Dinh Bao Tran University of Ulsan
Not too long ago, I had the most amazing time in Tapei – the incredibly fantastic capital city of Taiwan. Although I went there on the weekend, I was extremely surprised to see the streets were not as noisy or crowded like others in big cities which I have been to before. But despite this, I still managed to see and experience the modernity of a capital city.
My first day began with a special kind of dumpling named Xiaolongbao. It is said to have been a famous Chinese king’s favorite food in the past. Then, I visited Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall which was built by a light ancient instruction with a blue decisive color. After that, I went on a tour to Shifen Waterfall, Shifen Old Street, and Jiufen Village. I totally enjoyed the breathtaking scenes of Shifen Waterfall. At Shifen Old Street, I also bought a decorative four-colored lantern. It is said the red, yellow, blue, and pink colors are symbols for health, wealth, promotion, and happiness; and when you write wishes on the lantern’s surface and send it to the sky, your wishes will come true. Jiufen is an old village decorated with wonderful lights from predominantly red lanterns like those I usually see in old movies. Finally, I went to Ximending Night Market and was really excited to try the rather pungent Tofu. It does not have an attractive smell but it tastes unbelievably delicious.
The next day, I went to Tamsui which is famous for its old station. People sold lots of street food and milk tea at the village nearby. From Tamsui, I got on a ferry to go to Bali Left Bank. The next destination was the 101 Building, and I also visited Longshan Temple too. It is considered to be the most naturally powerful temple in Taipei, so many people were there to pray or make wishes for themselves. Finally, I stopped at Longshan Night Market. It is a perfect heaven for a food lover like me. I tried many special foods and bought some souvenirs.
I had only three days in Taipei but I could not deny I had fallen in love with its sights, food, and the lifestyle of Taiwanese people. It was the best trip for me and I will definitely visit Taipei again.