Back in mid-April, I purchased a new phone. Naturally, that meant getting a new phone case, screen protector, and lens protector as well. I bought all three at the same shop, and they also kindly helped transfer my data from the old device.
The salesperson recommended the accessories, and since there weren’t many other shops nearby - or many options to choose from - I decided to go with their suggestion. The total cost for the case, screen protector, and lens protector was close to 3,000 NT, so I didn’t consider them cheap.
After only two months, I noticed the screen protector starting to peel at the edges. It had a slightly raised border compared to the center, which was unusual to me - every other protector I’ve had before was flatter and fit neatly within the phone case’s edge.
Over time, more cracks began appearing. While it didn’t affect basic use much, it wasn’t ideal. From the beginning, I also found the raised edges slightly annoying as they covered part of the screen’s view.
The lens protector’s damage was harder to pinpoint. I noticed it about three weeks ago, but since the weather had been poor, we hadn’t been outside much. When I finally went out on a sunny day to take photos, I realized a large portion of my pictures appeared foggy! That’s when I realized the crack was affecting image quality or I should say makes everything unusable...
I decided to leave a review on Google - not a one-star review, but an honest one - explaining that the products seemed to be of poor quality. I also mentioned that my phone had never been dropped or hit by anything. Most of the time, it sits on my desk, or I carry it in a pocket or bag without any sharp objects.
For comparison, I still own another phone that’s 4–5 years old with an intact screen, and my husband’s phone is the same. Both of those have cheaper protectors purchased from a different shop (also fell on the ground before!), and they’ve held up perfectly. So, having an accessory break in under three months felt disappointing.
The shop replied quickly - but the initial response wasn’t what I expected. They straight away said that the products have not been bought from their store and suggested the damage could have been caused by carrying the phone with keys or coins. I was taken aback, as I never do those things, and everything was purchased from them directly.
Since it’s hard to sort these things out over Google reviews, we decided to visit the shop in person.
Once there, the conversation took a more positive turn. The salesperson was still trying to tell us this is not their product!! But in the end she offered to replace the screen protector for free, and offered to change the lens protector, and even exchange the phone case the next time I come back as they didn't have any in stock. I hadn’t expected that nor was I trying to get free replacements in the first place. My goal was simply to let them know that the accessories they sell might not match the price in terms of durability.
While the experience had its frustrations, I appreciated that, in the end, they were willing to make things right. Hopefully, the replacements will last longer and help prevent similar issues in the future.
On August 2, our trip led us from Toufen to Tongxiao to catch the famous Tongxiao Sand Sculpture Festival (which we have been to previously, blog post HERE). Back at home, the weather had been perfect - bright blue skies, warm sun. Yet when we arrived in Tongxiao, the sky turned ominously dark and it sprinkled rain just as the kite show was about to begin.
Thankfully, after a short shower, the clouds parted and the sky cleared just in time. The kites soared vividly in the crisp light above the towering sand sculptures.
This summer, Taiwan has suffered unusually heavy rainfall and widespread damage (at least in my 8 years living here). Around late July 2025, torrential rains battered southern Taiwan, forcing over 3,000 residents to evacuate, shuttering businesses, and triggering school closures across Tainan, Chiayi, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung.
Just days earlier, Typhoon Danas struck the west coast in early July, killing two people, injuring more than 500, cutting power to around 660,000 households, and causing over NT$1 billion in damage. Authorities warned of continuing severe flooding and potential landslides across the island.
Right before the kite show we decided to grab some local beef noodle soup. Just a few bites in - a cockroach surfaced in my bowl. I recoiled in disgust. That nightmare presence destroyed my appetite and dampened my mood completely. I had hoped to film some footage of food and the festival, but after that incident, the mood was gone - no vlog, no content (I've a few shorts tho - YouTube).
