Monday, June 26, 2023

Day 148 Sat June 10, 2023 Kaohsiung, Taiwan

 Day 148 Sat June 10, 2023 Tour 1:15 to 5:15  Glimpse of Kaohsiung, Taiwan 4.5 hours  $109.00  

I really don't see how these pictures match up with the description I read to choose this excursion.  


This definitive tour of Kaohsiung presents attractions that reveal the very fabric of life in this thriving southern Taiwanese city. Traveling by coach from the pier, you will first travel to the massive Spring and Autumn Pavilions, a complex completed in 1951. While dedicated to Kuan Kung, the Chinese God of War, the pavilions feature a prominent statue of the Goddess of Mercy riding a dragon. It's a breathtaking sight that shows the importance of legend in Taiwanese culture. Religious expression is very prevalent in Kaohsiung, and you will also visit two of its most popular temples. The Confucius Temple is situated on serene Lotus Pond, which was so named for the many fragrant lotus flowers growing in the water. Completed in 1976, the majestic structure is Taiwan's largest Confucian temple and expresses a deep reverence for China's beloved sage. The design reflects that of a temple in the Shandong Province, the philosopher's homeland. Also included, is a visit to Chiming Tang, another Taiwanese temple constructed in the 1970s. Several gods are worshipped here, including humanized gods of influential historic figures, such as Confucius. Changing pace, you will head to the Chijin Old Street for a true glimpse of daily life in Kaohsiung. It is here that the city was first developed and although the early Dutch occupation is evidenced of the architecture, Chijin is definitely more representative of traditional Taiwanese architecture and culture. Colorful, ornate temples such as the 300-year-old Tian Ho abound, and the many small shops are always abuzz. As you stroll along the street exploring the many sights, shops and stands, you will no doubt be charmed by the friendly townspeople and the inviting ambience that is found here. After touring Chijin, your coach awaits to transfer you back to the pier. We went to Chijin first.  

Please note:  This tour includes approximately 90-minutes of moderate walking and there are numerous steps to negotiate at the temples. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have a companion to assist them, although they may not be able to enjoy all the sights at the temples. Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Casual clothing; a hat; sunglasses and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested.


I saw a lot of entrances to temples.   








                                            Beach sculptures at Chijin
                                    People from the Viking World Cruise 2017/18.  Miles, Elizabeth, Sherry and Bill.  


                                            Lots of sculptures on the beach at Chijin.

                                            Goddess of Mercy riding a dragon
                                            Buddha across the river
                                            Rowers on the river





                                            Drum table in tea room


                                            Goddess of Mercy riding the dragon.

 


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