day is saved by good dinner at WuQi Fishing port. Finally there was supper at Yizhong night market.

Chiayi

A nice drive in between Taichung and Chiayi, followed by a not-so-nice drive in Chiayi’s tiny roads. Douhua was nice at a random shop near the parking lot (a commonly occurring theme), and Hinoki Village was not what we expected, but at least it’s a central place for shopping/souvenirs. Dinner was at Wenhua night market.

Alishan

A super packed day. First had to coordinating with the hotel for a 5 minute luggage drop at the bus stop. Fen Ci Hu Old Street was the first destination, and a drama filled quest to get the “famous” donuts:

1. More famous shop was closed.
2. Long queue for it, with people in front ordering in 10s
3. Sudden power outage (also the reason why many shops weren’t open in the area that day).
4. Ordering for later pick up with the silent uncle.
5. Getting our donuts just 5 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive (though it was actually made already and just sitting there by the uncle).

The Alishan forest recreational area was a really nice area. Would have loved to spend more time there, maybe in a future trip?

Back to the hotel afterwards, with an unexpected fancy dinner (thankfully it was pretty good!), awesome hot soaking pool, disappointing sunrise, and great (albeit a bit rushed) breakfast.

Shi Zhuo Sakura Trail the next morning. Tiring climb to get there, but really enjoyed the trail and it compares very favorably with some of my favorite Hanami spots in Japan. Really glad to catch the falling petals.

Taipei

Back to the city. The customary Xi Men Ding visit (this time with umbrella adventures). Enjoyed the far flung Tamsui (seems like there have been recent developments?), though the Fisherman Wharf was a massive disappointment (should have probably tried Bali instead). Ningxia night market was so crowded: will go to other night markets instead next time!