This isn’t the first time I’ve found something in my food - there have been hairs, strings, or other random items, which I’d usually just take out and continue eating. But I guess a cockroach crosses the line. I’ve even eaten in places where cockroaches or rats were running around and I don’t mean open-air stalls, I mean indoors! But seriously, after eight years here, it feels like things in Taiwan are getting worse, not better. And it’s not just the food hygiene, the traffic is getting out of hand too.
Taiwan has been under scrutiny for recent food safety scandals. Just a few recent examples:
- In Taichung, a Cold Stone Creamery outlet was ordered shut after four people accidentally drank bleach mixed in with their ice cream toppings.
- At the Breeze Xinyi branch of INPARADISE, 59 people fell ill between January 5–7, 2025. Over 70% had consumed raw fish.
- A popular Tan Zuo Ma Li outlet near the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts was ordered to close for seven days after 22 diners reported gastrointestinal symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- In mid‑2024, authorities uncovered 11.4 tons of frozen meat—including goose meat that was up to 14 years past its expiration date—being relabelled and sold.
What began as a promising, sunny travel adventure turned into a cautionary tale of unpredictability - both in the weather and in food safety, the experience left a bitter aftertaste.
Taiwan remains a place of incredible beauty and cultural richness - but current events suggest there's a pressing need for more vigilance in food hygiene and stronger enforcement of safety standards.
The sun beat down as we hopped on our scooter, a 45-minute journey ahead of us with a singular mission: to witness the early stages of the much-anticipated 2025 Miaoli Tongxiao Art Festival’s sand sculpture exhibition. The promise of impressive sandy creations lured us out into the scorching heat.
Our journey began with a brief detour to the famed Baishatun Mazu Temple. As expected, the temple grounds were teeming with devotees—a vibrant wave of people making their offerings. While I had hoped to peek inside and experience its revered atmosphere, the sheer volume of the crowd made it a task for another day. “Next time,” I promised myself, as we hopped back on our scooter.
Continuing our ride toward Tongxiao, the landscape unfolded before us. Excitement bubbled as we knew we were getting closer to our sandy destination. With the official festival still about two weeks away (kicking off on July 12th), we were curious to see the progress of the monumental sand sculptures.
Upon arriving at Tongxiao Beach, we were greeted by a fascinating scene. Several impressive sand structures were already taking shape, their intricate details hinting at the artistry to come. However, it was clear that the artists were still hard at work, with a few sculptures yet to reach their final form. It felt like a privileged sneak peek—witnessing the birth of these temporary masterpieces.
One of the highlights of the upcoming festival is the ambitious 70-meter-long, 5-meter-tall continuous sculpture—a first for Taiwan—created by a collective of eight international sand sculptors. The sheer scale of this project was awe-inspiring. In total, 22 works are expected to grace the beach this year, all under the theme of “Carefree Sand City,” promoting messages of sustainability and peace. The festival will run from July 12th until September 14th.
An unexpected perk of visiting before the official opening was the distinct lack of crowds. Last year, we were among bustling beachgoers during the festival. While perhaps not as widely known as the sand sculptures at Fulong Beach, the Tongxiao festival boasts a significant advantage: it’s completely free! We also noted the ample parking space, making it easily accessible by car. For those relying on public transport, Tongxiao even has a train station, adding to its convenience.
Of course, being at the seaside, we couldn’t resist a short walk along the beach. The sand was warm—or rather hot—beneath our feet, and we dipped our toes into the water, a welcome respite from the midday heat. However, with the sun directly overhead, the lack of shade encouraged us to seek out our next objective: lunch!
Our quest for food led us to a familiar spot from a previous visit. The taste was just as good as we remembered. Despite the small size of Tongxiao town and its limited dining options, this particular place was buzzing with locals and visitors alike—a sure sign of its popularity.
With our stomachs happily filled, we considered visiting the nearby Japanese shrine. However, we learned that it’s currently undergoing renovations, so we decided to save that for a future trip once it’s fully restored.
We took a short scooter ride uphill, seeking panoramic ocean views. There’s a small park to explore—perhaps not offering the most spectacular scenery, but it does provide a 360-degree panoramic view of Tongxiao.
