Kenting and Taitung

Early next morning, we left for Kenting National Park. This is located at Taiwan's southern tip and where we had the opportunity to see the Pacific Ocean. We travelled along the coast line and our guide pointed to a 'Cat Rock' Maopitou. Till today I cannot see how it looks like a cat!

We stopped at Oluanpi Light House - is the world's only armed lighthouse. There is a moat around the lighthouse and there are holes every 3.5m in the wall for rifles. Apparently in the old days it was used to shoot down Taiwanese Aborigines. We were not allowed to go up to the lighthouse because it is still in operation. When in operation, it is the brightest in South Asia, its light can reach 27 nautical miles out.

Next, we went to the Recreation Area in Kenting where we had a little exercise by walking along a jungle track. It was a very sunny day and we were glad for the shade provided by the trees. We saw an unattended glasshouse filled with all kinds of orchids. I cannot say that orchids are my favourite flowers but I was surprised at how big and pretty the orchids are. The one below is first grown in Taiwan.

After a sweaty slog up to the observation tower, we were awarded this lovely view:


After the trek, we were brought to the town in search of lunch. We had a good lunch of steamed fish, salt and pepper whitebait, fresh bamboo shoots and local veges.