My report on my adopted hometown continues. The title is pure clickbait, of course.
What you see here is a former motel. It actually seems to have been quite nice in its day. What purpose do Taiwanese motels serve? Traditionally, they provided a retreat for newly married couples who were still living with their parents or in-laws. Every now and then, they wanted a little privacy to consummate their marriage without the risk of constant supervision from an overbearing mother-in-law.
Motels are also notorious as venues for extramarital adventures. Oh, and of course they can serve as accommodation during a vacation. But then again … a vacation in Yangmei?
The owner let me in and simply told me to be careful. It appears the place was once rather elegant and tastefully furnished. He is now converting it into housing for migrant workers.
Yangmei has cemeteries—car cemeteries as well. Here’s a small glimpse.
The upkeep of the graves leaves much to be desired.
The Amusement Park
I have been unable to find any further information about this amusement park. Local residents simply say it has been closed for a very long time. Judging by the entrance area, it must have been quite large. Ok, Urbex Taiwan gave me an answer: it is 馬奇園歡樂世界. Some earlier pictures: https://home.gamer.com.tw/artwork.php?sn=2512175.
The former entrance, still heavily secured today. The entire area was later redeveloped, with new recreational trails laid out, dividing the former recreation park.
The upper section can now be accessed from the rear via the surrounding fields without crossing any barriers, although it is a little difficult to find. The remaining parking area gives an idea of just how extensive the site once was.
Very little has survived, especially compared with older photographs. The former main roads have been reclaimed by vegetation.
A swimming pool:
The characteristic fountains:
Only a single piece of playground equipment remains. Behind it, several more buildings have collapsed. Even so, it is still possible to make out the former layout of the paths and the overall design of the grounds.
The lower section, with its pavilions, remains accessible to the public.
Its layout reveals a great deal about past travel habits and the expectations of the Taiwanese people. It was clearly intended to be a beautiful park offering a lovely view of the lake.
The paths were well-laid out, and pavilions were very popular.
Apart from a few remnants of pathways, nothing else remains.
An old farmstead
In the hilly countryside around Yangmei, there are still many farmsteads for which no successor can be found.