As the day began to wind down, we started our journey back home to Toufen. We made a quick stop once more at Baishatun, this time simply to admire the vast expanse of the ocean. The sun was so strong it hurt my eyes, though. Before finally heading home, we made one last beach stop in Zhunan, enjoying the coastal breeze before concluding our day trip.
Our early expedition to Tongxiao Beach offered an exciting glimpse into the 2025 Miaoli Tongxiao Art Festival. With the festival being free and easily accessible, it’s definitely worth marking your calendars for a visit between July 12th and early September. We, for one, are looking forward to seeing the finished masterpieces and experiencing the full vibrancy of the festival!
I can’t believe it - our son has officially finished first grade in Taiwan! It’s been quite a year, full of challenges, surprises, and (let’s be honest) a lot of homework. As a parent who grew up in Poland, I can say one thing with confidence: the workload in Taiwanese schools is definitely heavier than in Poland. A lot heavier!
Our son started first grade at the age of six, which is pretty common here. In Poland, kids usually begin school at seven - first attending a preparatory year called "zerówka" (Class 0). It’s similar to kindergarten but more focused on getting ready for school. In Taiwan, kindergarten can start as early as age 3, and since most kids stay there for two or three years, by the time they’re six, they’re considered ready for first grade.
Interestingly, in Poland, this earlier start is becoming more common in the cities, but in the countryside, many kindergartens still only accept children five and older - or don’t exist at all. When I was little, I started school at five, and I was the only one in my class that young. I had to join a group of kids one year older than me - good memories, but I still remember the struggle. 😅
Class Size and Pace
Back in my elementary school in Poland, we had just 10 students in our class - 8 by the end of it! But here in Taiwan, classes usually have around 25 kids, and there are often several classes per grade. In my son’s school, there are four first-grade classes. That alone shows how different the scale of education is here.
What surprised me most is the speed of learning. Within two to three months, the kids finished learning Bopomofo (the Taiwanese phonetic alphabet), and quickly moved on to reading full Chinese words. And by the end of the school year, if your child still used Bopomofo instead of the correct character, even if the answer was technically right - it was marked as wrong. That was really frustrating, especially for a child who only started learning Chinese a couple of years ago (in the kindergarten).
Grading and Testing
The grading system is quite different too. In Poland, we grade from 1 to 6, where 5 is usually the best you get, and 6 means you went above and beyond the curriculum. In Taiwan, everything is scored in percentages, with 100% being perfect - and every little mistake reduces your score.
There are so many tests. Little ones, big ones, monthly ones, semester-end exams… Our son brought home a pile of tests. It’s like they’re always being tested. The most important subjects are Chinese, Math, and "Living"—a kind of social studies subject that teaches behavior, rules, and how to be a "good child." I sometimes feel that creativity is discouraged in favor of picking the "correct" answer that aligns with what society expects. That's a hard adjustment for me as a parent.
Summer Homework (Yes, There Is Homework in Summer!)
No, summer break doesn’t mean rest. There’s a 64-page homework book filled with Chinese and math exercises. On top of that, kids have to write two full-page stories about their summer experiences and are encouraged to read one book a day (!). And the funniest part? A reminder to exercise! Which is ironic, because during the school year, there’s very little time or opportunity for physical activity.
Take football, for example. Kids' training starts at 8 PM, which means they finish by 9, come home, shower, and probably fall asleep around 10 or later. But school starts early - most kids have to be up by 6:30 AM. That’s a long day for a six-year-old.
Summer Camps and Extra Classes
At the end of the school year, each child received a list of summer camps and extra classes - some paid, some free. There’s a limit of two activities per child, so at most, two weeks of the vacation can be filled this way. We chose football (which lasted two weeks) and badminton. Each class lasts four hours, so it’s actually a fun way for kids to play and socialize, rather than just stay home and do homework all summer.
