Taiwan 2014 Day 7: Travelling down to Tainan

After a long journey involving one bus, one taxi, and two trains, we finally arrived in Tainan, Taiwan's ancient capital and the fourth-largest city. The weather was much hotter, and we felt the 32 degrees Celsius while dragging our already overloaded cases through the very busy city looking for a hotel. We eventually found one and were soon out exploring. 

Most of the historic buildings and temples are in close proximity to each other, making it an enjoyable walking tour, with bubble tea of course. Taiwan is the home of bubble tea, and we predict that the Yakut flavor will soon be in the UK

We struggled to get used to the contradictory tourist maps and street signs, which seemed to be the opposite of what they indicated. If it shows right, then turn left 😂😂 or maybe it's our map reading skills. 

It's scorching hot here!!!!!

We started at the Chihkan towers which were built by the Dutch rulers who were better known as ‘the red-haired barbarians’. It is a beautifully kept historic building and a real joy to stroll around and imagine the Dutch people living here.

We wandered around the area and discovered many temples, all used for prayers to different gods for different things. Alanna seemed to take extra interest in the Grand Mazu temple, which is used for praying for a perfect match. 

   

After stopping for a cheese coffee, which we still can't wrap our heads around 😂, we visited the Hayashi Department Store. This store was originally built by the Japanese in 1932 and was famous for its store elevator, which was the first in South Taiwan. We took the elevator up to get a Matcha ice cream, which was delicious. The store was full of traditional and modern Japanese gifts, much like Harrods in London. 

             

We ended our walk at the Confucius temple and reset under the giant banyan tree thoroughly enchanted by this beautiful old city. Even though it is a large city it has a very laid-back feel about it.

Needing some nourishment, we headed back to the modern city center and ate at one of the many outdoor food courts.

 

We found a little late-night cafe just across from our hotel, which had the cutest cakes and was the perfect spot for people-watching. It was a relaxing way to spend the evening.