My Taiwan Journey from Factory Worker (2005) to Solo Backpacker (2023)

"Trust the process, your time is coming. Just do the work and the result will handle themselves." - Tony Gaskins

Taiwan was my very first destination abroad and as an OFW Factory Worker (2005).  This first journey  in Taiwan lasted for 7 days only due to homesickness. My work had 12 hours duty a day with 1 day off only a week. I went home despite the debts my mother had made just to complete this Taiwan journey. I came from a failed IT career when I accepted this OFW stuff.

Imagine my thoughts I went home jobless, with zero savings and lots of debt because of my stupidity. 

My second destination abroad was Thailand (2010) but as a Solo Backpacker. Almost 18 years later I came back to Taiwan as Tourist Backpacker, strolling everywhere independently with financial freedom.

Imagine again if I didn't follow my instinct last 2005... 

I wouldn't be in aviation industry months after.

I wouldn't have an Engineering graduate studies.

I wouldn't visit 137 Countries and beyond.

I wouldn't discover mind blowing life perspective.

 

Life is not a race, everyone has their own separate path. Always try to train our mind to see the good in everything.

As Albert Einstein said, “The one who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The one who walks alone is likely to find himself in places no one has ever been before.”Also, "A ship is always safe at the shore - but it is not what it is built for."

When life gets harder, don't wish it to be easier, Decide to be stronger. 

Time flies indeed. Live a life you will remember.

My Taiwan Journey from Factory Worker (2005) to Solo Backpacker (2023)

Taipei City Tourist Spots DIY Day Trips

7 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan... April 10 to 18, 2023

Outside Taipei; DIY Day Trip to Heping Island and Yehliu Geopark

Taipei is the national capital of Taiwan. It is in the northern part of the island in a basin between the Yangming Mountains and the Central Mountains. It is, with 2.6 million inhabitants, the fourth largest administrative area of Taiwan, after New Taipei, Kaohsiung and Taichung. However, the Greater Taipei metropolitan area, which encompasses the central Taipei City along with the surrounding New Taipei City and Keelung, represents the largest urban cluster in Taiwan with nearly 7 million people. Taipei serves as the island's financial, cultural and governmental centre.

https://wikitravel.org/en/Taipei

Day 5: April 14, 2023 Friday

1115H Train #516 Kaohsiung to Taipei 650

1715H Taipei; Wow Hostel 3 nights $1,441; Chiang Kai Chek Square; Ximen food trip night walk 585

Day 6: April 15, 2023 Saturday

0630H wake-up; breakfast 120

0730H Train #1128 to Keelung 37

0830H Keelung; bus #101 to Heping Island; Bus #101/102 to Heping Island Stop 15; Heping Island Park 120

1030H Bus #101/102 to Keelung 15; Bus #790 to Yehliu stop 15; Yehliu Geopark 120; souvenir magnets 80

1400H Bus #1815 to Taipei 113

1530H Taipei; Yoshinoya 339; night trip 400

Day 7: April 16, 2023 Sunday

0800H MRT to Tamsui red stn 50; breakfast 60

0930H Bus 875/876/877 to Tianyuan 11; Tianyuan Temple

1030H Bus 875/876/877 to Tamsui stn 11; MRT to Taipei 101 red stn 55

Taipei 101, Sun Yat Sen Park; McDonald's 179; Walk to Chiang Kai Chek Square; snacks 64

1700H CKCMH Changing of the Guards; dinner 234

Day 8: April 17, 2023 Monday

0730H wake-up; start walk tour from Hostel; Lungshan Temple, Botanical garden; brunch 239

Food trip 465; McDonald's 185

2200H ETD Taipei; Airport Express 150

2245H ETA Airport; immigration check-in 

Taipei City Tourist Spots DIY Day Trips (Tianyuan Temple)

Kaohsiung Tourist Spots DIY Day Trip

7 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan... April 10 to 18, 2023

Mt. Jade Yushan Specials; Main Peak Trail Markers

A thriving international metropolis at the southern tip of Taiwan, Kaohsiung was the host city for the 2009 World Games. Due to the regulating effects of the marine climate, Kaohsiung is generally sunny and enjoys pleasant weather year-round. Known as "Taiwan's Maritime Capital," the city has worked hard in recent years to develop its tourism industry, including through beautification of the urban landscape. Kaohsiung is home to several popular visitor sites, including the Love River, Shoushan (Mt. Shou), Xiziwan Bay, Lotus Pond, Qijin, and the Old City of Zuoying.

