Travel
"Hanzawa Naoki" Boosts Sales: Japanese Izakaya "Otokoya" Returns the Favor in Kind
The popularity of the Japanese drama "Hanzawa Naoki" continues to spread. Although the finale aired on September 22, its ripple effects are still gaining momentum. The izakaya "たいこ茶屋" (tentatively translated as "Drum Tea House") featured in the Tokyo arc of the drama has not only seen a significant rise in recognition due to the "Hanzawa" craze, but the shop has also introduced a "Hanzawa Set Meal" to attract even more customers.
Native Koelreuteria trees in Taiwan bloom, turning city streets “golden yellow”
Autumn has arrived, and Taiwan’s koelreuteria trees are in full bloom. Over 6,000 of them in New Taipei City have burst into yellow blossoms along roadsides, lifting the spirits of drivers who pass by. Later, when the flowering season ends, the sight of red-brown seed pods covering the trees adds even more vibrant colors to the urban landscape.
Shanghai-born “sleep tester” visits Taiwan to experience “the most beautiful scenery is the people”
“In my heart, Taiwan is not just a place where every spot is worth visiting. Most importantly, I truly felt that in Taiwan, ‘the most beautiful scenery is the people.’” Qingyu Chujì, from Shanghai, is a professional photographer who loves food, fun, and travel. This was already his second trip to Taiwan. Recalling his first visit, what impressed him the most wasn’t the delicious food or scenic views, but the “people of Taiwan” who always treat others with genuine kindness.
"Soaring" into Happiness: Kaohsiung International Airport Terminal Becomes a New Hotspot for Wedding Photography
Capturing the most beautiful wedding photos at famous scenic spots or landmarks has always been a favorite among couples. Since last year, Kaohsiung International Airport Terminal has allowed a limited number of 10 couples to take wedding photos within the controlled area of the terminal building. Even after the program ended in March this year, numerous couples continued to inquire about it. Therefore, the terminal has decided to reopen the opportunity starting this month, removing the quota limit. However, a service fee of NT$500 will be charged.
Surge in Chinese Tourists Sparks Business Opportunities; Thai Hotels Plan to Raise Prices Next Year
With the rise of China, more and more mainlanders have the financial means to travel abroad. Thai hotel operators are optimistic about the future potential of the Chinese tourist market in Thailand and plan to increase room rates starting next year.
The Little Yellow Duck has been in Taiwan for less than a week and has already attracted 500,000 visitors to Kaohsiung
The Little Yellow Duck has sparked a nationwide craze. On its opening day, 200,000 people flocked to Glory Pier to catch a glimpse of the duck, and another 100,000 visited on the 20th morning. Despite being briefly sidelined due to Typhoon Usagi, the duck resumed display in the afternoon on the 22nd and still drew 150,000 visitors. Even on Monday, 60,000 people came to admire it. Organizers report that in just four days of exhibition, the total number of visitors has exceeded 500,000, surpassing expectations.
Fu Jen University’s ice cream reopens; special flavors draw huge crowds during opening week
Pineapple, ice cream, and waffles are the three most popular treats at Fu Jen University, but the university’s ice cream has especially gained a massive following. After undergoing summer renovations and expanding its storefront, it reopened on the 23rd. In addition to classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and mixed, special flavors were offered during the opening week. On the 23rd, it was “yogurt ice cream with mango sauce,” while the 24th featured “blueberry yogurt,” attracting large crowds of Fu Jen students and faculty who lined up to try the new flavors.
Wonderful sight: A century-old tree in Taipei pierces through the roof of a single-story house, coexisting with humans for 60 years
Located at the intersection of Roosevelt Road and Nanhai Road, in front of Taipei’s South Gate Market, stands what is known as “Taipei’s No. 1 Wonder Tree.” Inside an old single-story house that has stood for decades, the trunk of the tree grows up from the ground, extends through the house, and spreads out over the roof. The entire home is shaded by green leaves, forming a unique scene of “tree-house symbiosis.”
Time-Honored Ribs Old Shop – A nostalgic taste from Mom’s middle school days
It’s been ages since I’ve eaten at a food court, and food court offerings always surprise me in ways that make me want to spit out my food with amazement. But it’s rare to find something in a food court that makes Mom-Mi stop in her tracks. This time, Mi-Te had no choice but to give up persuading her to get 21st Century Roast Chicken and instead joined her in trying out this “Time-Honored Ribs Old Shop” from Ximending that has set up shop inside RT-Mart Neihu No. 2, to see if it tastes just as good as she remembered from back in the day.
Tickets can be booked via mobile phone up to 5 minutes before departure High-speed rail APP services are more convenient
Traveling by high-speed rail will be even more convenient in the future. Starting today, passengers using the “Taiwan High-Speed Rail T Express” mobile ticketing service will have the final booking cutoff time shortened to just 5 minutes before departure. With a simple “beep,” passengers can quickly pass through the gate and board the train, avoiding long queues.
I could just eat them all up—the macarons and mousse cakes have all transformed into little yellow ducks!
