Join the "Twinnen in Taiwan" — a vlog about the life of two exchange students from San Francisco in Taiwan — on a day trip from Taipei, exploring the otherworldly Yehliu Geopark, the enchanting town of Jiufen, and the charming Shifen with its sky lanterns. Discover Taiwan's stunning coast and the inspiration behind "Spirited Away."
Our excursion from Taipei took us to renowned sites like Yehliu Geopark, known for its Martian-like landscapes, Jiufen, the town said to have inspired "Spirited Away," and Shifen, famous for its sky lanterns.
At Yehliu Geopark, located on Taiwan's coast, we were captivated by its unique rock formations, such as the famed Queen's Head. Although the long queue for a photo with the actual rock was daunting, a fiberglass replica offered a more accessible alternative. The park's other formations and the stunning ocean views were impressive, despite the intense heat.
Our journey continued to Jiufen, with stops at Zhang Rong Xiao Chi for lunch, the Yinyang Sea, and the Golden Waterfall, both colored by the remnants of gold mining. Jiufen's Old Street, the lantern-lit A-Mei Tea House, and its coastal views transported us into a world reminiscent of Miyazaki's "Spirited Away."
After enjoying traditional shaved ice and tea at the A-Mei Tea House, believed to have inspired Yubaba's bathhouse in the film, we felt immersed in the town's magical atmosphere.
In Shifen, we participated in the local tradition of releasing sky lanterns. For a little more than ＄8 each, we wrote our wishes on lanterns and watched them ascend into the sky, a memorable end to our day.
Returning to Taipei, we concluded our day with a meal ordered through Uber Eats, embracing the blend of adventure and modern convenience that Taiwan offers.
Our excursion from Taipei took us to renowned sites like Yehliu Geopark, known for its Martian-like landscapes, Jiufen, the town said to have inspired "Spirited Away," and Shifen, famous for its sky lanterns.
At Yehliu Geopark, located on Taiwan's coast, we were captivated by its unique rock formations, such as the famed Queen's Head. Although the long queue for a photo with the actual rock was daunting, a fiberglass replica offered a more accessible alternative. The park's other formations and the stunning ocean views were impressive, despite the intense heat.
Our journey continued to Jiufen, with stops at Zhang Rong Xiao Chi for lunch, the Yinyang Sea, and the Golden Waterfall, both colored by the remnants of gold mining. Jiufen's Old Street, the lantern-lit A-Mei Tea House, and its coastal views transported us into a world reminiscent of Miyazaki's "Spirited Away."
After enjoying traditional shaved ice and tea at the A-Mei Tea House, believed to have inspired Yubaba's bathhouse in the film, we felt immersed in the town's magical atmosphere.
In Shifen, we participated in the local tradition of releasing sky lanterns. For a little more than ＄8 each, we wrote our wishes on lanterns and watched them ascend into the sky, a memorable end to our day.
Returning to Taipei, we concluded our day with a meal ordered through Uber Eats, embracing the blend of adventure and modern convenience that Taiwan offers.
