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| Taipei
Tours - Excursions |
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Sungshan
Nature Reserve
This picturesque reserve to the southeast of the
city is very big and densely forested - ideal
for the hikers. Along with a number of trails, visitors will
also stumble across a number of temples surrounded through the area.
It has 4 mountains. Elephant Mountain
is smallest of all and is therefore an ideal place for novices
to stroll or advance hikers to warm up. From here you can choose
from Lady Finger, Tiger's Head
and, the highest at 325m, Nine-Five Peak.
There are several ways to get to Sungshan Nature Reserve, although the most popular way
is by bus from the city centre to the impressive
Sheng'en Temple. From here, the only way is up.
Tienhsiang
If you are planning to travel out of the city, head for Tienhsiang.
The highlight of Tienhsiang is Taroko Gorge,
Taiwan's most stunning site. The gorge
is 19 kilometres long, with sheer cliffs dropping away to a rushing river
of white water.
Right above the entrance
to the gorge lies the Eternal Spring Shrine with its waterfall. It was constructed as a memorial
to the 450 labourers who passed away constructing the Taroko Highway.
The town is a relaxing and soothing little resort at the top of
the gorge.
Yangmingshan
The Yangmingshan mountain range at the northern
end of Taipei offers a scenic alternative. Springtime sees
budding cherry trees and azaleas.
The lower slopes are home to the wealthy Taiwanese and westerners
who prefer the cooler, clean air. These areas are also home to the
ultra-expensive US-style housing projects, but most of
the mountain is protected from such development and still remains
a wonderful place for hiking day-trips. Camping
is possible in this area - as is hotel accommodation - but most
just go for a couple of lungful of fresh air. |
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