The Quaint Village

Quaint 'Chuifen' (nine parts)...direct translation ; there is an explanation to the naming of this village up in the mountains along the north eastern coast but it is just too complicated ; even I gave up trying to fathom the tour guide's lingo. He had very thick Hokkien accent ; not for the less competent to understand. But if I am not confused by the accent, it was meant to denote the original abode of the nine families that first occupied the village but the population later grew with the advent of the gold rush in the area around it.




At the lookout point of Chuifen, we saw ridges after ridges and the country is famous for its many mountains and water (seas and rivers) features. The Chinese are highly associated with 'Feng' and 'Shui' and can never live apart from them. Everything they do and think revolve around these 2 elements ; Taiwan is steep in superstitions and the homogeneous society shares a common outlook in daily encounters and exchanges ; so very different from Malaysia.





On the way up this mountainous village, the chatty tour guide told us that the village was also once known as the weeping village as many died while working in the gold mine and cemeteries dotted the landscape.




Por Por and Kong Kong are happy to get a chance to visit this place and kept ranting that on their own they would never make it to this spot. But they can be difficult at times ; Kong Kong converts currencies all the time and Por Por's staple is porrridge only and never seems able to agree with the local foods.

Quaint Chuifen has caught the eye of the tourists with her pebble-stoned paths and the cool environment is an added advantage. The locals are fair in complexion and business-minded. Under further observation, we noticed that the locals have used the front portion for business may it be for family endeavours or rental.

It's pleasant working along the lanes and from looks and accent, I could quess that many international visitors were there for the day. The village offers all kinds of gifts and souveniers.

This enterprising vendor has her drinks served in dwarf and giant bottles...very original.

Dad is blowing into the biggest whistle and his attempt to get the mechanism working got us in stitches.

This lady sells fresh giant mushroom and grills them on small fire...did not try them.

Dad, the tourist could not deny himself the chance of getting his identity contained on a stamp...

in Chinese characters and said that it has been his dream to possess an identification of this form. So he waited a good half an hour to get his identity configured.

This man may look aged but he is deft and skilful at the art and commented that dad has a good name in Chinese. Thanks to grandma Lau.


Dad's identity contained in a stamp and is now in his proud posession at a price...NT 1200.00

While strolling with Por Por, she vividly remembered how we children were so excited each time she bought us clogs like the ones shown though not quite the same design. Really, I have constantly recalled the days when I was a little girl and how I looked forward to special days when we received such a treat. Our pocket money was in the size of 5 cents or at the max 10cents. Nowadays , inflation must be the reason why our children get pocket money of much much larger sizes.

Finally, after scrutinising through many food stalls, Por Por settled for a fish noodle stall and the meal ended in great comments. But look at the tables. I was tickled by them ; they are actual primary schoolers' study tables! I kept asking the guide the reason for the table but he could not find the answer.

This is further proof of primary schoolers' chair. Very different ; they chose to be different alright.




After a good time at Chuifen, we bade our good bye to the village. If you ever visit Taipei, do attempt to see this village. You will not be disappointed.