Back to city life; afternoon visit to Kaohsiung's signature landmark, Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. The first time I've seen this magnificent architecture was its replica in Tobi World Square, Japan (2013). The replica is better imho. 

Day 4: April 13, 2023 Thursday

1347H Train #3207 Chiayi to Kaohsiung 158

1620H Kaohsiung; Sugamo Hostel 1 night 333; Metro to Zuoying station 14

Zouying Lotus Pond (Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, Yoandi Temple, Spring and Autumn Pavilions)

1905H metro to Kaohsiung station 14; Liuhe Night Market night walk; dinner 429

Day 5: April 14, 2023 Friday

0700H wake-up; breakfast 

Metro to Yamchengpu 17; 7-11 breakfast 60; The Pier2 Art Center

Metro to Aozidi 22; Love River; Metro to Kaohsiung 17; Yoshinoya 125

1115H Train #516 Kaohsiung to Taipei 650

Kaohsiung Tourist Spots DIY Day Trip (Zouying Lotus Pond -Dragon and Tiger Pagodas)

Mt. Jade Yushan Specials; Main Peak Trail Markers

7 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan... April 10 to 18, 2023

Mt. Jade Solo Hike last part: Summit Assault (3,952masl) and Descend

The last 600m (especially the last 300m) hiking distance to summit assault is usually early morning and crowded. I changed my plan to do it in afternoon because I have a feeling it's freaking hard, I don't want to be in hurry and I want to be alone on the summit. There are chain support which 90% of the time I depend my life on them lol, due to lots of slippery, lose rocks and high steps required aside of the AMS effect, very windy and narrow trail. 

The trail is well defined and clearly marked with distance markers every half KM showing the distance travelled and the remaining distance to Paiyun Lodge/summit. The trail leading from the trailhead at Tatajia Anbu (2600m) to Paiyun Lodge (3400m) is 8.5km long. This section of the trail is relatively gentle. The trail from Paiyun Lodge to the summit (3,952m) is 2.4km long. The section of the trail is relatively steep especially the last 500m where some scrambling is required.

Mt. Jade trail markers shows the distance, elevation and sometimes mobile signal availability.

Day 2: April 11, 2023 Tuesday 

0745H Hostel check-out; walk to bus station

0806H Bus #7322 Chiayi to Alishan 211

1015H Alishan; snacks 130; Alishan Forest Park sakura walk 150

1300H Bus #6739 Alishan to Tataka (Yushan) 60

1330H Shangdongpu (2,580masl); Paiyun Mountaineering Center 480

Overnight in Dongpu Lodge 400; dinner 70

Day 3: April 12, 2023 Wednesday

0545H Dongpu Lodge (2,563masl) 0.5km

0600H Paiyun Center (2,611masl) free wifi; Trail to Tataka Saddle (3km)

0645H Tataka Saddle (2,610masl)

0740H Monroe Pavillion (2,792masl)

0930H White Forest Viewing Deck (3,042masl)

1150H Paiyun Lodge (3,402masl) 8.5km

1230H Trail to Yushan Main Peak

1430H Main Peak crossroad 

1515H Mt. Jade Main Peak (3,952masl) 2.4km

1545H Back to Paiyun Lodge 

1715H Paiyun Lodge; dinner / sleeping bag 650

Day 4: April 13, 2023 Thursday

0300H wake-up; breakfast

0345H Paiyun Lodge (3,402masl)

0730H Tataka Saddle (2,610masl)

0800H Paiyun Center (2,611masl) free wifi 

1030H Bus #6739 Shangdongpu to Alishan 62

1100H Alishan; snacks 163

1140H Bus #7322 Alishan to Chiayi 211

1340H Chiayi Railway Station

Mt. Jade Yushan Specials; Main Peak Trail Markers (crosstrail to Summit Assault)

Mt. Jade Solo Hike last part: Summit Assault (3,952masl) and Descend

7 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan... April 10 to 18, 2023

Mt. Jade Solo Hike 1st part: From Dongpu Lodge to Paiyun Lodge

The trail from Paiyun Lodge to the peak is 2.4km long. It only starts becoming technical around the last half kilometer or so, with the last 200 meters being the steepest and most difficult section...though by high mountain standards, still relatively easy. It takes 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the peak from the lodge.

https://wikitravel.org/en/Yushan

Despite the signs of AMS (headache, dizziness, vomiting) and gruesome summit assault, I reached the Taiwan's highest mountain peak (3,952masl) within the day on 11.5 hours, 17km hiking distance and almost 1.4km elevation gain. The last 600m (especially the last 300m) hiking distance to summit assault is usually early morning and crowded. I changed my plan to do it in afternoon because I have a feeling it's freaking hard, I don't want to be in hurry and I want to be alone on the summit. There are chain support which 90% of the time I depend my life on them lol, due to lots of slippery, lose rocks and high steps required aside of the AMS effect, very windy and narrow trail. 

