Hot air balloon flower viewing experience: Magnificent floral blooms in Meinong, Shanlin, and Liugui this Lunar New Year

Text by MOOK Travel Life Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported

 

From now until the end of February is the ideal time for flower viewing excursions, as floral landscapes continue to blossom across Taiwan. To broaden the floral landscape experience, the Kaohsiung City Government’s Civil Affairs Bureau has introduced the concept of a “Grand Floral Zone.” This initiative connects the flower planting areas of Meinong, Shanlin, and Liugui through transportation routes and links them with nearby tourist attractions. It also incorporates local characteristics into travel itineraries, creating an ideal “backyard garden” for festive spring outings during the Lunar New Year.

The Meinong District Office will hold the opening ceremony of the tri-district floral event for the first time on January 19th, with the “2014 Meinong Colorful Earth — Blooming Flowers, Deep Affection, Happy Journey” flower viewing inauguration event taking place by Zhongzheng Lake in Meinong. This year, under the theme “Discovering Flower-Filled Meinong,” the district office will launch a hot air balloon ride activity over the flower fields, offering visitors a bird’s-eye view of the expansive floral landscapes from high above. In addition, the event will feature activities such as orange-honey tomato picking and white radish harvesting, along with local delicacy tastings, exciting performances, and interactive games.

Following that, the Shanlin District Office will host its flower field inauguration event on January 25th in front of the Shanlin Farmers’ Association on Qingshui Road. Here, visitors can enjoy vast fields of sunflowers and experience the cultural charm of Hoklo, Hakka, and indigenous communities, along with local agricultural and artisanal products, all showcasing love and happiness. Meanwhile, the Liugui District Office has planted beautiful flower fields along the Qilu Highway to welcome visitors. In the Baolai area, visitors can also marvel at the breathtaking sight of plum blossoms covering the mountainsides. Tourists are encouraged to plan a trip to Liugui to enjoy the floral scenery along with a relaxing soak in the hot springs. Additionally, Xinyi Forest Park will present a vibrant display of falling leaves in March. Whether enjoying birdsong in the morning or a quiet rest at noon, visitors can stroll along serene tree-lined paths to experience the unique appeal of these three districts. For more details on events, visit the Kaohsiung City Government’s Civil Affairs Bureau website.

 

 

●  Further Reading:

Elegant tulip fields in Central Taiwan – Celebrate the New Year with flower viewing and cycling in Houli

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