The Section of Student Housing Guidance under the Office of Student Affairs at Tamkang University organized a “Diverse Residential College Program” on April 25. Staff member Hsueh-Ming Lu, together with colleagues from the Section, led nearly 40 residential students from Sung-tao Hall and Tamkang International Hall on an experiential journey combining geological exploration at Yehliu Geopark with cultural discovery in Jinshan. Through cross-cultural peer interaction, the activity aimed to strengthen students’ appreciation of Taiwan’s natural landscapes and historical heritage.
The group’s first stop was Yehliu Geopark, where participants listened to guided explanations of the area’s remarkable coastal erosion formations and closely observed internationally famous landmarks such as the “Queen’s Head,” “Candle Rock,” and various sea-eroded potholes. The extraordinary natural scenery inspired constant amazement and countless camera clicks among the students. Jonathan Nathanel Phong, a first-year Indonesian student in the English-taught Computer Science program, was fascinated by the unique fossil traces beneath his feet. Third-year Accounting student Wen-Ni Chen marveled at the beauty of nature, commenting, “The power of nature is truly incredible. Through weathering, erosion, and tectonic uplift, Yehliu has formed all kinds of extraordinary rock formations that never become boring to look at.” First-year Japanese major Shu-Hsien Kung reflected on the importance of balancing natural landscape preservation with public accessibility, describing it as a meaningful educational experience.
At midday, the group continued to Jinshan Old Street for a cultural exploration tour. Hsueh-Ming Lu introduced the history of the old street, particularly its hot spring culture and traditional inn architecture influenced by the Japanese colonial period, while encouraging students to experience the local footbath facilities. In addition to the cultural experience, local cuisine became another highlight of the trip. Students enthusiastically sampled famous Jinshan specialties such as duck dishes, sweet potatoes, and taro balls, enjoying an authentic taste of Taiwan.
Fei-Chung Yin, a first-year student in Global Politics and Economics from South Africa, expressed gratitude to classmates who assisted him with his wheelchair throughout the trip. He shared, “Being able to see the Queen’s Head together with my classmates, and participating in the activities with the support of friends, made the journey much more enjoyable and heartwarming.” His classmate Kai-Wei Chen said that although she had previously visited Yehliu with her family, traveling together with international students and classmates offered a completely different perspective on local culture. Chen and Kung also suggested future destinations such as Jiaoxi in Yilan and Yangmingshan, expressing hopes of continuing to discover the beauty of Taiwan through future “Diverse Residential College Program” activities.
