Road Trip from Taipei to Kaohsiung: Qingjing Farm

Little did we know what our cousins had planned for the next leg of our road trip. It was one sweet surprise after another.

Taiwan may be relatively small, but its landscapes are incredibly diverse. Within minutes of leaving Taichung, the city gives way to winding mountain roads, forested hills, and spectacular scenery.

Perched nearly 5,740 feet (1,750 meters) above sea level in Nantou County, Qingjing Farm feels like another world. With its European-inspired architecture, cool mountain air, and sweeping views, the area has an almost alpine feel. Green hills stretch into the distance as clouds drift across the mountain peaks. It was a nippy 55.4°F (13°C) when we checked into Qingjing Farm Guest House.

The next morning, we got up bright and early and made our way down the hill to find a good spot for the famous sheep-shearing show. Afterward, the sheep were let loose to roam among the spectators, who could purchase food to feed them. It was a fun and memorable way to start the day!

Aren't they adorable?

We walk through the rolling Green Green Grasslands to a mesmerizing equestrian show. 

Then we explore scenic mountain trails with sweeping views of the Central Mountain Range, passing by food vendors, horses and of course, even more sheep along the way.

Then it was off to nearby Puli for lunch at Su Mama’s Tangyuan (蘇媽媽湯圓), a popular spot serving  traditional Taiwanese favorites like tofu, noodles, and tangyuan (sweet rice balls). She's even been featured on YouTube (see below)! The line was long, but it moved quickly, and we soon settled in for a delicious taste of local flavors.

tangyuan or sweet rice balls served in a sugary syrup

Wonton noodle with meat sauce

a tofu dish

The scenic mountain views and famous green pasture, with sheep and horses grazing peacefully along the hillside, made this detour a perfect escape. Add in some delicious Taiwanese favorites, and it turned out to be another unexpected gem of our road trip. A big shout-out to our cousins for adding this special stop to our itinerary!

This post is shared on Skywatch Friday. 

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