Ride an iron horse to admire tung blossoms – head to New Taipei’s Hakka homeland on May 12

By Wei Ruyi, compiled and reported

The 2012 New Taipei?] Tung Blossom?] Event?] Aims to attract both domestic and international visitors, offering a rich experience of local cuisine, cycling, cultural exploration, and visits to Hakka cultural villages and other scenic spots. Among the highlights is the event’s “Hakka Cultural Health Challenge,” which will take place on Saturday, June 12. Those interested can register online before June 6, pay a registration fee of NT$100, and upon successful registration, receive premium Hakka magic scarves as well as NT$150 in stall vouchers as valuable giveaways. Registration is limited to 1,000 people.

To encourage the public to admire tung blossoms in diverse ways and enjoy healthy, low-carbon leisure activities, the New Taipei City Hakka Affairs Bureau has specially planned a beautiful and challenging cycling route. Starting from Tucheng Station (Tucheng Elementary School) on the MRT, the route ends at the Sanxia Hakka Cultural Park, covering a total distance of 25.3 kilometers. The organizers will set up two rest and supply stations along the way, located at the Tucheng Tung Blossom Park — where the blossoms are most abundant — and in front of the Golden Emperor Restaurant plaza. Participants who reach the finish line will receive a “Completion Certificate.” The park also offers a variety of dining options, DIY experience activities, and free guided tours. Those who complete all checkpoints can also join a lucky draw.

A representative from the New Taipei City?] Hakka Affairs Office said during the press conference: “This year’s Hakka Tung Blossom event is specially designed to allow participants from various regions to not only enjoy the beauty of tung blossoms but also explore local agricultural experiences. Visitors can ride to different scenic spots to admire the blossoms, learn detailed information about the event, and if they plan their route in advance, they can also enjoy more surprises when participating in the event.”

Event registration website: Hakkabike.twr2.com

●  Extended reading: Limited-edition tung blossom train makes its maiden voyage today, appearing at irregular times at Taiwan Railway stations until June 15

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