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I
woke up at 5 a.m., freezing cold and tired, in a tent
pitched on top of a mountain. It should have been the
start of a miserable day. That it wasn't owed everything
to the beauty of the area.
My
visit to Tatajia began very well. Arriving the previous
night and declining the relative comforts of the Dongpu
Village Hostel (tel: 0928-358-307), and the company
of the other campers sleeping in the public car park,
I made my way to the top of Linjhihshan mountain.
The
night sky was beautiful and, being so far from the bright
lights of either a city or mountain resort, was also
incredibly clear. The area is a popular destination
for stargazers from all over Taiwan.
Though
such beauties are only a fading memory at five in the
morning, I did not wish to have them back. The reason
being that sunrise in Tatajia is no ordinary affair.
The morning sky is awash with colors that change and
develop as night becomes day. It is one of the most
incredible things I have ever seen. With that in mind
I set out to explore Tatajia.
Though
I found picturesque forests containing a rich and varied
wildlife, my image of the area, an image which will
ensure I visit again and again, is one of openness.
From the stunning mountain scenery to the lack of people,
shops and hotels, to even the air you breath, everything
suggests space.
The
Tatajia Recreational Area contains many hiking trails.
Though many offer great views of Yushan(Jade Mt.), you
absolutely have to make your way to Linjhihshan. The
panoramic view of the Yushan, Alishan, and Central Mountain
Ranges you receive from the summit is spectacular.
For
Chinese and English language maps and information, call
or stop by the Tatajia Visitors' Center (tel: 049-270-2200).
Tatajia can be reached by car or motorcycle; there is
no bus service. If you are coming from south Taiwan,
drive to Alishan, then continue inland along Provincial
Highway 18. If you are coming from Sun Moon Lake, drive
southward on Provincial Highway 21. Tatajia is where
routes 18 and 21 meet.
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