The International and Mainland Student Guidance Section of the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs organized the "Low-Carbon Sustainable Cultural Tour in Yilan" from November 9 to 10. Led by the Dean of International Affairs, Professor Chien-Mu Yeh, 100 faculty and students participated in the event, exploring various attractions in Yilan on foot. Through a diverse and enriching itinerary, the tour aimed to strengthen friendships among international students, provide a deeper understanding of Taiwanese culture, and contribute to sustainability and low-carbon efforts.
On the first day, participants visited the Cong Zai Liao Farm Experience Center, where they used Yilan's specialty, Sanxing scallions, to handcraft unique scallion pancakes. Next, they explored Meihua Lake, surrounded by mountains, cycling while enjoying the picturesque scenery. The third stop was the historic Luodong Forestry Culture Park, where they learned about Taiwan's traditional forestry through exhibitions and facilities. In the evening, they headed to Jiaoxi Night Market to experience Taiwan's unique night market culture.
On the second day, the first stop was the Japanese-style Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park, where an SDGs photo activity was held. The final destination was Houdongkeng Waterfall, where participants marveled at the breathtaking natural beauty. They also participated in the "Clean Waterfall Challenge," with faculty and students working together to pick up trash around the waterfall area, joining efforts to protect the natural environment.
Gracelyn Salim Wong, a sophomore in Business Administration from Indonesia, shared that this trip was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From picking fresh scallions to making scallion pancakes by hand, the experience was very enjoyable. Soaking in the hot springs with friends in the evening brought a sense of physical and mental relaxation. Hiking to the waterfall was one of the greatest challenges of the journey—the path was steeper and longer than expected, but reaching the waterfall made every tiring step worthwhile. The stunning scenery along the way left a lasting impression.
