Refreshment for the soul

It's still hot in Taiwan, and it's getting to be the end of November! How is this possible?? Luckily though, it's not nearly as warm as it was a few months ago. So it's been great to head outside and take advantage of the weather before it apparently turns humidly cold and rainy.

In Cantonese, hiking is called "行山". It makes sense, it's about walking. But apparently, people in Taiwan use the term "爬山" instead, which makes me think of rock climbers scaling impossibly steep cliffs. But it means the same thing, even though one sounds so much more impressive!

So today, I went to 爬山. In reality, the hiking trails here aren't even what I would consider trails in the states. These roads are all paved, with lots of built-in wooden stairs for easy traveling. All the vegetation is neatly trimmed to stay off the paths, and little pavilions dot the landscape to give hikers a resting spot.

Still, it was very relaxing yet rejuvenating to do a little exercise on a Sunday morning. Better yet, I was able to do this with a friend, and thus I felt like I got a good workout physically, mentally, and emotionally!

Lots and lots and lots of stairs

18 Peaks Mountain is a park area located pretty smack dab in the middle of Hsinchu, a town about an hour train ride away from Taoyuan. I think the park would be prettier in the Spring, when there are flowers blooming. Still, we got some nice views as we walked upwards.

The city of Hsinchu down below

One of the many pavilions that are scattered around the park. This
one was surprisingly empty; many of the others were filled with
older residents who were out strolling for the day.

Can I randomly bump into a temple in Hsinchu? Why yes, I can.

It seems counterproductive to tire myself out physically before the start of a workweek, but a long peaceful night's sleep should take care of that. Looking forward to more outdoor activities as long as the weather permits!