One thing I find frustrating is the language policy. English isn’t formally taught until third grade. Instead, first graders get one hour of Taiwanese language per week—and yes, it’s graded too. But let me be honest: it feels quite useless, especially since we live in a Hakka-speaking area where barely anyone uses Taiwanese. 🤣
Our son is already juggling four languages: English, which I’ve taught him since birth, Polish, Mandarin Chinese starting in kindergarten and now at school and Taiwanese. That’s a lot for a seven-year-old! I’d be much happier if they started teaching English earlier - especially since I have no idea how to teach him to write. Not to mention, there’s so little time left in the day: he’s at school from 7:30 AM to 5 PM, and we often go out to play football around 7 PM, then come back, shower, and go straight to bed.
I can’t help but feel that the system is a bit too intense, especially for such young children.
There’s so much focus on performance, testing, and rule-following. Creativity and individuality can easily get lost in the process. I still think about how school was back in Poland - slower-paced, fewer tests, more playtime. But I also recognize that each system has its pros and cons.
Are you dreaming of a place where serene nature, rich culture, and spiritual peace intertwine? Look no further than the Ningji Yuting Garden Landscape Cultural Park (寧濟御庭園林山水文化園區) in Douliu, Yunlin. This magnificent Chinese-style garden is not just a feast for the eyes; it's an architectural marvel built with an investment of over a hundred million NTD, offering free admission and ample free parking – even for tour buses!
Nestled peacefully on Zhenliao Road in Douliu, near the Yunlin Science Park, Ningji Yuting feels like stepping into a hidden royal garden. Spanning approximately three acres (about 3,500 ping), every corner of this meticulously designed park exudes the timeless elegance of a classical Suzhou garden. Imagine strolling past exquisitely crafted pavilions, serene water features, intricate stone sculptures, and vibrant green landscapes. From the auspicious "Golden Rooster Announcing Good News" at the entrance to the subtle beauty of various flowers like camellias and azaleas, every detail transports you to a bygone era.
Ningji Yuting is more than just a picturesque spot, it's a profound expression of gratitude and spiritual devotion. Established by a prominent local construction company, the park was founded as a heartfelt dedication to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, who guided the founder through challenging times. This deep spiritual connection permeates the entire park, creating an atmosphere of peace and harmony.
The park's name, "Ningji," originates from the revered King Ningji of Quanzhou, while "Shunji" refers to the Mazu Temple in Quanzhou. This historical and spiritual lineage is beautifully embodied in the park's layout and deities.
Your journey through Ningji Yuting is a "100-point blessing path." You'll cross the Ruyi Bridge (Bridge of Auspiciousness) and the Yingxian Bridge (Bridge for Welcoming Immortals), gazing into the crystal-clear waters of Fuhai (Fortune Sea) where fish gracefully glide. Don't miss the rare Green Jade Ancient Warship, a century-old masterpiece that has become a viral hotspot for social media photos! Take a moment to enjoy a cup of warm "Immortal-Welcoming Peace Tea" and feel your spirit uplifted amidst the blooming flowers and the peaceful rustling of pines.
Beyond its undeniable aesthetic charm, Ningji Yuting serves as a significant spiritual center. Within its tranquil confines, visitors can pay respects at various halls dedicated to different deities:
- Sanyuan Hall: Honoring the God of Wealth, complete with a massive golden ingot and offerings.
- Da Guanyin Pavilion (Great Guanyin Pavilion): Housing the White Jade Guanyin, Thousand-Handed Guanyin, and Zhengxiang Guanyin, where you can admire the exquisite interior decorations.
- Ningji Wangye (King Ningji) & Dragon King: Found in the main temple complex, featuring stunning modern architecture complementing the gardens.
- Wenling Mazu: Tucked away in the innermost part of the park, this temple is dedicated to the White Jade Mazu, renowned for her pure, translucent beauty. Notably, Ningji Yuting is the only place in Taiwan where you must cross the Ruyi Bridge to worship the White Jade Mazu, adding to its unique charm.
