"Plum blossoms, plum blossoms, when do they bloom? Do they bloom in January?" Many of you are probably familiar with this nursery rhyme. The answer is uncertain, but the blooming period generally occurs between New Year's Day and the Lunar New Year, which is from late December to early February. Since the blooming season of plum blossoms is short, lasting only about a month, people quickly set out to visit areas where plum trees are widely cultivated as soon as they hear that the blossoms are about to appear. Xinyi Township in Nantou County is one of Taiwan's primary plum production areas and a popular destination for viewing plum blossoms.
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◦ The History of Xinyi
The history of Xinyi Township dates back to the Qing Dynasty when the area was known as 'Maopu.' Since the primary inhabitants were the Bunun people, and it was considered an 'outlying aboriginal territory.' During the Japanese colonial period, authorities relocated the indigenous population to the basins of the Chenyoulan and Zhuoshui Rivers, which is the present-day Xinyi Township. After the Republic of China government took over Taiwan, Xinyi Township was officially established as a mountainous township and was initially called 'Lona Township.' In 1946, inspired by the Confucian ideals of the 'Four Cardinal Principles and Eight Virtues,' the name 'Xinyi' was chosen for the township.
◦ Attractions in Xinyi
01｜Tsai Family Plum Garden
A friend who has traveled all over Xinyi Township told me that if she could select only one plum garden from the many, it would undoubtedly be the Tsai Family Plum Garden. This preference is not just because of the stunning snow-white blossoms, but also because of the presence of a unique, traditional old house.
In addition to those who arrive dressed in kimonos for photo shoots, the most touching scene I witnessed was a group of people helping an elderly lady with her hair and makeup. Upon inquiring, I learned that she was fulfilling a lifelong dream—to finally capture a photo amid the plum blossoms, something she had missed the opportunity to do in her youth.
Tsai Family Plum Garden Opening Hours: 0800-1700 No. 33, Taiping Ln., Xinyi Township, Nantou
02｜Wangxiang Village
Perhaps due to it was a weekday, I didn't encounter many people while walking through Wangxiang Village. However, I was captivated by the stories displayed outside each house and enchanted by the charming atmosphere: 'The women of our village are the most famous tug-of-war champions in Xinyi Township.'
Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters, Wangxiang Village provides stunning views, enabling visitors to see as far as Yushan on a clear day. After enduring various challenges, the villagers chose to pursue self-reliance, focusing on community building and village development. Today, it serves as a significant platform for many to experience Bunun culture.
Although Wangxiang Village has gained widespread fame, it maintains an uncommercialized atmosphere. In the marketplace, fruits and vegetables are offered on an honor system, allowing individuals to take what they need. The genuine sincerity, which is often hard to find in the city, can be rediscovered in Wangxiang.
Wangxiang Village Opening Hours: 0800-1700 No. 31, Wanghe Ln., Xinyi Township, Nantou
03｜Dongpu Suspension Bridge
The Dongpu Suspension Bridge, measuring 200 meters in length, was once the highest and longest suspension bridge in Taiwan. Its wooden deck features a hollow design, allowing visitors to feel the energy of the valley beneath their feet. A pair of stone sculptures of wild boars at the entrance, along with friendly dogs greeting visitors, adds to the charm of this bridge.
Since the Dongpu Suspension Bridge is one of the popular attractions in Xinyi Township, you can find several honesty shops selling fruits and vegetables along the way. This left a strong impression on me regarding the trust that the residents of Xinyi Township have in others.
Dongpu Suspension Bridge No. 987, Kaigao Ln., Xinyi Township, Nantou
04｜Plum Dream Factory
I usually do not buy local specialties, but the Plum Dream Factory made me break that rule!
The most vibrant area of the Plum Dream Factory is the candy section. Due to its high quality and reasonable prices, many customers purchase large quantities after just one taste. My personal favorite is the Ultimate Plum Soft Candy. With each bite, you can savor the sweet and sour fragrance of locally grown, premium green plums that have been carefully simmered.
Aside from candy, plum wine and seasonings made from green plums are also popular. Among the Farmers' Association series of stores, the well-planned and uniquely featured Plum Dream Factory certainly ranks at the top!
Plum Dream Factory Opening Hours: 0800-1730 No. 11, Xinkai Ln., Xinyi Township, Nantou
◦ Restaurants and Snacks in Xinyi
01｜Braised Intestine Rice
Located in Tonghe Alley, this Braised Intestine Rice shop may not be an internet-famous eatery, but it is a hidden gem for my friend who visits Xinyi every year to see the plum blossoms.
Their signature braised intestine rice consists of a bowl of braised pork rice accompanied by a plate of braised intestines. Just looking at its glossy color, you can tell how flavorful it is. The sauce is savory, and the pickled vegetables cut through the richness perfectly.
Braised Intestine Rice Opening Hours: 1000-1900 No. 80, Tonghe Ln., Xinyi Township, Nantou
◦ Flying Over Taiwan
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◦ Other Areas in Nantou
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