Yehliu Geopark, Yangmingshan National Park and Shopping in Port Keelung
Seven of us met on the 5th floor of the ship's atrium and headed out to board the ship's shuttle from our container shipping dock to the main commercial area of Port Keelung. Princess charges a USD10 flat fee for return shuttles into the main area's of any port. On previous cruises we hadn't always been charged but in today's economic climate there always seems to be a charge. But then we never had a kettle with cups and saucers to make a hot drink in our cabins, now we do. Swings and roundabouts!
We negotiated a 7 seater taxi for the day to take us to the northeastern area of Taiwan. Unfortunately this car meant 3 of the smaller passengers had to sit in a fairly cramped back section of the vehicle which wasn't very pleasant. We paid about AUD 35 each ($245) which I think was maybe more favorable to the driver but when compared to a ship's tour, we were in front. I suppose win win.
We headed along the scenic coastal road to Yehliu Geopark. Cost to enter TWD 80 about AUD 3.50. Our driver offered us an umbrella each which I am happy to admit to accepting and thankful to have protection from the intense sun's rays whilst we walked around the remarkable formations.
Coastal Road from Port Keelung to Yehliu Geopark.
Limestone effected by marine erosion.
Me standing amongst mushroom shaped rocks.
Sea eroded caves
Just a normal day in the middle of the week.......can you imagine what it would be like to walk here on a public holiday?
Someone in our group requested to see a thermal spring spa, so off we headed, along the coast road for a while then off the main highway into the countryside past rice fields which seemed to be squashed in between housing.
The road ran along and around quite a few rice fields
A thermal spring spa resort's offering different degrees of temperature pools. Some were really hot and I wonder if people ever go into them, though there were others of lesser temperatures. The place looked really run down.
Datun Volcano Group, Yangingsham National Park.
As the car ascended into the high mountain we could look over to see a small town nestled in a valley between some of the mountains.
Landslide off to the side of the road, note the steam coming out.
The Azalea and Camellia clock garden with a pergola on the hilltop in the back ground.
Port Keelung Miaokou Night Market.
The streets around and in the night market are full of food stands
Fashion bling. I wish I had changed more money!
Dianji Temple is right in the middle of the night markets. The theme of the carvings corresponds with the livelihood of the ancestors of Keelung. crabs, shells and other marine life carved into the walls.
Plenty of colour and artful carvings in this Taoist Temple.
Our sunset as the Diamond Princess sails away from Port Keelung.
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