Kaohsiung Travel - Day1! Yangyu Mud Pond, Wushanding Mud Volcanoes

 

Travel Date: 2024/04/05

* It was pretty long post, thus I separated it into 2 parts - check out part 1 - LINK *

Check out also our first day travel, where we visited Shoushan Zoo and Zuoying Old Town

It's the first day of our 3-day, 2-night trip to Kaohsiung. Interestingly, it happened to be just 2 days after the strongest earthquake in 25 years struck Hualien, but most of the places we planned to visit are in the mountains. The earthquake's impact wasn't as significant here, considering the distance and the relatively small size of the mountains. Surprisingly, we encountered plenty of people traveling here as well, showing that life goes on despite natural events.

During our trip, we revisited some places that we had seen 4 years ago, and they were vastly different from before.

New Yangnyu Mud Pond (新養女湖)

As I was about to search for our last destination on Google Maps, I stumbled upon a new place—a truly recent discovery, as we learned it had only been around for just over a year: the New Yangnyu Mud Pond. Located in the Yanchao District, which boasts the highest density of mud volcanoes in Taiwan, this new attraction offers a unique experience for visitors.

Adjacent to the "Wushanding Mud Volcano Nature Reserve," the discovery of "Xinyangnu Lake" occurred at the end of 2022. This discovery has added to the geological wonders of the area, further enhancing its appeal.

Yangnu Lake is distinguished by its distinctive sounds—the release of gases creates a bubbling reminiscent of boiling hot water—as mud is sprayed into the air. 

At the entrance, visitors are given newspapers, and they have the opportunity to set the mud pool on fire.

You can also purchase something I've never seen in other places: eggs cooked in the local mud. 

If you're wondering, the eggs tasted just like any normal boiled eggs, so there was nothing unique added to the flavor. Additionally, there are popsicles and honey available for purchase.

Wushanding Mud Volcano Natural Reserve (烏山頂泥火山自然保留區) 

Our last stop before heading to Kaohsiung City was the Wushanding Mud Volcano Natural Reserve (烏山頂泥火山自然保留區) located nearby. Before entering the reserve area, it's necessary to fill out an application form for entry.

Protected since 1992 as part of Taiwan's smallest nature reserve (less than 5 hectares in area), the mud volcano found here is the largest and most impressive among others scattered around Taiwan. This area is the most densely populated with mud volcanoes in Taiwan and is also the most developed area for the mud cone. Due to the spectacular and highly active nature of the cone-shaped mud volcano, the Wushanding Mud Volcano was designated as a natural reserve.

The place has also changed a lot over the years. Here is a picture from 2019 to compare. There was also a free guide available when we visited that explained how the mud volcanoes form and talked about the fauna and flora of the area.

Mud volcanoes do not produce lava and are not necessarily driven by magmatic activity. The mud produced by mud volcanoes is mostly formed from hot water that has been heated deep below the Earth's surface, mixed and blended with subterranean mineral deposits. The temperature of the mud volcano in the area is about 25 degrees Celsius.

Kaohsiung City

At the end of our journey, we drove to Kaohsiung City and found accommodation in one of the budget-friendly options around 85 Sky Tower. It's always a bit challenging to find a hotel last minute, especially without breaking the bank on those crazy expensive ones.

After settling in, we took a leisurely walk to the nearby harbor and decided to dine at an Indian restaurant in the area. It turned out to be such a fun time, reminding me why I enjoy Kaohsiung so much and how much I missed visiting the area.

Deep down, I couldn't help but hope that my husband could change jobs and we could move back to the south. However, I realize that it's not an easy decision, at least not in the near future. Nonetheless, our time in Kaohsiung was a wonderful reminder of the charm and allure of southern Taiwan.

