Happy Lantern Festival! On this special day, when the Shang Yuan Heavenly Official bestows blessings, various festive events are held throughout Taiwan. Among the most famous are "Sky Lanterns in the North, Beehive Fireworks in the South, Handan in the East, and Turtle Granting Contest in the West." In particular, the "Handan in the East," which involves throwing firecrackers at Lord Handan, is celebrated in full excitement in downtown Taitung!
As we entered the vibrant area of Lucao Township, we were surrounded by art installations featuring deer. My friend and I couldn't help but exclaim in unison, "Lucao is just too adorable!"
Unless there is heavy rain, it is quite rare to see the sky in Pingxi without sky lanterns. As I watch the lanterns slowly rise into the air, with mountains visible in the distance, I can't help but wonder: won't this lead to the tragedy of a forest fire? However, it is precisely because Pingxi is surrounded by mountains that the lanterns cannot fly out of the area. Additionally, with an average humidity of 75-80%, Pingxi is the only place in Taiwan where releasing sky lanterns is legally permitted. This unique environment has also allowed Pingxi to develop local characteristics that are unlike any other township.
梅花、梅花幾月開？一月開不開？
Longci, situated southeast of Tainan, is nestled in the hilly region at the southern end of the Alishan Mountain Range, with elevations ranging from 80 to 350 meters. This varied terrain has fostered a diverse array of natural landscapes. The prevalence of mudstone in the area has led to significant erosion from rainwater and streams, resulting in a distinctive badland terrain known as the barren "Moon World." As a result, many residents have moved away, leaving only around 3,000 people, making it the least populated administrative district in Tainan.
Xinyi District is situated in the heart of Keelung City and is home to numerous administrative offices and educational institutions, including the prestigious Keelung Girls' Senior High School. This has contributed to the district's reputation as a cultural district. In comparison to other areas in Keelung, Xinyi District boasts fewer tourist attractions, which enhances its connection to everyday life through its vibrant traditional markets and residential communities that prioritize quality of life. If given the opportunity to live in Keelung, Xinyi District would undoubtedly be my first choice!
Adjacent to Tainan, Cieding is a coastal town renowned for its exceptional offshore fishing grounds and a well-developed harbor constructed from a lagoon. Many residents depend on nearshore fishing for their livelihoods. The highest recorded mullet catch in Taiwan was achieved at Xingda Harbor in Cieding. During the winter mullet season, the streets are often lined with golden mullet roe being sun-dried, signifying the "golden season" for local fishermen.
While I was looking up some information about local shops, I stumbled upon an article titled “Ten Traits of People from Zhongli You Need to Know.” Three points made me laugh out loud because they perfectly captured how I feel about the people from Zhongli: “Wherever they go, they proudly declare they are from Zhongli!”
Yuanli Township is situated in the southwestern region of Miaoli, bordered to the north by Tongxiao, to the west by the Taiwan Strait, to the east by Huoyan Mountain, and to the south by the Da'an River. It is one of the earliest developed areas in Miaoli. Known as the "Granary of Miaoli," Yuanli is renowned for its abundant agricultural resources. The cultivation of rice and rush grass, along with innovative craftsmanship, gives Yuanli a unique charm that sets it apart from other towns.
For some reason, every time I arrive at Banqiao Station, I find myself caught in the experience of getting lost. Similar to Taipei Main Station, Banqiao Station is a complex structure where five different transit systems converge, with connections to various transportation options and shopping centers, making it feel like a maze. However, this complexity also underscores Banqiao's undeniable prosperity. In addition to its rapid commercial development, Banqiao is home to several renowned historical sites, such as the Lin Family Mansion and Garden. Experiencing the slow flow of cultural sentiments amidst the bustling urban area is one way to truly appreciate the essence of Banqiao.