Mt. Jade Main Peak (3,952masl) Summit Assault Success!

Self-guided solo hike to Taiwan's highest mountain with back trail distance of 28km and elevation gain of almost 1.4km (despite the getting worst hiking phase, kinaya pa din).

REMINDER: Please take note that my trekking hours is of below average, I'm always lagging for around an hour to the next destination. I already considered myself as retired hiker after Mt. Apo day-hike (Philippines' highest mountain), but due to some personal and travel related urge, change my mind a little bit.

Day 3: April 12, 2023 Wednesday

1150H Paiyun Lodge (3,402masl) 8.5km

1230H Trail to Yushan Main Peak

1430H Main Peak crossroad 

1515H Mt. Jade Main Peak (3,952masl) 2.4km

1545H Back to Paiyun Lodge 

1715H Paiyun Lodge; dinner / sleeping bag 650

Day 4: April 13, 2023 Thursday

0300H wake-up; breakfast

0345H Paiyun Lodge (3,402masl)

0730H Tataka Saddle (2,610masl)

0800H Paiyun Center (2,611masl) free wifi 

1030H Bus #6739 Shangdongpu to Alishan 62

1100H Alishan; snacks 163

1140H Bus #7322 Alishan to Chiayi 211

1340H Chiayi Railway Station

Mt. Jade Solo Hike last part: Summit Assault (3,952masl) and Descend

Mt. Jade Solo Hike 1st part: From Dongpu Lodge to Paiyun Lodge

7 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan... April 10 to 18, 2023

Mt. Jade Main Peak Preparation, Hiking Permit, Transport and Lodging

The hiking trail leading from the trailhead at Tatajia Anbu to Paiyun Lodge is 8.5km long at an elevation of 3,402 metres. As high mountain hikes go, it is relatively easy, with few steep or technical sections. In some sections the trail goes downhill, and there are plenty of level grade sections. The trail is clearly marked, with a distance post every half km showing distance traveled and distance remaining. It takes 4 to 8 hours to reach the lodge from the trailhead, depending on fitness level.

https://wikitravel.org/en/Yushan

Sudden change in hike plan due to one time departure of daily bus and confidence that I can make it within the day. Started to hike from Lodging (2,563masl) up to Mt. Jade Summit (3,952masl). There is only one daily bus departure going back to Alishan and Sun Moon Lake. I should be in Shangdongpu bus station before 1030H as I'm going back to Alishan for Kaoshiung at night (taxi fare costs around 2,500 to 3,000 NTD going to Alishan for 30 min travel time, bus fare costs only 60 NTD). 

REMINDER: Please take note that my trekking hours is of below average, I'm always lagging for around an hour to the next destination. I already considered myself as retired hiker after Mt. Apo day-hike (Philippines' highest mountain), but due to some personal and travel related urge, change my mind a little bit.

Day 2: April 11, 2023 Tuesday 

0745H Hostel check-out; walk to bus station

0806H Bus #7322 Chiayi to Alishan 211

1015H Alishan; snacks 130; Alishan Forest Park sakura walk 150

1300H Bus #6739 Alishan to Tataka (Yushan) 60

1330H Shangdongpu (2,580masl); Paiyun Mountaineering Center 480

Overnight in Dongpu Lodge 400; dinner 70

Day 3: April 12, 2023 Wednesday

0545H Dongpu Lodge (2,563masl) 0.5km

0600H Paiyun Center (2,611masl) free wifi; Trail to Tataka Saddle (3km)

0645H Tataka Saddle (2,610masl)

0740H Monroe Pavillion (2,792masl)

0930H White Forest Viewing Deck (3,042masl)

1150H Paiyun Lodge (3,402masl) 8.5km; rest

Mt. Jade Solo Hike 1st Part: From Dongpu Lodge to Paiyun Lodge

Mt. Jade Main Peak Preparation, Hiking Permit, Transport and Lodging

7 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan... April 10 to 18, 2023

Short Visit to Chiayi and Alishan Tourist Spots (Cherry Blossom)

Yushan, also known as Jade Mountain (3,952masl), is the highest mountain in Taiwan. It has also been claimed to be the tallest mountain in East Asia, but this depends on how one defines "East Asia" (Mt. Everest North Face is located in Tibet, China). Asian Trilogy Peak is an adventure to hike the best or the highest summits of Asia. It is composed of Mt. Kinabalu (4,095masl), the highest peak of Malaysia; Mt. Fuji (3,776masl), the highest peak of Japan and Mt. Jade (3,952masl), the highest peak in Taiwan.

