A Short Visit in Alishan Chiayi, Taiwan

It was in early 2000 when Meteor Garden was aired in our country. I was still studying back then and would rush home just to catch the afternoon drama series. Meteor Garden was so addicting, if movie marathons are possible back then, I would!

Last November, I went to Taiwan and was able to visit Alishan for a day. Chiayi, a charming county located in Southwestern Taiwan. Although it was short but sweet trip. How I wish I did the 'Meteor Garden Sightseeing Tour then and explored some of the tourist spots of the popular Taiwan drama series in early 2000.

We took the train from Formosa Boulevard station going Zuoying station where the High Speed Train (HSR) is located. The High Speed Train station in Zuoying is quite huge. It actually looks like an airport. Since we already purchase HSR tickets in Klook, we just have to show our passports at the ticketing center.

Here's a photo blog about Alishan National Forest Recreational Center in Chiayi, Taiwan.

It was freezing cold when we arrived in Alishan. There's a lot of walking inside the park so make sure to wear comfy shoes and bring jacket when you visit during the autumn and winter time. There are several tea shops where you can learn about Taiwanese tea. 

There's a hotel inside the park, it would be best to stay a few days here so you can explore Alishan and nearby attractions. Don't forget to catch the old red tram and enjoy a relaxing tour inside the forest. Sadly I have to skip that activity since we need to go back to catch the last bus trip to Chiayi station.

Tea House and 7-Eleven Chiayi

Mochi and local snacks in Alishan

beautiful temple in Alishan

It was a short but memorable tour in Alishan.  If given the chance, I would still go back.

Yesterday, I was shocked reading the news about the passing of one of my childhood favorite actresses, Barbie Hsu, also known as Shan Cai of the famous Meteor Garden. The cause of her demise was due to influenza induced pneumonia. It broke my heart to hear this unexpected news.

Meteor Garden

Meteor Garden is one of my favorite drama series. The love-hate relationships between Barbie Hsu who played Shan Cai and Jerry Yan as Dao Ming Si was excellent. The series talks about various things including family, friendship and love-hate relationship between Shan Cai with the handsome Dao Ming Si. If I have the chance, I will definitely do the Meteor Garden Tour the next time I visit Taiwan. Perhaps will stay a couple of days in Chiayi.