Page 34 - Koi Net - On-Line Koi Magazine - Issue 83

only exception was one shop selling interesting wood
and stone carvings. The number of shops and stalls
selling things to eat and drink appears to be legendary.
Free samples are the order of the day as well, giving
everyone a chance to “try before you buy”. Very
popular.

Right:
The traditional Hakka
restaurant had some
Teddy Li exploring the
fascinating dishes on offer. An overall view of the Hsinchu area gives very mixed
street lined with so many impressions. The old and the new, the dilapidated and
Below: food shops, there was one
The magnificently decorated shop selling fascinating well-built, the quaint and the plain ugly. A lot of the
temple could be seen at the wood and stone carvings. buildings looked sadly in need of some TLC, and
end of a long street. many of the tall concrete blocks sported amazingly
ugly tiles over the walls. It was certainly colourful,
but very much reminded me of Singapore in the 60s
and areas of Bangkok today. We had a lovely day
out, though and owe many thanks to our organisers.
The whole weekend was very enjoyable, with
some spectacular Koi at the show and wonderful
WE ENJOYED entertainment. We have now reached the sad part of
any of our Koi trips, the last evening, packing, and
IT ALL! AND saying goodbye to everyone!
I AM GLAD THE What do I remember most about this epic experience?
WHOLE TRIP I think meeting so many special people, old and new
friends, seeing many new sights and incredible Koi in
WENT SO WELL so many different settings. We enjoyed it all! I am just
glad the whole trip went so well, visiting five areas
(Kyoto, Lake Biwa, Niigata, Tokyo and Taiwan) in two
different countries was quite complex to organise and
something we have never tried before. My only regret
is the wretched weather! A few degrees warmer
everywhere would have made such a difference. I will
remember the wind and the cold for a very long time.
Until next time, at least!
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