The park actively integrates traditional culture and spiritual practices. During Chinese New Year, special events like the "Heavenly Official Bestows Blessings, Auspicious Door" are held, featuring enchanting guzheng performances that blend music and spiritual ceremony, creating a truly moving experience. You can also engage in traditional practices like lighting incense and lamps, and even seek blessings for love at the Yue Lao (Matchmaker God) shrine.
For photography enthusiasts, Ningji Yuting is a dream. The arched bridges, serene water features, and majestic temple buildings create an ethereal backdrop for stunning photos. It's no wonder this spot is a favorite for influencers! The blend of traditional Chinese architecture and lush natural scenery provides endless captivating shots.
The park's accessible design, combined with its free admission and ample parking, makes it an excellent choice for families and elders seeking a peaceful and enriching outing. On weekdays, the park is wonderfully quiet, allowing for a deeply meditative experience.
Ningji Yuting is perfectly situated for a full day of exploration in Douliu. It's conveniently close to other popular attractions, making it easy to create a comprehensive itinerary.
Here's what you need to know for your visit:
- Address: No. 195, Zhenliao Road, Douliu City, Yunlin County, Taiwan
- Admission: FREE all year round!
- Parking: Ample free on-site parking is available.
- Pet Policy: Pets are welcome, but must be carried (not allowed to walk on the ground).
- Opening Hours:
Weekdays (Mon-Fri): 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (no appointment needed)
Weekends (Sat-Sun) & Public Holidays: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
1st and 15th of each Lunar Month: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
I was randomly scrolling through Google Maps, as I always do, looking for something new to explore.
It’s getting harder and harder to find places I haven’t seen - even though I don’t have that many videos yet, my blog has been around much longer than my channel, so I’ve already visited and written about a lot of places there.
I’ve noticed that quite a few places in Taiwan are connected to the Japanese occupation era, and honestly, I really enjoy visiting them. There's something fascinating about seeing the different architecture, the remains of shrines, and old Japanese-style buildings. This time, I found a place that I think not many people really know about.
To be honest, Yunlin isn’t a major tourist destination, even many Taiwanese people I’ve met have never actually been here. And if they have, it’s usually just to places like Beigang, Douliu, Huwei, or maybe Xiluo. The smaller townships often get overlooked, probably because they seem like they don’t have much to offer.
I’ll admit, even I sometimes get bored with Yunlin. There really isn’t that much to see, especially if you don’t have your own transportation. Without a car or scooter, it can be pretty hard to get around, and your options for exploring are quite limited.
Former Taiwan Mitsubishi Paper Mill Office Building (原台灣三菱製紙所辦公廳舍(林內驛棧))
Yunlin County's Linnei Township might seem like a quiet corner, but delve a little deeper, and you'll uncover layers of fascinating history. From an ambitious industrial venture to a revered spiritual site, Linnei offers a unique glimpse into Taiwan's past under Japanese rule and its subsequent transformations.
Hidden in plain sight at No. 9, Xinxing Road, in Linnei's Linzhong Village, stands the Former Taiwan Mitsubishi Paper Mill Office Building. Completed in 1911, this distinctive hip-roofed structure with its outer brick arches is more than just an old building; it's a designated cultural asset and a tangible link to Taiwan's early industrialization.
Originally the administrative heart of the Taiwan Mitsubishi Paper Mill, this venture was a bold move by the Mitsubishi Paper Mill partnership from Japan. Why here? The Japanese Governor-General's Office had identified central and southern Taiwan's abundant moso bamboo as ideal for papermaking. In 1908, Mitsubishi leased extensive bamboo forests, leading to the mill's construction north of Linnei Station in 1909. By June 1911, the mill was operational, producing wood pulp from bamboo.
However, despite its grand opening in 1912, the mill's success was short-lived. Market demand fell short, and technological breakthroughs proved elusive. By 1914, production ceased, and the entire operation shut down in February 1916. The story of this mill is also intertwined with local history, as the forceful demarcation of bamboo forests led to the significant Linqipu Incident (Bamboo Forest Incident) of 1912, highlighting the tensions of the era.
