Welcome to Day 5 of our Taiwan adventure, where we explore the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this vibrant island. Today, we’ll journey into the surreal terrain of Tianliao Moon World, a stunning geological wonder that invites you to experience the beauty of Taiwan’s natural formations.
Then, we’ll stroll through the charming streets of Qishan Old Street, a historic marketplace that showcases traditional snacks and crafts, immersing you in local culture. Finally, our visit to the majestic Fo Guang Shan, one of the world’s largest Buddhist monastic complexes, offers a serene escape and profound spiritual insights.
Join us as we uncover the stories and sights that make this day unforgettable and discover why these unique destinations should be on your travel radar.
First Stop: Tian Liao Moon World
Our day kicked off with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before we set off for our first stop: Tianliao Moon World. Today, we’ve booked an 8-hour taxi tour to zip us around the sights without the hassle.
The drive to Tianliao took about an hour, and interestingly, our driver mentioned that it’s closer to Taichung than to our base in Kaohsiung, being right near the border.
Tianliao Moon World is quite the spectacle, sculpted from mudstone, sandstone, shale, and chalk.
The area offers several stunning vistas that are totally Instagram-worthy. It was also pretty serene, likely because we got there early at about 10 a.m., and there weren’t many people around yet.
We managed to explore the entire park in just about an hour before we head to the next destination
Next Stop: Qishan Old Street and Meinong Folk Village
Originally, we planned to stop by Qishan Old Street en route to Meinong Folk Village for lunch. However, the rain decided to join us, prompting a change in plans.
We headed straight to Meinong Folk Village, nestled in the Meinong District of Kaohsiung. This charming little village, brimming with simple beauty, showcases a rich array of Hakka culinary delights and a vibrant display of local culture and arts.
After enjoying a hearty lunch and a brief tour around the village, the rain eased slightly, and we ventured back to Qishan Old Street.
Despite the wet weather, the street was alive with the bustle of vendors selling an assortment of snacks and foods that reminded us of a night market. We took a leisurely stroll, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the unique tastes of Qishan, making the best of our rainy day excursion.
Last Stop: Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum
After wandering around Qishan Old Street, we made our way to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. Unfortunately, we couldn’t see everything there as my daughter and I started feeling a bit under the weather after our lunch in Meinong.
A Bit About Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum isn’t just a place; it’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of Buddhist philosophy and art. Established in 2011, the museum is part of the Fo Guang Shan Monastery complex, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Taiwan.
The museum’s purpose goes beyond preservation and education; it’s a beacon promoting humanistic Buddhism, aiming to foster peace and understanding among different cultures through spiritual and cultural exchanges.
The museum is famous for housing one of the world’s largest Buddha statues, standing over 100 feet tall and watching over the eight pagodas that line the path to the main hall. These pagodas, representing different aspects of Buddha’s teachings, contribute to the museum’s tranquil and majestic atmosphere.
Even though our visit was cut short, the serene surroundings and the grandeur of the massive Buddha left a deep impression. It’s a reminder of the peace and resilience that Buddhism has brought to millions across the globe.