The Yellow Duck craze continues to sweep the nation. Riding this wave of yellow-themed popularity, not only in travel and accommodations but also in merchandise, the cute yellow duck has become a consumer favorite. Hotels in Kaohsiung have launched a Yellow Duck set meal, featuring dishes made with duck meat. The meal is topped off with classic desserts shaped like the little yellow duck. Customers can also opt to pay extra for a sculpted "Macaroon Duck" made using macaron techniques, plus receive an entry ticket to the 74th-floor observation deck to see the Yellow Duck. The business revealed that they have already sold 400 sets of these duck-themed meals.
The lakes on Coron Island in the Philippines are crystal-clear — the ultimate healing getaway for office workers
Coron Island is a relatively new tourist destination in the Philippines, boasting seven beautiful and crystal-clear lakes, making it an ideal healing spot for office workers. Located at the northernmost tip of the Calamian Islands in northern Palawan, Philippines, it is a horseshoe-shaped island situated midway between Manila and Puerto Princesa. The city of Coron comprises Coron Island, part of Busuanga Island, and over 20 other smaller islands.
Lukang Osmanthus Lane Art Village – Experience Crafts in a Japanese-Inspired Setting
The culturally rich town of Lukang boasts numerous historic sites, and one of its newly popular attractions in recent years, the “Osmanthus Lane Art Village,” exudes an intellectual and cultural atmosphere. As Changhua County’s first art village, it was originally renovated from Japanese-style dormitories—just like the former street chief’s residence that now houses the Lukang Town History Museum, both built during the Japanese colonial Showa era. Visitors can enjoy a unique Lukang experience amid the nostalgic Japanese ambiance.
Tokyo’s Sensoji Temple’s Kaminarimon Gate Lantern Removed for Repairs; Photo to Replace It Until Mid-November
Tokyo’s famous shrine “Sensoji Temple” is carrying out external renovation work in the Kaminarimon area from now until November 15. Some parts of the area around Kaminarimon will only be accessible during limited hours. Additionally, the large red lantern at the entrance bearing the characters for “Kaminarimon” has been taken down for its once-every-ten-years paper re-pasting maintenance. It is expected to be rehung in mid-November.
"Taiwan’s Favorite Travel Destination" — TransAsia Airways Launches Flights to Tokyo
TransAsia Airways announced the launch of flights to Japan’s capital, with its inaugural service from Taipei (Taoyuan) to Tokyo (Narita) on the 26th. A celebratory press conference was held today, along with the official launch of TransAsia Airways’ WeChat account and the unveiling of eight exclusive animated stickers to mark the occasion.
EVA Air’s international services get another upgrade – Take a look at the Hollywood views from its new VIP lounge in Los Angeles
EVA Air has further upgraded its international flight services. Starting September 25, the “Star Alliance,” of which EVA Air is a member, officially launched a new VIP lounge at Terminal B (TBIT) of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), offering services to first-class and business-class passengers of Star Alliance member airlines, as well as Star Alliance Gold card members.
Hualien Yuli Noodles Festival: 53 Certified Delicious Noodle Shops Unveiled
Hualien’s Yuli rice is renowned far and wide, and the chewy, springy Yuli noodles are no less impressive. The 2013 Yuli Noodles Festival kicks off on the 25th, launching a food map to guide visitors in searching out a total of 53 locally acclaimed noodle shops. Tourists who dine at these establishments can join a one-month points collection campaign—collect five points for a chance to win great prizes such as tablets, computer monitors, and accommodation vouchers.
National Day Fireworks in Hsinchu – "Sisters" to Headline Three Weeks of Celebrations Starting Sept. 28
For the first time, this year’s National Day fireworks will be held in Hsinchu, with shows every weekend for three consecutive weeks starting on the 28th. The first event kicks off at Dongguanpu, featuring performances headlined by popular entertainer “Sister” Xie Jinying. On National Day night at Hsinchu Fishing Port, the most spectacular fireworks display in the history of National Day celebrations will light up the sky for a full 20 minutes, including the largest-diameter fireworks ever launched. Local delicacies such as Hsinchu-style meatballs will also be available at food stalls.
Feel the sea breeze and listen to the sound of the waves at Qialulan Recreation Area – enjoy the most beautiful ocean scenery
Qialulan Recreation Area is located at kilometer 157.7 on Provincial Highway 11. In addition to a large expanse of beautiful lawn, it also features rest pavilions and an observation deck. From the observation deck, you’ll be greeted by the deep blue sea meeting the sky — a stunning sea and sky horizon. The vast and profound Pacific Ocean sends waves rolling in toward you. With the sea breeze in your face, the sound of the waves in your ears, and the warm sunshine overhead, you can spend a truly relaxing time.
Kaohsiung sees massive crowds for Yellow Rubber Duck CNN: Giant duck conquers Taiwan
The adorable Yellow Rubber Duck, whose charm continues to capture hearts, attracted over 100,000 visitors on its first day of display at Kaohsiung’s Glory Pier on the 19th. By the 24th, the cumulative number had surpassed 500,000. On the 25th, CNN featured a news feature describing how Taiwan has been conquered by the Yellow Rubber Duck, with this unprecedented spectacle drawing attention from media both in Taiwan and abroad.