What months are the best to hike Mt. Jade (Yushan):

The recommended period is during the dry season from October to December, late spring from May to early June when the mountain is blooming with beautiful wild flowers. December to March requires snow climbing equipment and experience (if not, the permit is invalid).

Important Notes on Hiking Yushan Trails;

1. From Yushan National Park, click this link.

2. Hiking Permits Application Dates: 4 months to 35 days before the entry date.

3. Foreign Advanced Application Eligible Route: Yushan Main Peak 2-day Route only (foreigners outside Taiwan)

Basic Itinerary of Yushan Mt. Jade Main Peak (3,952masl) 2-day Route

Day 0: Arrrived in Taipei at least before 0500H, then go to Dongpu Lodge.

Day 1: Ascend from Dongpu Lodge (2,560masl) to Paiyun Lodge (3,400masl) for 5 hrs with 11km distance.

Day 2: Ascend from Paiyun Lodge (3,400masl) to Mt. Jade Main Peak (3,952masl) then descend back.

Hiking Permit and Transport to Yushan Mt. Jade (my "baon" trail food)

Chiayi and Alishan Tourist Spots (Cherry Blossom) Short Visit

7 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan... April 10 to 18, 2023

Taiwan Budget DIY Trip Preparation and Itinerary

I visited Chiayi and Alishan because these places are transit places going to jump-off of the Taiwan's highest mountain Mt. Jade Yushan. Bus schedule to Mt. Jade has very limited schedule, thus, planning where to stay at night on budget is crucial. There are two transit options going to Mt. Jade, either from Sun Moon Lake or from Alishan. I chose to stay in Chiayi at night because of the cheapest hostels available compared to Sun Moon Lake. 

Day 1: April 10, 2023 Monday

0900H ETA Taipei TPE UTC +0800H; Easy Card 100; Payment load (1,500); Airport Express 150

1030H Taipei Main Station; snacks 160

1106H Train #2183 Taipei to Chiayi (5.25hrs) 385

1623H Chiayi; Light Hostel 1 night 454; Song of the Forest, Chiayi Plaza, Wenhua night market, Street food Dinner 100

Day 2: April 11, 2023 Tuesday 

0745H Hostel check-out; walk to bus station

0806H Bus #7322 Chiayi to Alishan 211

1015H Alishan; snacks 130; Alishan Forest Park sakura walk 150

1300H Bus #6739 Alishan to Tataka (Yushan) 60

1330H Shangdongpu (2,580masl); Paiyun Mountaineering Center 480

Overnight in Dongpu Lodge 400; dinner 70

Short Visit to Chiayi and Alishan Tourist Spots (Alishan Forest Park sakura walk)

8 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan

Yushan Mt. Jade - Kaohsiung - Taipei ... April 10 to 18, 2023

Taiwan is an outside territory of Mainland China, not part of my personal journey beyond #lakbay100 Countries. Actually, Taiwan was my first destination abroad and my first work as an Overseas Filipino Worker, I didn't last that long due to homesickness, long working hours (12 hrs/day, 6 days/wk) and my work was not the one I agreed during application. My journey to Taiwan from a Factory Worker (2005) to a Solo Backpacker (2023). 

Thank you very much Taiwan! Mt. Jade Main Peak and Sakura sightseeing successful!

Taiwan is a country island located off the coast of southwest of Okinawa, Japan and north of the Philippines, and is known formally as the Republic of China (ROC) since 1945. Besides its crowded cities, Taiwan is also known for steep mountains and lush forests. While the political status of Taiwan is a somewhat controversial and sensitive issue, from a traveller's point of view, Taiwan is under the de facto control of a different government from mainland China, and in practice operates as a separate state. This is not a political endorsement of the claims of any side of the dispute.

https://wikitravel.org/en/Taiwan

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT TAIWAN

timezone - UTC +0800H   capital - Taipei    language - Mandarin    currency - Dollar (TWD)

visa - Philippine passport holders are eligible for visa-exempted effective until July 31, 2023 with a duration of stay of up to 14 days

requirements: (1) passport with at least 6 months remaining validity, (2) Confirmed seat reservation for departure flight, (3) A proof of accommodation (hotel) booking and sufficient travel funds. (Not determined by immigration officers at ports of entry in the ROC to be otherwise ineligible.) (4) Before arriving in Taiwan, please complete an online immigration arrival card on the website of the National Immigration Agency.