Address:

1. New Yangyu Mud Pond: 824高雄市燕巢區新養女湖

2. Wushanding Mud Volcano Natural Reserve: 824高雄市燕巢區深水段183之8號

3. India Food: 802高雄市苓雅區新光路50號

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Kaohsiung Travel - Day1! Tianliao Moon World, Stone Temple

Travel Date: 2024/04/05

* It was pretty long post, thus I separated it into 2 parts - check out part 2 - LINK *

Check out also our first day travel, where we visited Shoushan Zoo and Zuoying Old Town

It's the first day of our 3-day, 2-night trip to Kaohsiung. Interestingly, it happened to be just 2 days after the strongest earthquake in 25 years struck Hualien, but most of the places we planned to visit are in the mountains. The earthquake's impact wasn't as significant here, considering the distance and the relatively small size of the mountains. Surprisingly, we encountered plenty of people traveling here as well, showing that life goes on despite natural events.

During our trip, we revisited some places that we had seen 4 years ago, and they were vastly different from before.

Tianliao Moon World (田寮月世界)

Four years ago, we went to check out Tianliao Moon World, a unique place in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It looked totally different from what we saw when we went there recently. The pond in front of the mountains was all dried up. I suggest visiting in the summer when there's more rain. Now, it's all dry and not that nice.

It's free to get in, and finding a spot to park is pretty easy. It used to be a place where people and goats lived. Now, it's a park with temples and a mud volcanoes hiding nearby. 

The park is pretty big, it more than an hour to walk around. At night, they light up the park with lights, making it look magical.

Moon World is part of a big area in southern Taiwan that looks like a desert. It's called "badlands" because of how the land got all rough from rain and streams over a long time. The rocks there are mudstone, sandstone, shale, and chalk. Only spiny bamboo can grow there. Because there's not much growing, the rain makes the hills change a lot, and that's why they look so interesting. 

We visited here just two days after a recent massive earthquake struck Hualien, so we decided not to climb up the stones, opting instead to only walk around.

Tianliao Stone Temple (石頭廟)

Our next destination was Tianliao Stone Temple (石頭廟). The temple's story dates back to 1973 when its construction began, lasting a span of 12 years. Its origins can be traced to the ancient Putuo Mountain Temple, a small hidden temple in the grasslands.

During our visit four years ago, the temple seemed relatively unknown, with few visitors. However, it's remarkably different now. We encountered a significant influx of people, including tour buses. Additionally, while parking was limited in the past, there's now a sizable parking lot available.

The temple is structured into a front hall, rear hall, and museum. The museum exhibits various household items and crafts from earlier times.

The name "Stone Temple" is derived from its unique hall constructed with stones and shells, resembling an underwater palace. Tianliao Stone Temple venerates several Taoist gods, with the main deity being the Cundi Bodhisattva.

Address:

1. Tiaonliao Moon Wolrd: 823高雄市田寮區月球路34號

2. Tianliao Stone Temple: 823高雄市田寮區新興路2-7號

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Discover Poland: 32 Fascinating Facts That Will Amaze You

Poland, a land of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, holds a treasure trove of fascinating facts waiting to be uncovered. From ancient traditions to modern innovations, here are 32 interesting tidbits about this enchanting country that will leave you intrigued:

1. Size Matters: Poland ranks as the 9th largest country in Europe, offering a vast expanse of diverse terrain to explore.

2. Roots of the Name: The name "Poland" (Polska) originates from the tribe "Polanie," meaning "people living in open fields," reflecting its early inhabitants' way of life.

3. Vanishing Act: Between 1772 and 1795, Poland disappeared from world maps due to partitions by neighboring powers.

4. Constitutional Trailblazer: In 1791, Poland adopted the world's second written constitution, just after the USA, setting a groundbreaking precedent in governance.

5. Phoenix from the Ashes: Warsaw, ravaged during WWII, rose from its ruins to meticulously reconstruct its Old Town, preserving its medieval allure.

6. Eclectic Landscapes: From beaches to mountains, forests to lakes, and even Europe's only desert - the Bledowska Desert, Poland boasts diverse natural wonders.

7. Academic Heritage: Home to the second oldest university in Europe, Jagiellonian University, founded in 1364, Poland has long been a center of academic excellence.

8. Salt of the Earth: The Wieliczka Salt Mine, over 800 years old, stands as a testament to Poland's rich mining heritage and architectural ingenuity.

