Taiwan Trip Day 2: 台北, 野柳, 九份, 南天宫, 花莲

Woke up at 0530 today, just so we could avoid the rush crowd on the HSR. Reached 桃园 HSR station at 0730, and took the 高铁 to 台北, then transferred to the MRT to 中正纪念堂. A few pictures later and we were off in the coach to 野柳.

野柳 was packed with tourists, mostly "陆客" as our tour guide pointed out. The crowds and the rain really put a damper on spirits. Ended up taking a photo of the "女皇头" replica instead of braving the elements all the way to the real one.

We were whisked to 九份老街 for lunch. It being a Sunday, the place was packed with locals. Still, I managed to eat some good grub.

Highlights: 贡丸汤, 椒盐杏鲍菇, 黑猪肉香肠 (综合: Original, black pepper and mentaiko)

Lowlights: 肉圆 (wasn't too bad, but an acquired taste perhaps), 臭豆腐 (same as the previous)

After lunch we went to 南天宫 to see 金身妈祖 and to offer some prayers. Impressive temple.

After that we embarked on a 150min ride through winding mountain roads to 花莲, where we watched a traditional 阿美族 dance performance.

Dinner was a traditional 风味餐, but was forgettable.

Tomorrow: Hotsprings at 台东!