Classic Itineraries
Social Digest – Bison Blocking the Path at Qingtian Gang? Hikers Frightened
A 49-year-old man surnamed Liu was hiking alone from Qingtian Gang toward Fengzui Zui yesterday evening when he encountered a large herd of bison blocking his path and trapping him. He quickly called 119 for help. The Taipei City Fire Department braved thick fog and used the sound of a whistle to locate him by ear, eventually finding Mr. Liu, but the herd of bison had already disappeared.
Travel for Independent Exploration by Mainland Visitors – Gazing at Guandu Plain from the South
From Taipei National University of the Arts to Zhongyi Mountain, there are both leisurely and easy walking trails as well as challenging slopes for a good workout. Standing on the ridge, you can take in the entire view of the Tamsui River to the north and the Guandu Plain to the south — making it a great spot to admire the Taipei Basin. Viewing the Taipei Basin from the Yangmingshan area, the southwest and southern sides are the downtown districts of Taipei, where rows of high-rises form the main landscape. However, from Zhongyi Mountain on the northern side of the Taipei Basin, because it’s farther from the city center and closer to the Guandu Plain, the view before you is fresh and green, full of natural charm. ”A Leisurely Stroll from Taipei National University of the Arts” Zhongyi Mountain, at an elevation of 233 meters, is a small hill that extends from the Xiaopingding Plateau. Its former names were “A-Lao-Bie Mountain” or “Xiao-Bali-Ben Mountain.” It is an extension of the Datun Mountain range stretching southwestward and also an area covered by lava flows from the Datun volcanic eruptions. Whether it's dawn or dusk, this place is bustling with people engaging in sports and leisure. The main reason is that from Taipei National University of the Arts to the highest sea-view platform at the back of the campus, the slope is gentle, featuring wide, straight asphalt roads for walking. You can also choose to meander through the wooded paths on campus, making it a “leisurely route” perfect for relaxation.
Challenging the Guinness World Record: 6,136 People Conquer Xiong Mountain Together
Taiwan’s outdoor recreation giant Outopia held a two-day event to challenge the Guinness World Record for the most people climbing Xiong Mountain simultaneously. The activity took place across ten hiking routes in northern, central, and southern Taiwan. One of the record-eligible routes, the Kaohsiung Shoushan route, saw 401 participants complete it, while another non-record-supporting cheer route attracted nearly 5,000 participants, creating an impressive scene. Outopia noted that the current officially certified Guinness World Record for the most people climbing a mountain together is 600 in the UK, and the Philippines once recorded 5,923 participants, though that is still under application. This time, Outopia will apply for a new Guinness Record with 6,136 participants, marking a commemoration for the 100th anniversary of the Republic of China. Outopia planned ten Guinness hiking routes across northern, central, and southern Taiwan, with the Kaohsiung Shoushan route being one of them. Yesterday at 8:30 AM, over 400 participants set off from Neiwei Elementary School in Gushan District, Kaohsiung, starting their climb from the Longquan Temple entrance of Shoushan.
Autumn Wasp Attacks: 14 Hikers Stung
After the Mid-Autumn Festival, it’s once again the active season for hornets. On the 18th, two hiking groups were attacked by swarms of hornets while climbing Shentai Mountain in Shitan and Jiangmaya Leisure Agriculture Area in Dahu, resulting in 14 people being stung. Fortunately, all those sent to the hospital are in stable condition. The hikers were still shaken after escaping danger, and firefighters were kept busy all morning dealing with the hornet attacks. The Miaoli County Fire Department received a report at around 9:38 a.m. yesterday that tourists who had entered the mountain through the Xianshan Trailhead in Shitan Township and were heading toward Shentai Mountain at the border of Nanzhuang and Sanwan were attacked by hornets, with several people stung. The Third Disaster Relief and Ambulance Brigade quickly mobilized a large number of personnel to set up an advance command post at Linding Palace in Xianshan and sent teams into the mountain to carry out search and rescue operations, rescuing the injured hikers one after another. Injured hiker Song Qiwen said that the first sting was on his ear, which swelled up, and he felt uncomfortable all over.