9. Market Marvel: Krakow's market, the largest in Poland and Europe, spans an impressive 200 meters on each side, bustling with activity and history.

10. Lake Paradise: The Masurian Lake District enchants with over 2300 lakes, offering tranquil retreats and scenic vistas.

11. Global Celebrations: Argentina honors Polish heritage with Polish Day, established in 1995, highlighting the enduring bond between the two nations.

12. Culinary Legacy: Poland's culinary heritage dates back centuries, with the first surviving Polish cookbook published in 1698, offering a glimpse into traditional gastronomy.

13. Musical Extravaganza: The Pol'and'Rock Festival, Europe's largest outdoor music festival, captivates audiences with its electrifying performances and vibrant atmosphere.

14. Architectural Marvel: The Palace of Culture and Science boasts the second largest clock in Europe, a testament to Poland's architectural prowess.

15. Cheese Chronicles: Evidence of cheese production dating back 7500-8000 years near Warsaw underscores Poland's rich dairy traditions.

16. Slimmest Abode: Warsaw lays claim to the narrowest house in the world, a mere 92 cm wide at its thinnest point, nestled between two buildings.

17. Golden Years: The President of Poland honors enduring love by awarding medals to couples celebrating 50 years of marriage, a touching tribute to lifelong commitment.

18. Scarred by War: Poland's resilience shines through its tumultuous history, with approximately 20% of its population perishing during WWII, a testament to the nation's fortitude.

19. Libation Innovation: Polish culture embraces unique drinking customs, such as beer with juice or mulled wine, adding a distinctive flair to social gatherings.

20. Bison Haven: Europe's heaviest land animals, European bison, roam freely in Poland's Białowieża Primeval Forest, a symbol of conservation efforts and biodiversity.

21. Gone but Not Forgotten: The Warsaw Radio Mast, once the world's tallest structure, stood as a beacon of communication until its collapse in 1991, leaving behind a legacy of technological marvel.

22. Castle Grandeur: Malbork Castle, the largest castle globally, enchants visitors with its grandeur and Gothic architecture, a testament to Poland's medieval heritage.

23. Etiquette Essentials: Polish culture places importance on etiquette, with wearing hats indoors considered impolite, especially in homes or places of worship.

24. Festive Soak: Smigus Dyngus, celebrated on Easter Monday, sees revelers engage in water fights, symbolizing purification and fertility, in a lively tradition cherished by many.

25. Name Day Celebrations: Poles commemorate their name days, associated with saints, alongside birthdays, reflecting a deep-rooted connection to tradition and religious customs.

26. Dubbing Delight: Foreign movies and series on Polish TV are uniquely dubbed by a single male voice, a distinctive feature of Poland's television culture.

27. Amber Appeal: Poland leads globally in amber exports, with souvenirs and jewelry prized for their beauty and craftsmanship, attracting tourists from far and wide.

28. Mushroom Foraging: Picking wild mushrooms in forests is a beloved family pastime in Poland, with generations passing down knowledge of edible varieties.

29. Historic Hospitality: Wrocław's "Piwnica Świdnicka," Europe's oldest restaurant in continuous operation since 1275, offers a taste of history and culinary delights.

30. Floral Faux Pas: A cultural quirk dictates that even-numbered flowers are reserved for funerals, with chrysanthemums and white lilies symbolizing remembrance and reverence.

31. Hidden Gems: Poland boasts Europe's oldest forest, the village with the geometric center of Europe, and the unique Wild Pigs Beach, offering surprises at every turn.

32. Farewell to Winter: Poland bids adieu to winter with a unique tradition. Marzanna dolls, symbolizing winter, are ceremoniously "drowned" in rivers or lakes on the first day of spring, marking the onset of a new season.

From its storied past to its vibrant present, Poland captivates with its rich tapestry of culture, tradition, and innovation. These 32 intriguing facts offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of this extraordinary country, inviting you to explore its wonders and forge unforgettable memories. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the enchanting world of Poland and discover its endless charms for yourself!

