Change of Plan, Even Better!

 

I would like to report to you a minor change of or itinerary. Originally we plan to travel across the South Cross Island highway, and visit the south region of the Yushan National Park. However, I was informed that the highway is still under the construction for the damage caused by the typhoon two years ago. This construction is not expected to complete before the end of 2012. The new plan, however, is better!! In the next few weeks, I will introduce those sites and routes we are about to visit, including old and new, in the next few posts.

Taroko National Park

Today I would like to introduce to you the Taroko National Park. “Taroko” means “magnificent and beautiful”. According to the legend, one Truku tribesman traveled cross the center mountain. After weeks of climbing and hiking, he finally found an open pass. Right at the moment he came out the gorge, he saw the magnificent and beautiful Pacific Ocean. He couldn’t help but to sign the praise to the scenery before his eyes. For hundreds of years Trukus leaved in the region peacefully.

The national park, “Tsukitaka” was originally established by Japanese government in 1937. The development of the National Park was interrupted during the WWII. After the war, Taiwanese government continued the development and designated “Taroko National Park” in 1985.

The most famous geological wonder at Taroko is the stiff gorges and cliffs. When you going the highway (or even better, hiking) through the gorge, you will certainly be astonished by the gigantic marble rock formation. I will stop talking now, please enjoy the photos, and don’t forget to visit the web sites listed below.

Tentative Visit Date: 5/18, 5/19
National Park Official Site:http://www.taroko.gov.tw/English/
GPS: 24^O 9’ 40.89” E; 121^O 36’ 47.82” N

"Taiwan Ecology and Culture Study Tour" is part of the "Ecology and Culture of Asia" course at North Park University. it is open to all North Parkers regardless registering for the course not.