From May until around the Mid-Autumn Festival is the prime season when oysters are at their fullest, juiciest, and most irresistibly sweet. In other words, right now is the best time to savor them at their finest. Dongshih in Chiayi, protected by the natural barrier of Waisanding Sandbar, is not only the largest oyster-producing area in Taiwan but is also renowned nationwide for its exceptional quality.
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Changhua ◦ Puxin | Exploring Historic Houses, Savoring Grapes, and Unearthing Hidden Gems in the Countryside | TAIWAN 368-48
When traveling in Taiwan, I have a particular fondness for small rural villages near major towns—places that are peaceful yet rich in local life. Puxin, located next to Yuanlin, is exactly that kind of place. In Puxin, you can explore historic houses, taste freshly harvested grapes, and soak in the warm afternoon sun. These simple yet fulfilling moments are what I cherish the most.
TAIWAN 368-47 | New Taipei City ◦ Gongliao | Fulong International Sand Sculpture Art Festival
Located in Gongliao, on the easternmost tip of Taiwan’s main island, lies a stunning 30-kilometer stretch of winding coastline. With its rugged terrain and diverse natural scenery, the area is home to popular attractions such as Fulong Beach, Sandiaojiao Lighthouse, and the Old Caoling Tunnel. Each summer, families flock here for the annual Fulong International Sand Sculpture Art Festival, making it a favorite seasonal event for both locals and tourists.
On Saturday, September 6, the annual religious event “Hengchun Chiang Ku Festival” will take place. This year, 17 teams will compete for the championship banner!
When people think of Hengchun, the first things that come to mind are usually the overpriced stalls of Kenting Night Market, the iconic Eluanbi Lighthouse, or the breathtaking Kenting National Park. But beyond its tourist-heavy reputation, Hengchun has a hidden side—one that many have never witnessed firsthand: The “Chiang Ku” (Pole-Climbing) Competition—a jaw-dropping, high-stakes event that blends faith, courage, and ancient techniques, only performed once a year during the Ghost Festival.
From Temple No. 66, Unpen-ji, to Temple No. 88, Ōkubo-ji, there are 23 temples located within Kagawa Prefecture. As the final leg of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, Kagawa symbolizes the journey of a pilgrim who, after enduring hardships and overcoming inner struggles, finally reaches a state of spiritual freedom, fulfillment, and peace.
