One of the best places for street food in Taiwan can be found in Jiufen 九份. I have heard and read so much from travellers suggesting everyone to visit 九份, regardless the limited days one has. For fear of missing out, we too paid it a visit.
There is never a good time to visit 九份, because it is always crowded, regardless the weather. It is better, of course, not to come during the monsoon period.
Today, being a public holiday, is no exception. Throng of tourists came in coaches and started to stream into the tiny shopping street of Jishan 基山街.
It is a challenge to stroll along the street, especially in the hot, humid and limited space one has.
The trade-off is of course, the wonderful and delicious food on either side of the street.
To be able to enjoy it all, the trick is to come with an empty stomach, and slowly chomp from stall to stall. Om nom nom nom...
The signature sausage lady of 基山街 donning a uniform (sewn into one) that represents Taiwan's most popular boys and girls schools.
Lost in thoughts.
The mushrooms are amazingly huge!
Oooh, those lovely nuts...I mean eggs. Oops!
Melted sugar 麦芽糖 of cartoon characters candy.
Crispy tasting prawn crackers.
Balls made from different types of fishes are worth a try.
With all the walking and eating, a much needed rest is imminent.
Handmade ocarina, a wind musical instrument similar to a flute.
This man hand painted some pieces of ocarina, while showing off his musical talent that attracted us to his shop.
Following the red lanterns would lead us to the theatre street.
Ah Mei Tea House 阿妹茶樓 offers an excellent view of the valley as you enjoy your afternoon tea.
The popular tea house has been beautifully restored. Together with its surrounding buildings and complimented by its architectural elements, one feels being transported back to the 1930-40s era.
The elaborated 霞海城隍廟.
The residences of 九份. Many of the locals have converted their units into cafes, souvenir shops and galleries.
This is the spectacular valley and sea view to wake up to if you have a unit overlooking it.
Although the tourist boom has transformed this town into a popular tourist spot, there are areas that could be improved. The buildings on the hill may have brought more services to the visitors, but they remain old and unsightly. It would certainly help a lot if they spruce up the area with new coats of paint (think Santorini of Greece). Instead of tourists coming in cars, buses and taxis that ply the narrow road and pile the already limited parking facilities, they could install cable cars or trams and transport the tourists up. Not only can it reduce the carbon footprints in the town, the ride could also offer tourists a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains and sea. Perhaps the Taiwan tourism board might see my blog and introduce my idea up. Who knows, my next trip up here could be via a chair-lift.
And another travel trip awaiting....
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