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A Lasting Legacy: The Operational Roundhouse in Taiwan's Changhua

Travel Date: 2024/03/23

It's been six years since we last visited this place. Our son was only four months old at the time, and when I showed him pictures, he couldn't believe it. He always feels like we never take him anywhere, as he can't remember those early days... Luckily, I have pictures from every place we've been to. Over the past two years, we haven't gone out as much as we used to six or seven years ago, especially since moving to the north. I have no idea where to go next, as many places either we've seen before or they don't seem that interesting to visit. This isn't great for my YouTube channel either, as I barely have any videos except for cooking ones. At least winter seems to be fading away, and suddenly we're experiencing temperatures of 34 degrees Celsius, such a change from the 15-20 degrees recently. I love summer, so the warmer weather doesn't bother me at all, but the only downside is that I can't open my eyes due to the sunlight, and I end up looking terrible in pictures, lol.

We also made a stop at Tianwei Highway Gardens as I wanted to find some herbs for my balcony... I've managed to make many of them disappear... I guess keeping plants on the balcony is a lot harder than having an actual garden like I used to have in Poland.

Changhua Roundhouse (扇形車庫)

The Changhua Fan-shaped Garage is located in the northern part of Changhua Station. It's part of the Changhua Locomotive Depot and was built in 1922. The warehouse building is centered around the railway turntable, forming a semi-arc-shaped garage with twelve lanes in a radial pattern. It's one of the legacies of Taiwan's Japanese rule. Initially, the roundhouse had only six stalls, but more were added in 1933.

Currently, the only preserved fan-shaped garage in Taiwan is this county-level monument in Changhua County. Worldwide, there are only three roundhouses still in use, with the other two located in Mexico.

The purpose of this roundhouse was to maintain and repair locomotives and provide parking space for long-distance trains. For this reason, the place was also called the "locomotive hotel."

Today, it's used as a maintenance depot for diesel and electric trains and is also home to old steam engines. It's the only place in Taiwan where all types of locomotives are serviced.

The garage building is divided into twelve stalls, each with its own rail spur, large enough for one locomotive. It's centered around the turntable and spread out at a 99-degree angle towards the garage. Since steam locomotives can only drive forward, unlike electric or diesel locomotives that have front and rear cockpits for two-way driving, steam locomotives need to be turned around on the transfer platform to change their direction. The locomotives stop on this bridge-like structure and wait for it to turn them in the right position to take their space.

In addition to the Changhua fan-shaped garage, six roundhouses were built in different cities between 1895 and 1945, including Taipei, Hsinchu, Chiayi, and two in Kaohsiung. The first roundhouse was built in Taipei in 1901.

As cities grew and steam locomotives were phased out of service, roundhouses became obsolete. In the 1970s, the roundhouse in Kaohsiung was the first to be demolished. After the demolition of the other five roundhouses, people realized that if the last one in Changhua was not preserved, the memory of steam locomotives in Taiwan would fade away.

The Taiwan Railway had plans to build a central electric train maintenance base, and the last remaining garage was meant to be dismantled. However, it was saved by local residents and railway enthusiasts. The electric vehicle maintenance base was relocated to the south of Changhua Station. In January 2001, the Changhua County Government designated the roundhouse as a county historic site.

To enter the Changhua Roundhouse, visitors only need to register at the entrance guard room, and group tours can be arranged for more than ten people. The garage is still in service, retaining its maintenance function. Visitors have the opportunity to witness on-site maintenance and observe locomotives departing from the warehouse, experiencing the actual operation of the fan-shaped garage. In addition to the main building and random dynamic displays, there are two robot sculptures in the factory made from discarded parts of the Taichai diesel engine. Construction observation decks, rows of chairs under trees, and toilets are also available.

Entry to the Changhua Roundhouse is free of charge, and the opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 13:00 to 16:00, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10:00 to 16:00.

Next to the place, you can also visit Roundhouse Railway Park, which offers rides on a small train for 150NT per person. Additionally, there are various types of souvenirs and coffee available. There was also a small market at the time, although I'm not sure if it's like this every weekend.

Address:

500彰化縣彰化市彰美路一段1號

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