Located in Dali, Taichung, Pusasi is a very special kind of Buddhist temple. There is none of the solemn grandeur traditionally associated with temples, nor the thick clouds of incense that often fill the air. Instead, visitors are greeted by an old plum tree, large rocks, a pond, and climbing vines at the entrance. With fewer preconceived notions comes more room for imagination and possibilities.
中部丨MIDLAND
I remember that when I was graduating from high school and preparing for university entrance exams, a close friend made a special trip to Taichung to take a local train—just to collect a commemorative ticket that read “Zhuifen–Chenggong” (which sounds like “pursuing success” in Chinese) and wish me good luck.
It had been a while since I last explored Changhua properly. This time, visiting with friends, we were instantly drawn in by the historic sites and local snacks around Yuanlin Station the moment we stepped off the train. This old town, with over three hundred years of history, only grew more captivating the deeper I wandered.
It’s Christmas Eve—wishing everyone a Merry Christmas! Among all the bald cypress groves I’ve visited across northern, central, and southern Taiwan, none capture the festive spirit quite like the one in Sanwan! The water reflects the trees as they shift from lush green to fiery orange-red, while the bare, silver-white branches left behind after the leaves fall add a touch of enchantment to the scene. As the cypress season nears its end, I highly recommend a trip to Sanwan to experience its unique sense of romance.
If it weren’t for my determination to visit all 368 towns and townships of Taiwan, I probably would have never made my way to Xianxi along the coastal route. Riding my scooter, I felt the desolation of the journey, yet at certain turns, I would stumble upon cultural scenes rarely found elsewhere. I think it is precisely these fleeting, precious moments that keep me going.
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.
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.