After World War II, the office building found new life, serving as the headquarters for Bao Long Paper. Today, this historic structure, officially recognized in 2006 (and renamed in 2009 from "Former Linnei Township Office"), holds promise for the future, with plans to integrate it into an eco-park alongside the former Bao Long Paper Mill site. It stands as a silent witness to industrial ambition and local resilience.
The Linnei Shrine Remnants (林内神社)
Just a short distance away, in the heart of Linnei Township, lies another profound historical site: the Linnei Shrine (林内神社). Though largely dismantled after World War II, its remnants offer a poignant connection to Taiwan's Japanese colonial past and its subsequent transformation.
I actually decided to climb the entire stairs, but my husband... well, let's just say he's not quite as enthusiastic about this kind of activity! So he googled a road and drove all the way to the top.
But here's the funny part: I walked pretty slowly, stopping to take pictures, and guess what? We arrived at the temple at the exact same time!
Built between 1939 and 1940, the Linnei Shrine was a significant Shinto site, dedicated to Prince Kitashirakawa Yoshihisa, the Three Pioneer Deities, and Toyouke-Ōmikami. Its annual festival on March 3rd was a key event. The construction was massive, involving thousands of man-days of compulsory labor, reflecting the Japanese government's push for shrine building across the island.
After 1945, political shifts led to the shrine's gradual destruction. By 1957, the main hall and worship hall were demolished to make way for the Linnei Jigong General Temple (濟公總廟). Yet, remarkably, parts of the shrine survived. The first and second concrete torii gates were preserved, their plaques changed to "Linnei Park," signifying a new public purpose.
In recent years, a commendable effort has been made to restore elements like the sacred bridge (Shinkyo), purification font (Temizuya), and several Kasuga lanterns. What makes Linnei unique is that it's currently the only shrine remnant in Taiwan with three complete sets of torii gates – two original and one new archway for Jigongtang Temple – creating a tangible link to its layered past.
Visiting Linnei Shrine today is a journey through architectural styles and historical narratives. It's a testament to how places evolve, adapt, and sometimes, are reborn.
The Longguomai Forest Trail (龍過脈森林步道)
After immersing yourself in Linnei's rich history, why not breathe deep the fresh air and connect with its natural splendor? The Longguomai Forest Trail (龍過脈森林步道) offers a perfect opportunity to balance your historical exploration with an invigorating outdoor adventure.
This beautiful trail invites you to wander through verdant forests, providing a refreshing escape into Yunlin's natural landscape. It's an excellent choice for hikers of all levels, offering a chance to stretch your legs, enjoy scenic views, and appreciate the tranquility of the forest. It’s the perfect way to round out your visit, experiencing both the man-made heritage and the untouched beauty of Linnei.
At first, we followed signs pointing to a “viewing platform”… but it turned out to be more of a trail junction than an actual viewpoint!
After checking the map, we chose a short trail, about 500 meters long, hoping to catch a glimpse of some Rhinoceros beetles. But instead of beetles, we got a surprise leg workout!
The trail quickly turned challenging - steep, narrow, and not always well-maintained. Some of the wooden steps were broken, so we had to move carefully, watching every step.
Interestingly, this area is also part of a butterfly migration route. Every October, butterflies pass through from south to north, and if you visit at the right time, it's a truly magical sight. While this trail may not be a must-see for everyone, it’s a lovely addition to your itinerary if you enjoy nature walks and mountain paths.
By the end of it, we hadn’t seen a single beetle - just two people, sweaty, out of breath, and realizing that playing football doesn’t exactly prepare you for hiking uphill!
To wrap up the day, we also stopped by a local temple (more on that in the next post!), wandered through a night market, and visited a nearby park that, to our surprise, still had Lantern Festival decorations up - a colorful and unexpected bonus!
Hi! I'm Żaneta, a Polish girl living in Taiwan :) I love cooking and baking. I have both a travel blog and a cooking blog, as well as a YouTube channel. You're welcome to find me on my social media - feel free to ask questions or just chat! ~