1. Taiwan is the size of Belgium but has 23 million residents.

2. Taiwan’s official title is the Republic of China (RoC).

3. Only 2.3% of the Taiwanese population is native.

4. Taiwan made gay marriage legal in 2019.

5. Taiwan’s Taipei 101 building was the tallest building in the world

Taiwanese (Mandarin) Basic Phrases:

Yes = shi 是 / No = bu shi 不是       Excuse me = duei bu chi 對不起        Good morning = zai an 早安

Thank you = xie xie 謝謝        Please = ching 請        Good afternoon = wu an 午安

Hello = ni hao 你好        Goodbye = zai jian 再見        Good night = wan an 晚安

8 Days Budget DIY Solo Trip in Spring Season Taiwan

Beijing City tour last part; Visiting Great Wall of China in Badaling

6 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 21 to February 26, 2015

Beijing City tour 1st part; Morning to Ming Dynasty Tombs

Great Wall of China in Mutianyu, a Great Self-Guided Solo Trip (Jan. 2013)

How to go Great Wall of China in Badaling;
Parking lot north of Deshengmen Arrow Tower - Jishuitan Stn (line 2) Exit A then bus #877 12CNY fare 1-way. Other way is via Xizhinmen Stn (line 2) Exit A. Beijing North Stn Depart (S209 1057H) Leave (S222 1621H) 6CNY fare 1-way. Whole hiking takes 2-3 hours (3.7km). Walk from Tower No.1 (main entrance )  up to the highest Tower No.8, then walk down to Tower 12 ( near Bear Garden). Pass by Bear Garden, then walk about 10mins back to the Tower 1.

I decided to book (walked-in in Qianmen near Qianmen Hostel) my Beijing whole day city tour because I am already exhausted as this was my 15th day journey across Northeast Asia which started in Japan followed by Mongolia. 

BEIJING CITY WHOLE DAY TOUR (180CNY/$30) PACKAGE INCLUDES
- pick-up (0630H) and drop-off (1700H) transportation from hotel
- entrance fees on both Great Wall of China in Badaling and Ming Dynasty Tombs 
- english-speaking guide and chinese lunch 

ITINERARY FOR BEIJING CITY WHOLE DAY TOUR
​0630H ETD Qianmen meeting place
0900H Ming Dynasty Tombs
1000H Jade Factory Tour & lunch
1200H Great Wall of China Badaling via sliding car (100CNY)
1400H ETD Great Wall
1500H Silk Factory Tour
1700H ETA Tianmen Square

Great Wall of China Badaling section is the best preserved and the most popular one amongst all the sections. It is more than 1,000 meters (3281 ft) above sea level, and commands a strategic position for transportation and defense in ancient times. Badaling, literally meaning "reach eight directions", got its name because the maze of its ridges stretches in all directions. It is easily accessible and has easy walking conditions.
http://www.chinahighlights.com/greatwall/section/badaling-greatwall.htm

Beijing City tour last part; Visiting Great Wall of China in Badaling

Beijing City tour 1st part; Morning to Ming Dynasty Tombs

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

China Train Ride Experience during Lunar New Year Week 

I decided to book (walked-in in Qianmen near Qianmen Hostel) my Beijing whole day city tour because I am already exhausted as this was my 15th day journey across Northeast Asia which started in Japan followed by Mongolia. 

BEIJING CITY WHOLE DAY TOUR (180CNY/$30) PACKAGE INCLUDES
- pick-up (0630H) and drop-off (1700H) transportation from hotel
- entrance fees on both Great Wall of China in Badaling and Ming Dynasty Tombs 
- english-speaking guide and chinese lunch 

ITINERARY FOR BEIJING CITY WHOLE DAY TOUR
​0630H ETD Qianmen meeting place
0900H Ming Dynasty Tombs
1000H Jade Factory Tour & lunch
1200H Great Wall of China Badaling via sliding car (100CNY)
1400H ETD Great Wall
1500H Silk Factory Tour
1700H ETA Tianmen Square

