Natural Jianshi Hot Spring (part 2)

There are two small, shallow pools under cover and a deck of sorts where I have seen people taking a nap.

Being Taiwan people normally enjoy the water wearing a swimsuit or underwear. However, when it is only the guys, it is not unusual to enjoy the soaking au naturel.

The environment is greatly unspoilt because of the difficulty getting there which makes it so much more attractive to nature lovers. Nothing like enjoying a nap on a rock right in the middle of the Taiwanese Jungle.

Jianshi Hot Spring (Part 1)

If you have access to one of these, this popular family spot is easily in reach between Taoyuan and Hsinchu, in Jianshi.

Although the road is VERY rocky with fragments piling up in uneven heaps after rains, it doesn't stop 4x4 owners to practice their skills going down. I don't own an SUV but that just means I had to park my scooter higher up the mountain and walk down - something even SUV owners do as the road pays testimony to the difficulty of maneuvering even a off-road vehicle down.

At the bottom of the road lies a hot spring next to the river. AND it's free. Well, not really hot, but warm enough to count as a hot spring. After bathing in the icy river first the heat of the hot spring is very welcome. So, on week-ends groups camp here, barbecue and enjoy the environment.

Angelic in 228 Park

As I was waiting for Michelle in 228 Park, I noticed unusual activity in one area. Passersby were staring and ogling.


Some young men were applying body make-up to a friend, and I was under the impression that a photo shoot was being prepared for.


It turned out that preparation was being made to participate in Taipei Pride 2009.


The costume was hand-made by the wearer, but he called in the help of his friends with the fitting.


The end result is stunning and a red angelic creature is born.

The wings are heavy and difficult to keep in place, upon the shoulders. Likewise, the tail seems to be awkward to pull behind.

However, he walked the whole two and half hours, posed for many pictures, ....

... and brought glittering attention to the plight of gays, not only in Taiwan but across Asia. Hopefully Mr. Ma took notice of the inequalities in Taiwanese law, which hurt the LGBT minority of Taiwan.