Every summer, I find myself drawn to the mountains. When the city becomes hot and stuffy, the cool, refreshing air of mountain towns instantly revitalizes me. Among them, Puli is my top choice for a summer retreat. But Puli is more than just a beautiful town with a stable climate—it’s also a place where locals are dedicated to preserving traditional crafts and culture. Its richness and depth always make me want to stay a few extra days.
臺灣丨TAIWAN
While taking a stroll around Lover’s Lake Park, I stumbled upon a cozy-looking multi-purpose art and culture space. Inside, a few wooden tables and chairs with a warm, natural texture caught my eye. As I admired the space, the founder started sharing her journey—how she return to her hometown and used cross-industry collaboration to drive local revitalization.
“She must really love this place.”
Her passion for Keelung was evident in the way she spoke, and it made me see this land in a whole new light.
Penghu ◦ Magong | Not Just Fireworks! Unlocking the Beauty and Deliciousness of Magong | TAIWAN 368-40
Penghu International Fireworks Festival is back this May! This year marks the 75th anniversary of Peanuts, and Snoopy, along with his beloved comic strip friends, will light up the night sky over Magong! With dazzling fireworks and a spectacular drone show, get ready for a brand-new surprise! But beyond the breathtaking display, what keeps me coming back to Penghu is the gentle sea breeze, the tranquil harbor, and the rich local culture.
As I stepped out of Yilan Station, a sense of freshness greeted me. The whimsical illustrations and giraffe motifs inspired by Jimmy Liao’s picture books on the station’s façade seemed to warmly welcome travelers. These charming details immediately lifted my spirits, filling me with excitement to embark on a journey to explore the Lanyang Plain. Yilan, the administrative hub of Yilan County, also radiates a strong cultural and educational vibe.
Annan District, located in the southwest of Taina, blends natural and cultural landscapes and boasts rich historical heritage. For nature lovers, the Sicao Mangrove Green Tunnel is an irresistible attraction. Known as the "mini Amazon of Taiwan," visitors can take a bamboo raft through the mangroves, getting up close with mudskippers and fiddler crabs.
“Did you know that Yijhu is not only known for its corn but also for producing PhDs?”
“PhDs? What kind of PhDs?”
This was part of a casual conversation I had with a local resident upon arriving at Yijhu Station. At first, I was baffled, unable to process what he meant. All I could gather was the proud look on his face, clearly brimming with pride for his hometown.