Memories of a Lifetime
’Drama Character’s Widow of Hogan Jiro Talks About the Wushe Incident Recently, indigenous culture and related thematic events have frequently converged, drawing widespread attention from all sectors of society. For instance, the critical and commercial success of the epic film *Seediq Bale*; the completion and premiere of the documentary about the zoologist and Taiwan mountain and indigenous culture enthusiast Torii Kazuo; and the “2011 Pure Indigenous Cultural Festival,” organized by South Village and set to kick off later this month, which has attracted a large number of participants and will span over two months. To join in the celebration, our magazine is launching a special series titled “Indigenous • Hometown • Driving Force,” covering topics such as filling in the gaps about the Wushe Incident, reminiscing about those who loved their hometowns and mountains, the coexistence and preservation of mountain and sea resources and culture, and the genuine integration of indigenous and Han cultures. These scenes and stories aim to help readers gain a deeper understanding of indigenous peoples, show concern for their
Social Fax Machine – Phone positioning and rescue experience help locate lost hiker
A woman surnamed Chen attempted to hike up Mt. Miantian on Yangmingshan the previous evening, setting off alone from Beitou. Due to the late hour, exhaustion, and overly tall grass nearby, she became lost in the mountains. She called for help from firefighters, who used phone positioning and their rescue experience to locate the terrified woman after five hours, bringing the ordeal to a safe end.
Indigenous patrol of water pipes unexpectedly rescues missing hiker
A 27-year-old man surnamed Zhang from Zhunan and his friend, surnamed Xiao, who is in his 50s, went hiking on Jiashan Mountain in Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County, on the 11th. Xiao went down the mountain first, but later Zhang failed to return as expected. Police and firefighters searched the mountain overnight but found nothing until the man was spotted by indigenous people early yesterday morning upstream of Fengmei Creek. He was taken to a police station and then reunited with his parents. On the morning of the 11th, the 27-year-old Zhang and his 50-something friend Xiao hiked together on Jiashan Mountain. Around 2 p.m. during their descent, they encountered an afternoon thunderstorm. The two ran to a shelter to take cover from the rain. When the rain eased, Xiao went down the mountain first, agreeing to meet Zhang at a pavilion near the mountain exit. Xiao waited until nearly 7 p.m. but Zhang still didn’t show up, and his phone was unreachable, so Xiao reported the case to police at 7:30 p.m. After receiving the report, police and firefighters, along with local youth volunteers, searched the mountain in shifts. There was no sign of Zhang that night, but rescuers refused to give up hope and continued searching in the mountains for three consecutive days.
Experience nature and enjoy a cool summer in Hokkaido
Modern people love to escape the hustle and bustle and get close to nature. With Tokyo still sweltering in September, many choose to head to Hokkaido to experience rare outdoor fun and coolness in nature. Just the area around Chitose Airport offers enough activities to keep you busy for days—such as visiting Hokkaido’s dairy farms, going rafting on the Chitose River, watching salmon migrating upstream at the Chitose Salmon Museum, hiking Mount Tarumae, soaking in an open-air hot spring at Lake Shikotsu, and canoeing, all of which are deeply enjoyable. The blue waters and crystal-clear depths of Lake Shikotsu are truly breathtaking. By the lake lies the “hidden hot spring” Marukoma Onsen, established in the Taisho era. The fourth-generation owner, Yoshirou Sasaki, notes that overseas tourists now also stay here for two or three days, mostly for hiking, walking, canoeing, fishing, photography, and some even love to soak in the open-air hot spring all day. The period from mid-to-late October is also the peak season for autumn foliage viewing at Lake Shikotsu.
A Matter of Life—Stepping Beyond Oneself—To Kexiao
I looked up and met your squinting eyes peeking over the cliff edge, smiling. The climbing rope tied around my waist was anchored to you—you were belaying me. “Don’t be afraid,” you blinked as if to say, “Just put your full weight down, and that’s the path.” I suddenly realized: If I could step beyond my own body, I would bloom into a riot of blossoms— —A Blessing (James Wright) I looked up toward the sky and whispered inwardly: Thank you, Kexiao. I’m grateful for your care. Last year, several families with teenagers planned a holiday trip and chose a one-day camping excursion in Wuta, Nan’ao. Not long ago, your book was published. It depicted people’s pursuits and realizations in nature, the deep bonds formed among companions venturing into the mountains and forests—these are all things worth remembering for young people. Moreover, you used “finding the path” as a metaphor, sharing your own pioneering journey, which must have resonated with many stagnant and bewildered middle-aged hearts—God knows who else was there that day besides me.
