第一次聽說屏東內埔的年度盛事「韓愈文化祭」，心中不免產生疑惑。
韓愈雖然是位家喻戶曉的文學家與教育家，但他與時空背景截然不同又遠在天邊的內埔有什麼關係？
每年九月到隔年五月，在盛夏幾乎絕跡的仙后水母（又稱倒立水母），會在林園海洋濕地公園大爆發。
林園是臺灣本島唯一能看到水母「倒立」的地方，這也成為我來林園的最大動力。
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.
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.
Although it's not a typical tourist attraction and is somewhat remote, Shinyuan Township has a charm that keeps drawing me back. On one side, there’s the local legend of a mischievous carp spirit; on the other, the divine miracle of Mazu controlling the waters. These captivating stories, quietly brewing in the depths of this land, have become my reason for returning time and time again.
When I discussed my travel plans with a friend who lives in Nanzih, his first reaction was, “What’s there to do in Nanzih?” After visiting, I found that Nanzih is a comfortable and laid-back town. It boasts wetlands where you can breathe fresh air, historic houses that evoke memories of the past, and vibrant evening and night markets full of delicious food and great finds. Honestly, what could be more important than living well?
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.
Located in the northeastern part of Kaohsiung, Neimen is renowned for its religious culture and traditional folk arts. It is the birthplace of the famous Neimen Song Jiang Battle Ritual and a top destination for experiencing the culinary artistry of master chefs. As I traveled along Provincial Highway 3 toward Neimen, I noticed numerous temples along the way. It’s easy to see just how deeply religious faith is woven into the lives of the local residents.
Houbi, known as the hometown of Taiwan's champion rice, is also one of the venues for the International Orchid Show. The idyllic landscapes, painted by rice fields, and the tranquil, laid-back rural culture have attracted many film crews to shoot here. The 2004 documentary Let It Be propelled Houbi to fame, establishing it as one of Taiwan's most iconic small towns. The drama The Making of an Ordinary Woman further introduced audiences to the enduring charm of Jingliao Old Street, sparking yet another wave of enthusiastic visitors. Both the countryside and the old streets, when infused with culture and art, take on a fresh perspective and evoke a renewed appreciation.
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