Ming Dynasty Tombs are a collection of mausoleums built by the Chinese Ming dynasty emperors. However, the majority of the Ming tombs are located in a cluster near Beijing and collectively known as the Thirteen Tombs of the Ming Dynasty. The site, on the southern slope of Tianshou Mountain (originally Huangtu Mountain), was chosen based on the principles of feng shui by the third Ming dynasty emperor. After the construction of the Imperial Palace (Forbidden City) in 1420, the Yongle Emperor selected his burial site and created his own mausoleum. The subsequent emperors placed their tombs in the same valley.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ming_tombs

Beijing City tour 1st part; Morning to Ming Dynasty Tombs

China Train Ride Experience during Lunar New Year Week

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

Zhangjiajie Tour last part; Tianmen Mountain's other Scenic Area

I booked and paid all my train rides during this 7-days trip via walked-in only because online booking has additional commission plus requirement of hotel address where it has be delivered. Moreover, my ultimate reason was all of my preferred schedule was fully booked/not available on just a month preparation before the flight date. Even so, this was also what I did on my 1st visit last January 2013, booking directly in ticket office.

DESTINATION: Beijing to Harbin Train #2265 285CNY($46) 18hr30min overnight ride (Feb20, hard sleeper)
REMARKS: booked during Beijing Airport Terminal 3 transit. No wifi, no electric outlet, with central toilet, personal pillow and comforter.

DESTINATION: Changsha to Zhangjiajie 54.5CNY($9) Train #536 5hr30min morning ride (Feb23, ordinary seat)
REMARKS: booked during the day and time of departure. No wifi, no electric outlet, with central toilet, crowdy, lots of baggage in aisle. 

DESTINATION: Zhangjiajie to Beijing Train #536 229CNY($37) 26hr overnight ride (Feb24, standing no seat)

REMARKS: booked in Beijing Railway Station before Harbin departure. No wifi, no electric outlet, with central toilet, crowdy, lots of baggage in aisle.

China Train Ride Experience during Lunar New Year Week (Beijing to Harbin)

Zhangjiajie Tour last part; Tianmen Mountain's other Scenic Area

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

Zhangjiajie Tour 5th part; Tianmen Mountain Glass Sky Walk

Tianmen Mountain, has been called “one of the most beautiful mountains in the world”. The stunning views, vertical cliffs, the fascinating cliff-hanging walkway, the glass sky walk, and the longest cable car ride, make it unquestionably one of the best national parks to visit in China.

How to go to Tianmen Mountain;
Tianmen Mountain Cable Car is just above the Zhangjiajie train station. From Zhangjiajie train station, follow the cable above which is around less than 1km away from Exit. Entrance fee is 228CNY ($37) (Off-peak season rate). This admission fee includes entrance ticket, Cable car round trip, tourist bus and insurance. Photography and video taking with monopod/tripod is permitted. 

Tianmen Mountain elevation is 4,980 feet (the highest in Zhangjiajie); people be amazed that about 40 peaks inside the mountain area are over 3,200 feet. The mountain is famous for its unique natural miracle - the Tianmen Cave; it was authorized as a national forest park in July, 1992. The door-alike cave was created after the cliff collapsing in ancient time. 

http://www.zhangjiajietourism.us/what-scenic.html

Zhangjiajie Tour last part; Tianmen Mountain's other Scenic Area

Zhangjiajie Tour 5th part; Foggy Tianmen Mountain Glass Sky Walk

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 26, 2015

Zhangjiajie Tour 4th part; Cable Car to Tianmen Mountain

How to go to Tianmen Mountain Glass Sky Walk;
Tianmen Mountain Car is just above the Zhangjiajie train station. From Zhangjiajie train station, follow the cable above which is around less than 1km away from Exit. Entrance fee is 228CNY ($37) (Off-peak season rate). This admission fee includes entrance ticket, Cable car round trip, tourist bus and insurance. Separate admission of 5CNY for glass skywalk. Photography and video taking is permitted, tripod not allowed. 

