if you ever want to visit paradise, just head over to hualien, taiwan. located right next to hualien lies taiwan's version of the grand canyon, toroko gorge.this green haven is made almost completely of marble and granite. the japanese built the road that travels through the gorge to create a native pacification trail for the taiwan aboriginese that live in the gorge. the scenery is unsurpassed as you wind through the valley (which in a tour bus can be a most frightening experience).
we were fortunate to have had a sweet bus driver who took on the role of a speechless tour guide as he didn't speak any english. he stopped off at every noteworthy scenic spot and let us look around. although the weather was off and on light rain, it was just as picturesque as ever. i am still blown away by the beauty and surprised that i have never heard this gem until now. toroko has truly caught my attention.
a quintessential chinese scene
a taiwan cicada. it was huge and loud! but luckily harmless... which is the only reason i allowed my hand to get that close.
the sweet blue helmets they made us wear for protection
hayley and marissa minding the sign
this is called the eternal spring shrine. it is said that if you dip your feet in the water, your health will be renued. unfortunately they closed off the spring but i somehow managed to at least wash my hands with it... maybe it will keep my health up for half of my life?
i'm in love!
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