It was a really cold and rainy morning when we set off from Taipei to Wulai.
The season in late December to January were still in winter mode and rain is to be expected.
As the Hot Spring area we are headed too is located in a mountainous region. I find it actually interesting to have hopped on the local public bus (Taking around 45mins maximum). A great way to enjoy the views and getting abit of the local atmosphere on board.
Non airconditioned, a little crowded that day and the familiar chatter in a language I can almost relate to and find comforting. The local Taiwanese dialect and widely spoken, Min Nan yu (闽南语).
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a mild fog and the Nanshi creek 南勢溪.
Nanshi creek 南勢溪, cloudy waters probably from the rainy weather that day. Wulai town on the opposite bank.
Beyond, a Bright Red Bridge beckons, leading to a Chinese Taoist temple.
We were just about in time for the Plum Blossoms to bloom (Early – Mid Feb).
But if you can, go during the blooming of the Cherry Blossoms (Late Feb to March).
Beginnings of the Plum Blossoms.
Wulai lies at the southmost edge of the Taipei County, bordering Taipei. And the only town in the county purely for aborigines, mainly the Atayal people.
The food in Taiwan is definitely one of the main highlights to visiting the country!
What i love was for each town or new location we visit, there is always new things to eat.
And nope, i don’t mean the trendy. There will be a Part 2 to Wulai (乌来) for it’s food @Wulai Old Street 烏來老街.
A welcome sight into Wulai’s small town.
Front Seat with the Log Cart 乌来台车’s driver. A smiley faced grand papa who was more than happy to have company on this ride and showing me the sights as we traveled towards the Wulai Waterfall.
Wulai Waterfall
Brr.. to a cold early afternoon by then.
What better way to enjoy the perks of Wulai than a good slow trek down from the Waterfall’s trail walk towards one of the Hot Spring Bath Houses located down the hill?
And a snack in between. While enjoying the sights and friends for company.
Onigiri in one hand, a bottle of milk on the other. Pure happiness.
The part when the Chinese, Japanese and Tribal cultures come together yet again in a day.
View from our private Bath house nook.
Heat on a Cold Day. Need I say more? (The one reasons why I love cold weather. The appreciation of heat!).
The sound of the rushing river below. And the relaxing of the muscles in a hot tub afterwards from a long hike down. Pure simple luxury.
Private Hot Spring Bath in a casual setup.
Ending the trip with really good stuffed Mochi and a cup of Ginger Tea to warm up the insides.
Ending a long day with a really simple snack, but quality homemade mochi.
Warm and relaxed both on the inside and outside :)
In a nutshell, Wulai was a mildly scenic place to that I would visit for a leisurely day out especially in the cold weather. Where a variety of hot food is available, and best appreciated soaking your weary body in a Hot Spring. In peace and quiet.
Don’t forget to visit the temple at the beginnings of Wulai if you can.
The smell of incense at the temple always comforting to me.
Taoist Temple. Which really doesn’t veer very far from the ones we have in Singapore in terms of design and paraphernalia.
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