It’s been over two years since I last visited Meinong in Kaohsiung. This time, I participated inJuenjoyevent, reconnecting with old friends to soak in the festive reunion atmosphere. Perhaps the Kaohsiung Bridge, having endured the ruthless destruction of nature twice, still showcases the resilience of the local people. The bridge may be broken, but it can be repaired. But does the beautiful memory of hometown in the hearts of those who’ve left still remain?
I remember when I first started working in sales twenty years ago. Due to the geographical environment, industrial development here wasn’t as convenient as in coastal areas, so the Meinong Commercial District hasn’t changed much. But that strong rural camaraderie made this revisit feel incredibly warm and welcoming.
During the Japanese colonial period, Meinong in Kaohsiung was one of Taiwan’s important camphor production areas. Because camphor oil extraction required a large workforce, taro — originally not grown here — was introduced by Hakka people from Miaoli, giving rise to various taro products such as taro ice, taro paste cake, taro pastry, and taro | junpan??, all leaving a lingering, delightful aftertaste.
There are also local specialty fried foods worth trying. Here, a group of people is working together to revitalize Meinong’s commercial district. Beyond everyone making money, it’s even more important to provide a source of happiness for the elders living here, so that those working away from home can do so with peace of mind. Often wandering through the countryside, I’ve realized that the most crucial aspect of “regional revitalization” is ensuring three meals a day; only then will more locals be willing to return, and only then will the smiles of the elderly be truly genuine. Meinong has many small sights and hidden gems, like the century-old camphor tree in front of the police station. In the 31st year of the Guangxu era, during a severe malaria outbreak, the area was covered with camphor forests. The Japanese relocated here and established the “Taiwan Camphor Cultivation Company,” engaging in camphor production, which was once the economic lifeline of Meinong. Also, because visitors traveling along the South Cross-Island Highway treated Meinong as a stopover, the back of restaurants became a place where cats foraged and a playground for local children — reminiscent of happy childhood days. The alleys also hold many unique spots not to be missed, like Wudong fhang, which specializes in traditional pickled mustard greens and, during the plum season, creates limited-time seasonal products like crispy plums. Speaking of this, my mouth is already watering — I really want to try some!
Wudong fhang
Phone: 07-6751005
Address: No. 55, He’an St., Meinong District, Kaohsiung City
It’s just not yet the peak plum season, so the owner specially shared with us some he had preserved for personal use. Though not for sale, it was still offered to us — that’s the warmest feeling between people. The phoenix tree at the Kaohsiung Bus Meinong Station, waiting for spring in winter and bursting into bloom in summer, offers a uniquely charming vibe in different seasons, providing a particularly aesthetic experience. The Meinong National Treasure Reunion Banquet is a collaboration of nine different restaurants and farming households. It’s not just a series of dishes, but also a symbol of the united spirit among the people of Meinong, where there’s no division between you and me, only a shared desire to make Meinong better. While enjoying the food, listening to the story behind each dish adds a special flavor. It’s just a bit of a shame that it’s only held once. In the afternoon, we headed to Shanlin Haojiayuan, a nonprofit social welfare organization registered as a legal entity. Its mission is to empower women, promote community development, integrate social resources, support one another, foster a spirit of mutual aid and learning opportunities, enhance residents’ participation in public affairs, promote shared social benefits, and establish a community-based social welfare support network.
Limited-time sign-up:https://goo.gl/nkvGyp
Be a little crafting genius, experience farm life in the sacred fir fields, make your own pizza, and enjoy an in-depth tour of Jiaxian that showcases its time-honored charm.
Featuring earth artist on 2/24—
Limited-time sign-up:https://goo.gl/zV92g1
Be among the first to act as a little artist, create your own landscape art, explore deeper into the streets and alleys of Jiaxian, and admire the colorful art villages. Immerse yourself in a rich artistic atmosphere. Jiaxian parent-child experience itinerary:
Pig-certified brown sugar DIY and Commander Taro Ice DIY
This event is guided by
Guiding unit: Kaohsiung City Government Department of Economic Development
Organizer: Jiaxian Image Business District Promotion Association, Kaohsiung City
Co-organizer: ~? Mie Sha Ying Co., Ltd.
Facebook page:Joenjoy
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###Everyone has different preferences; only through personal experience can you discover the little touches that make each place special.###