The Call of the Lady’s Slipper Orchid
In mid-April, a colleague sent photos of blooming lady’s slipper orchids at the mountaintop. Two days later, I set off with four other flower enthusiasts from Kenting, driving seven hours to Jiali Mountain in Miaoli. The next morning, sunlight filtering through the treetops signaled the perfect timing for our flower pilgrimage. Drawn by the sight of Taiwan’s native orchid, which blooms only on sheer cliffs, we eagerly stepped into the trailhead at around 1,350 meters above sea level. The moment we entered the forest, the towering cedar trees lining the path instantly brightened our view. Not far into the hike, we encountered our first beautiful orchid—the broad-leaved Cymbidium, its clusters of pinkish-purple blooms resembling angel wings, delicate and enchanting in the dappled sunlight. My colleagues rushed across the rugged slope to take photos of it. As we ventured further, we realized these terrestrial orchids were scattered throughout the woods.
The typhoon skirted past, leaving Jioming Lake noticeably shrunken
This year, four typhoons bypassed Taiwan, and due to the lack of rainfall, the water surface of Jioming Lake—located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters—has shrunk by nearly half. By August, it had become much smaller, prompting some visitors to joke that the "Angel’s Tear" has become even more heartbreakingly beautiful. This summer, as four typhoons failed to make landfall, the Central Weather Bureau has not yet issued any land typhoon warnings. Without replenishing rainfall, the once oval-shaped Jioming Lake has now contracted into a near circle, with its diameter reduced to only about 70–80 meters. Jioming Lake is situated on the eastern side of Sancha Mountain in the Central Mountain Range, at an elevation of 3,310 meters. It measures approximately 120 meters in length, 80 meters in width, covers an area of about 1.9 hectares, and has a depth of six meters. As the second-highest alpine lake in Taiwan, it is known for its oval shape and strikingly azure waters, earning it the nickname "Angel’s Tear." A hiker surnamed Lu stated...
Mountain climbing communication technology: Strengthening R&D
Just yesterday, President Lin Kehsiao of Taishin Financial Group went mountain climbing in Nanao. He had originally hoped to explore an ancient Atayal trail, but unexpectedly fell to his death in a valley due to weather conditions or other factors. This mountain climbing accident may serve as a warning for those who enjoy hiking, as it highlights the risks of mountaineering accidents. There have been no shortage of such incidents in the past, and every time a tragedy occurs—especially when hikers enter restricted areas in severe weather—firefighters and rescue personnel often feel that the human, financial, and resource costs involved in saving a single person are staggering and simply shouldn’t happen.
Ng Dongliang sincerely mourns and personally visits the Lin family to pay condolences
Yesterday, Taishin Financial Holding released a press statement and material information indicating that, as confirmed by rescue authorities, Lin Kexiao, General Manager of Taishin Financial, unfortunately passed away in a mountain-climbing accident involving a fall off a cliff. After the incident, the situation was reported to the Financial Supervisory Commission. The appointment of a new General Manager will be discussed at a future board meeting. Company operations remain normal, and Chief Financial Officer Lin Weijun will assume the role of future spokesperson. Rescue authorities confirmed yesterday afternoon that Lin Kexiao had been deceased for some time. Taishin Financial Holding stated that all colleagues were deeply shocked and saddened. Chairman Ng Dongliang and executives at all levels have visited the Lin family to express condolences and assist with follow-up matters. Taishin Financial Holding pointed out that the appointment of the financial holding company’s General Manager will be discussed at a future board meeting. Currently, the management team remains at their posts, and company operations continue unaffected. Taishin Financial Holding said that Lin Kexiao was humble and courteous, treating employees with kindness and always being considerate of their hard work, earning him the love and support of his colleagues.
