This week’s (October 28 – October 31, 2024) ‘World Theme Travel’ is ‘First time in Taiwan!’ Four episodes will be broadcast. ‘World Theme Travel – My first time in Taiwan!’ Part 3, ‘Some Like It Hot’, will be broadcast on EBS1 TV at 8:40 pm today (30th).
Taiwan, a small but deep island that towers over the Pacific Ocean and boasts huge mountain ranges and the mysteries of Mother Nature!
Wisan, the highest peak in Northeast Asia, 3952m above sea level
A creepy suspension bridge that blows away the midsummer heat
The bustling Keelung Jungwon Festival to celebrate ‘Ghost Month’
Beitou, Yangming Mountain, the source of hot springs with an active volcano
Hualien, where golden daylilies sway across the mountains
If you feel sad that the hot summer is gone, let’s take a trip with cinematographer Kim Jeong-san to the unique charm of Taiwan that you can’t see anywhere else!
A trip to hot springs is something you cannot miss when traveling in Taiwan! Taiwan, an island nation belonging to the Pacific Rim orogenic belt, is rich in geothermal resources, and hot springs are bubbling up all over the country. Above all, it is fun to choose from various types of hot springs. Diregu, the source of Beitou, a hot spring town easily accessible from Taipei by subway, is mysterious with its nose-piercing smell of sulfur and thick sulfur smoke. As you walk along the trail, you can vividly see hot springs boiling at nearly 100 degrees on the ground created by cooled lava.
In Yangmingshan National Park, the only active volcano on the island of Taiwan, traces of sulfur mining remain in various places and sulfur steam is still coming out. This is a hot spring catchment area where sulfur vapors are artificially extracted to heat surface water. This source flows to hotels throughout Beitou and is used as hot spring water. Go to the foot bath that citizens can use for free and soak your feet in the hot spring water to wash away your fatigue.
In Taitung, there is Lisong Hot Spring, famous as ‘Taiwan’s most beautiful wild hot spring.’ To get to Lisong Hot Springs, which gush out from a rock wall that is a mixture of brown and green due to green moss and oxidized iron, you have to wade through a steep and rugged valley for about an hour. I was nervous about whether I would be able to arrive due to the water rising from the rain. Could the curator really be able to take a dip in Lisong Hot Springs?
As Taiwan is a country of bicycles, there are well-built bicycle paths in each city. Refreshed, you can leisurely tour the lake, sea, and dense forest at Taitung Forest Park at your own bike speed.
This time, it’s time to enjoy the thrill of Taitung’s nature! Jiufen Sand Dunes are a place where soil accumulates in the sea over a long period of time due to the influence of monsoon winds, creating a desert-like landscape. It is a rough road that is not easy to get to, so a guide and an off-road vehicle are essential. Who was the unexpected guest who greeted the curator on the way? After a thrilling journey across the mountains and the sea, you can walk along the sand dunes of Jiufen and feel nature with your whole body.
Economy Queen Reporter Park Yu-mi Photo provided by EBS World Theme Travel
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Expert in Taiwanese Geothermal Tourism
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone, to this special segment where we dive into the wonders of Taiwan’s geothermal tourism. Today, we have a fascinating guest, Dr. Liu Mei, an expert in Taiwanese geology and cultural tourism. Dr. Liu, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Liu Mei: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss Taiwan’s unique geology and its thermal attractions.
Editor: Let’s start with the overarching theme of your expertise—Taiwan’s rich geothermal landscape. What makes it a standout destination for travelers looking for hot springs?
Dr. Liu: Taiwan is located on the Pacific Rim orogenic belt, which is notorious for its lush geothermal activity. This position creates a plethora of hot springs that vary significantly in composition and ambiance. From tranquil settings in Beitou to the majestic volcanic landscape of Yangmingshan, the options are diverse and each offers something unique for visitors.
Editor: The recent episodes of ‘World Theme Travel’ have highlighted many of these attractions, including Beitou and Yangmingshan. Can you tell us about the allure of the hot springs in these areas?
Dr. Liu: Absolutely! Beitou is easily accessible via the Taipei subway and is well-known for its sulfur hot springs. Visitors can enjoy a literal hot bath while appreciating the natural surroundings, infused with the intriguing aroma of sulfur. Yangmingshan, on the other hand, is more than just hot springs; it’s the only active volcano in Taiwan. Here, visitors can witness geological processes firsthand, including sulfur vapor escapes and remnants of historical sulfur mining.
Editor: Fascinating! The show also touched on seasonal events such as the bustling Keelung Jungwon Festival during ‘Ghost Month’. How does this festival tie into the overall experience of visiting Taiwan?
Dr. Liu: The Keelung Jungwon Festival creates a vibrant cultural ambience that enriches the travel experience. During Ghost Month, the local communities hold rituals to honor spirits, creating a unique blend of cultural heritage and local belief systems. It’s a time where visitors can immerse themselves in Taiwanese customs, making the trip not just about relaxation at hot springs, but also about understanding the local way of life.
Editor: That’s a wonderful perspective. Now, for travelers hoping to take advantage of the geothermal resources, what advice would you give for making the most out of their trip?
Dr. Liu: I would recommend planning visits to a variety of hot spring areas to compare and contrast the experiences. For instance, don’t miss the chance to experience the raw, natural hot springs in Yangmingshan and then relax in the more developed spas of Beitou. Each location has its own charm, and indulging in both can enhance an appreciation for Taiwan’s geothermal diversity.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Liu! Your insights certainly paint a vivid picture of Taiwan’s geothermal offerings. For our viewers, I highly encourage you to tune into ‘World Theme Travel – My First Time in Taiwan!’ to see for yourself the splendid beauty Dr. Liu mentioned. It promises to be an enticing exploration of this remarkable island. Thank you again, Dr. Liu, for sharing your knowledge!
Dr. Liu: Thank you for having me! I hope everyone gets to experience the magic of Taiwan soon!
Prings but also about engaging with the local culture and traditions. The festival features lively parades, colorful decorations, and various performances that encapsulate the spirit of the community and its respect for ancestors.
Editor: That sounds incredible! With all these natural wonders and cultural experiences, what would you recommend for first-time visitors to Taiwan?
Dr. Liu: I would recommend that first-time visitors explore a mix of both natural and cultural attractions. Start with Beitou for a hot spring experience combined with a visit to the local museums that delve into the history of the area. Then head to Yangmingshan National Park to enjoy the stunning landscapes and perhaps hike up to some of the volcanic features. Don’t forget to participate in local festivals like the Keelung Jungwon Festival for an authentic cultural immersion. And of course, cycling around Taitung and taking in the coastal views is a must!
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Liu! Your insights truly enhance our understanding of Taiwan’s geothermal tourism and its cultural dimensions. We appreciate your time and knowledge today.
Dr. Liu: Thank you for having me! I hope to see more travelers embracing Taiwan’s beautiful offerings.
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This interview serves as a wonderful overview of Taiwan’s geothermal tourism while highlighting both its natural beauty and rich cultural festivities. It’s a destination where visitors can experience relaxation and adventure in equal measure!