Tianmen Mountain Glass Walkway is part of the cliff-hanging walkway, and is the highest section. The “sky walk” is 60 meters long, with a width of 1.6 meters. It gives a thrilling feeling like walking in the sky. It is definitely not suitable for the fainted heart. It is interesting to see people (scared of the height) leaning against the cliff as they cross it. On foggy days, it is easier to walk across as you can see nothing below, however the thrilling feature of the walkway is lost. If it rains the day before, there is usually heavy fog at the mountain top.

http://www.chinahighlights.com/zhangjiajie/attraction/tianmen-mountain.htm

Zhangjiajie Tour 5th part; Tianmen Mountain Glass Sky Walk

Zhangjiajie Tour 4th part; Cable Car to Tianmen Mountain

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

Zhangjiajie Tour 3rd part; above the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Tianmen Mountain Cableway is the longest mountain cableway in the world. Its cableway length of 24,459 feet (more than 4.5 miles) with travel time of around 25mins, starting from the city center of Zhangjiajie to the 'Hanging Garden' on the peak. Important; It is highly recommended to buy ticket early in the morning (0700H) because massive volume of tourist group is about to unfold everyday, taking note that winter is supposedly an off-peak season, much more if its summer or spring. I arrived on ticket queuing around 0800H and begun my cable ride around 1330H, that was 5hr30mins.

How to go to Tianmen Mountain Cable Car;
Tianmen Mountain Car is just above the Zhangjiajie train station. From Zhangjiajie train station, follow the cable above which is around less than 1km away from Exit. Entrance fee is 228CNY ($37) (Off-peak season rate). This admission fee includes entrance ticket, Cable car round trip, tourist bus and insurance. Photography and video taking with monopod/tripod is permitted. 

Tianmen Mountain Cablecar was constructed by the French company Poma from nearby Zhangjiajie railway station to the top of the mountain. Tianmen Mountain Cableway is claimed in tourist publications as the "longest passenger cableway of high mountains in the world", with 98 cars and a total length of 7,455 metres (24,459 ft) and ascent of 1,279 metres (4,196 ft).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tianmen_Mountain

Zhangjiajie Tour 4th part; Cable Car to Tianmen Mountain (99 Bends)

Zhangjiajie Tour 3rd part; above the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

Zhangjiajie Tour 2nd part; walking to Golden Whip Stream

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area becomes more popular as the Southern Heavenly Pillar inspired the floating mountains (called Avatar Hallelujah Mountain) in the Hollywood blockbuster movie "Avatar" which features some of the top section.

How to go to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area;
This place is the third park to visit inside the Zhangjiajie National Park after Golden Whip Stream and the highlight scenic area. From Zhangjiajie Bus Terminal, ride an ordinary bus bound to "Znhajiajie". the bus has no number posted, so asking locals for direction and the proper bus before going aboard is important. Travel time is around 45mins for a fare of 10CNY ($1.6). Zhangjiajie National Park entrance fee is 139CNY ($23) (Off-peak season rate) and valid for 4-days consecutive (non-transferable). Trek the 4km Golden Whip Stream trail until you reach the upward stairways with map meters away from the base. No extra admission fee and no cable car available. Photography and video taking with monopod/tripod is permitted. 

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area is a natural platform that faces giant rocks rising from deep valleys and surrounded by higher mountains. Unique in their shapes and covered with pine trees, these rocks resemble a vivid Chinese painting. Main scenic spots include: Back Garden, breath taking Mihun Stage and the First Bridge under the Sun. The foremost attractions in this area include: Back Garden, breathtaking Mihun Stage, the First Bridge under the Sun, etc. Yuanjiajie lies between Huangshi Village (yellow stone stronghold) and Tianzi Mountain (Emperor Mountain). 

http://www.zhangjiajietourism.us/what-scenic.html

Zhangjiajie Tour 3rd part; above the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area

Zhangjiajie Tour 2nd part; walking to Golden Whip Stream

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

Zhangjiajie Tour 1st part; at the Yellow Stone Mountain

The main attraction in Zhangjiajie is the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage that includes the Zhangjiajie Forest Park.

How to go to Golden Whip Stream;
This place is the second park to visit inside the Zhangjiajie National Park after Yellow Stone Mountain. From Zhangjiajie Bus Terminal, ride an ordinary bus bound to "Znhajiajie". the bus has no number posted, so asking locals for direction and the proper bus before going aboard is important. Travel time is around 45mins for a fare of 10CNY ($1.6). Zhangjiajie National Park entrance fee is 139CNY ($23) (Off-peak season rate) and valid for 4-days consecutive (non-transferable). This 4km whip stream path at the base of the mountains is the route going to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. No extra admission fee. Photography and video taking with monopod/tripod is permitted. 