Falling in Love with the Atayal People, Aspiring to Conquer All Taiwan’s Peaks — Lin Kexiao’s Quest for Trails
Although he is the General Manager of Taishin Financial Holdings, among his close fellow hikers, Lin Kexiao is simply seen as a humble and easygoing climbing enthusiast. But the moment the conversation turns to hiking and indigenous culture, his deep passion and reverence for the mountains immediately shine through. Years ago, after an unexpected encounter with the culture of the Atayal tribe, his interest in exploring ancient indigenous sites deepened — but this also led to a tragic cliff-falling accident. Though his expertise lies in the field of finance, Lin Kexiao has never stopped pursuing his love for mountaineering. He once told fellow hikers that he was determined to fulfill a common dream shared by all climbers during his lifetime: conquering Taiwan’s 100 Peaks. Just four years ago, after accidentally coming across the heritage culture of the Atayal tribe, he became deeply immersed in the thrill of exploring and studying cultural ruins. Since then, he has set aside time every year to venture into the mountainous regions of Nan’ao in search of indigenous heritage sites. Not only that, he also transformed
Mount Tai, the Foremost of China’s Five Great Mountains
Mount Tai, hailed as the foremost of China’s Five Great Mountains, is one of the world’s rare dual natural and cultural heritage sites and a UNESCO Global Geopark. Emperors throughout history revered and worshipped at Mount Tai, praying for peace and prosperity in the nation. More than just a mountain, Mount Tai symbolizes the spiritual essence of the Chinese nation. Mount Tai is located in Tai’an City, covering an area of 426 square kilometers, with its main peak rising 1,545 meters above sea level. Surrounded by plains, the mountain that rises abruptly from the earth appears even more towering and majestic. With millennia of history and culture converging here, Mount Tai is not only the foremost of the Five Great Mountains but also acclaimed as the “Foremost Mountain Under Heaven.” Sunrise and Sunset, Both Breathtaking Whether it’s the beauty of sunrise and sunset in climatic landscapes, the charm of water features like the Black Dragon Waterfall and mountain springs, or the splendor of blooming flowers and red foliage in different seasons—when you visit Mount Tai, all its beauty unfolds before your eyes and stirs your soul.
The Best of May: Recommended Honeymoon Destinations in Southeast Asia
Late spring to early summer (May to June) each year is a peak season for outbound travel. There is strong demand for honeymoon and leisure vacation routes abroad. Southeast Asia, with its moderate distance, beautiful scenery, and affordable costs, remains the top choice for Chinese travelers. ... ...
An 86-year-old veteran hiker completes an 8-hour rugged mountain loop trail
The draft of the Tourism Law reviewed at the second session of the 12th National People's Congress Standing Committee on the 23rd focused on scenic spot ticketing, emphasizing that any proposed price hikes must be announced six months in advance, public hearings should be held for planned increases, and tourists must not be forced to pay tips or shop against their will.
Department Store Lucky Bags Battle: Compete for a One-Carat Diamond Pendant
Snatching lucky bags on the first day of the Lunar New Year is a major highlight for department store promotions. This year, with new players Far Eastern and Greenery Park joining the competition in Taichung, the grand prize for the lucky bags goes to Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Taichung. The top prize is a one-carat diamond pendant worth NT$400,000, along with other prizes including a BMW off-road mountain bike. Merchants guarantee that spending NT$1,000 will get you at least a gift worth NT$5,000. Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Taichung is hailed as the king of department stores in Taiwan, having achieved an annual single-store turnover of NT$17.1 billion last year. This year, facing new competitors, the department store’s lucky bags focus on luxury goods and 3C products, priced at NT$1,000 each, with a limited quantity of 500. Cao Meihong, the store manager of Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Taichung, pointed out that the contents of each bag are guaranteed to be worth over NT$5,000, and the grand finale draw for the top prize includes a Just Diamond one-carat diamond necklace, the second prize being a BMW off-road mountain bike worth NT$270,000, along with other great gifts such as designer handbags, massage chairs, iPads, and digital cameras.
Kaohsiung Sports Season Kicks Off with Phoenix Mountain Hike
The opening event of the second Kaohsiung City Sports Season, a hike up Phoenix Mountain (formerly Chicken Mother Mountain), was held yesterday morning. Over 2,000 citizens, many with their families, braved the cold to complete the 5-kilometer trek. Director of the Education Bureau, Tsai Ching-hua, stated that the sports season will also feature an international marathon, forest tree climbing, korfball, and a fitness health party, and encouraged everyone to join in. At 7:00 a.m., participants began their 5-kilometer mountain hike from South Wan Tou Lane at the Phoenix Mountain entrance in Fengshan District. Phoenix Mountain, previously a restricted military zone, was off-limits for years, making this the first visit for many hiking enthusiasts, who were amazed by the beauty of the long-sealed-off woodland. Chen Wu-hsiung, head of the Sports Affairs Department, noted that Phoenix Mountain is located at the border of Fengshan and Daliao districts, originally called Chicken Mother Mountain, with the highest elevation at 71 meters. It was once a field training ground for the Army Officer Academy and the Army Infantry School.
Trending Topic – Mandatory Mountain Climbing Insurance Should Be Implemented
An HTC engineer, Kang Jicheng, fell into a valley while climbing Nanhua Mountain alone. To rescue him, hundreds of personnel from the Fire Department and civilian rescue teams were mobilized, along with a helicopter, costing nearly two million New Taiwan Dollars in social resources. Fortunately, the rescue was successful. In Taiwan, similar mountain rescue incidents are actually not uncommon.