up north

A trip up north to Taipei and surrounding areas has been on my list to do for quite some time (yes, vacations and the planning of them are often on my list to do, but you'd do the same if you were here). 

I used the handy networking system couchsurfing to find Susan and me free places to stay while up in the capital. This was basically the only detail of our trip that was arranged; everything else was going to be finalized and configured as we went.

Just 45 min. south of Taipei, we visited the Wulai scenic park. 

We didn't expect our transportation to the scenic area to be these small child-like trains. 

The majestic images we saw in our guide books look a little different than the rather unsubstantial falls I'm in front of. 

We took a short tram ride up and over the waterfall to the top of the mountain. Of course, just like any other mountain top, there are activities awaiting (mini amusement park rides, hotel, unused swimming pool, 'lost boy' in neverland activities, etc.)

Susan and I took our own sweet time to do as we pleased at the top of Wulai. 

Cute Asian kids wearing matching outfits

Finding more waterfalls in this overdeveloped 'natural area'

After Wulai, we were able to meet up with our local Feng Yuan friend Lily in her college town Sanxia just outside of Taipei. We spent the night climbing up a mountain looking at fireflies.

We also climbed up one of the biggest Buddhist temples along the mountain, seeing this famous 60 ft. statue as we made our ascent. 

Susan, Lily and I are at the top of the temple overlooking the entire Taipei city valley. 

Just giving the Taipei 101 (world's 2nd tallest building) a small pinch

The next day Lily gave us a tour of her National Taipei University campus. 

Then we shopped till we dropped. (shopping seriously wears me out more than a full day of exercising)

We tried on hats, clothes, and accessories. 

 

The antique Sanxia village was perfect for finding the souvenirs we've been needing. 

Who knows why, but I was the only one who walked away with a purchased hat. 

That evening we met up with some more friends- Taiwanese and Japanese, ate Korean food, and talked about Thailand and southeast Asia. After dinner, my brain was slightly muddled to where my current geographical location was. 

This photo was with our last couchsurfing host. She made for one interesting night. 

Thank you Taipei county for keeping us entertained.