Golden Whip Brook is located inside the Wulingyuan Scenic Area of Zhangjiajie and several places of interest can be found nearby. The brook meanders its way through 3.5 miles of mountains and valleys, from north to south. Nearby places of interest include Golden Whip Rock, Purple Grass Pond, Jumping Fish Pond and Zhangliang Tomb, the park's premier man-made attraction.

http://www.zhangjiajietourism.us/what-scenic.html

Zhangjiajie Tour 2nd part; walking to Golden Whip Stream

Zhangjiajie Tour 1st part; at the Yellow Stone Mountain

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

Harbin Tour last part; Inside the Siberia Tiger Park

The main attraction in Zhangjiajie is the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage that includes the Zhangjiajie Forest Park.

How to go to Yellow Stone Mountain (Huangshizhai);
This place is the first park to visit inside the Zhangjiajie National Park. From Zhangjiajie Bus Terminal, ride an ordinary bus bound to "Znhajiajie". the bus has no number posted, so asking locals for direction and the proper bus before going aboard is important. Travel time is around 45mins for a fare of 10CNY ($1.6). Zhangjiajie National Park entrance fee is 139CNY ($23) (Off-peak season rate) and valid for 4-days consecutive (non-transferable). Cable car ride is paid separately at 118CNY ($20) roundtrip. Photography and video taking with monopod/tripod is permitted. 

The Huangshizhai Village, also called Yellow Lion Village or Yellow Stone Village, refers to a huge mountain land in the middle part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. With an elevation of 1,080 masl, Huangshi Village is a high, magnificent and vast sightseeing platform, a high-south, low-north terrace composed of many cliffs. This place is a The top consists of more than 20 hectares, with over 10 scene viewing platforms from where one can enjoy majestic sandstone peak forests. People even say that not visiting Huangshizhai is equivalent to not visiting Zhangjiajie. Major Attractions are Treasure Box with Sealedbook, Devine Needle, Great Southern Pillar, Left Piers.

http://www.zhangjiajietourism.us/what-scenic.html

Zhangjiajie Tour 1st part; at the Yellow Stone Mountain

Harbin Tour last part; Inside the Siberia Tiger Park

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

Harbin Tour 3rd part; Ice and Snow World at Night

The Siberian tiger is considered endangered and the largest felid (cat) in the world.

How to go to Siberia Tiger Park;
The only way to visit this place is to ride a taxi. From Zhaolin Street, travel time is around 25mins for meter fee of 50CNY. The road is the way going to Ice and Snow World which is around 10km from here. Entrance fee is 100CNY ($17). Photography and video taking with monopod is permitted but tripod is not allowed.

Siberia Tiger Park is located on the north bank of the Songhua River to the northwest of Harbin, occupying an area of 1,440,000 square meters (355.8 acres). It is the largest natural park for wild Siberian tigers in the world at present. The park enjoys a favorable foundation for eco tourism and splendid scenery and it is an ideal place for holiday and leisure. There are over 500 purebred Siberian tigers here, with 100 visible to visitors. In addition, visitors can also see white tigers, lions, lynx, leopards, and black pumas as well as Bengali tigers.
http://www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/heilongjiang/harbin/siberian-tiger-park.htm

Harbin Tour last part; Inside the Siberia Tiger Park

Harbin Tour 3rd part; Ice and Snow World at Night

7 Days Solo Trip Revisiting Winter Mainland China

February 20 to 26, 2015

Harbin Tour 2nd part; 2015 Sun Island Int'l Snow Sculpture Art Expo

Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival is the largest ice and snow festival in the world. The two main exhibition areas are Sun Island's International Snow Sculpture Art Expo and Ice and Snow World.

How to go to Ice and Snow World;

From Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo, walk towards the North exit (not the Sun Castle with Cable Car area) 1km away until you find the main road (with giant Ice Sculptures at the corner) with overpass. This park is best to visit at night. Entrance fee is 330CNY ($55). Photography and video taking with monopod/tripod is permitted.

Harbin Ice and Snow World is by far the largest ice and snow art exhibition in the world. It is commonly referred to as possessing four of the key 'mosts': the most art attractions, the most beautiful night views, the most recreational activities and the most forms of entertainment. Furthermore, the festival is constantly evolving and each year brings with it a new theme, providing visitors with a totally unique experience from one year to the next. One of the highlights for any visitor to the festival is to visit the site at night when multicolored lights set underground illuminate the sculptures, revealing a whole new colorful dimension to the exhibits. The contrasts of the bright and dazzling lights against the dark night sky make the works look all the more spectacular.

http://www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/heilongjiang/harbin/ice-and-snow-world.htm

Harbin Tour 3rd part; 2015 Ice and Snow World at Night