Taiwan

DVD. Cosmos Global Documentaries. 52 Minutes. Taiwan is an island of gods, ghosts and pagodas with an abundance of legendary treasures and a cultural inheritance that can still be seen in all its age-old splendour. Numerous of its sanctuaries reflect the traditional culture of China and in contrast to the People's Republic, here Chinese culture has been extremely well preserved. With around two and a half million inhabitants Taipei is the island's largest city and also the capital of Taiwan, a metropolis that reflects both old and new. Taipei's Bao-An Temple was dedicated to the deity of medicine, Baosheng Dadi, a god that was once mainly worshipped in the Chinese province of Fujian. In contrast to the island's many other sanctuaries the Chih Nan temple complex is inhabited by around fifty monks. The monastic community underlines the extraordinary importance of this sanctuary for both Taiwanese Taoistm and Buddhism. Dedicated to Taoism, the temple complex of Chih Nan is one of the most important seats of religious education in Taiwan. Due to its two hundred or more large temple complexes and numerous small shrines, Tainan, is also known as The City Of Temples and although the Tien Gon Temple is one of the city's most recently built sanctuaries it is very popular with the local population. On the western coast of Taiwan is the small harbour town of Lukang that was the first landing place for many of the immigrants who arrived from the Chinese region of Fujian. Lungshan's "Dragon Temple" dates back to the Qing Dynasty and was built to commemorate the Goddess Of Charity, Kuan-Yin, who had once transported immigrants safely to the island and was worshipped as the Patron Saint of seafarers. An almost totally lost part of historic China lives on in Taiwan, a legendary island of gods, spirits and pagodas because this island at the end of the rainbow has somehow managed to retain its thousands of years old traditions and beliefs.

DVD. 7 Days. 52 Minutes. Taiwan, the Beautiful Island or, `Ilha Formosa: 'a land of gods, spirits and temples - an island at the end of a rainbow!This south east Asian island is separated from the Chinese mainland by the Formosa Strait that at its narrowest point is a 130 kilometers wide. Taipei is a pulsating metropolis in the north of the island in which emperors' treasures and chaotic traffic highlight both industrial strength and a Chinese way of life. In the old town district of Wan Hua is the city's oldest and most precious Buddhist temple of Lungshan Szu, the Dragon Mountain Temple. The Sun Yi Sen Memorial Hall was built to commemorate the centenary of the founder of the Republic of China. His efforts brought about the abdication of the last emperor and the birth of the Republic Of China. The Confucius Temple is a place of contemplation and is a replica of the Temple Of Qu Fu, Qu Fu having been the home town of Confucius. This silent place is one of five temples in Taiwan dedicated to the great Chinese philosopher, Confucius, the founder of a religion that even today has many followers. The past importance of the former Taiwanese capital of Tainan is indicated by the city's many temple complexes that contain an abundance of sacred works of art. Religion still plays a central role in the daily life of the people and the Tien Gon Temple is the most important temple in Taiwan. Taiwan is an island full of magical charm, fascinating works of art and breathtaking natural wonders. The legacy of Confucius mixed with the bright hope of the future. Taiwan embodies a symbiosis of industrialization and Chinese tradition. The success of capitalism confirmed by the eternal words, "Made in Taiwan!"

DVD. Globe Trekker. Hong Kong and Taiwan are two islands inextricably linked by their huge neighbor. Modern metropolises full of eastern traditions, they're forging forward in the 21st century as China's little dragons. Traveler Megan McCormick begins her journey in Hong Kong, looking out at the incredible skyline from Victoria Peak. She then takes in the contrasts of the city, before taking the ferry to visit Tap Mum Chau and Lantau Island. After a flight to Taiwan she explores the capital, ending her trip with a visit to its most remote outpost - Orchid Island. Along the way... $_$_START_LIST ? Drive through the stunning Taroko Gorge. ? Place your bets at the Happy Valley Racecourse. ? Take a lesson in Tai Chi on the Kowloon waterfront. ? Experience a glorious sunrise from the peak of Jade Mountain. ? Indulge yourself with a shopping trip to the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone. $_$_END_LIST

DVD. Global Treasures. 10 Minutes. Although the exterior of the Lungshan Temple may appear to be somewhat modest, the sanctuary is one of the most well known architectural landmarks of the Taiwanese town of Lukang. Built in the eighteenth century this Buddhist sanctuary on the San Min Road is not only the oldest temple in Lukang but also the oldest in the whole of Taiwan. Chinese settlers originally built it for their important goddess, Kuan-Yin, who led her followers to the island of Taiwan. The strong September winds and the security of the local people in the old part of town gave rise to the unusual, winding layout of Chinseng Lane. Its many curves were designed to make it difficult for thieves to gain entrance to this part of town and also to reduce the severity of the treacherous winds. In the heart of Lukang the China of old still continues to thrive and even today the former merchant's houses are a captivating sight. The highly developed skills of the former Chinese craftsmen are evident in many buildings of the old town such as Gin Mern Hall. Due to its wealth of historic buildings and also to its many flourishing arts and crafts, today Lukang is one of the most fascinating towns in Taiwan.

DVD. Global Treasures. 10 Minutes. Located close to the coast, the former Taiwanese capital of Tainan is both historically and culturally one of the country's most fascinating cities. Fort Provintia dates back to the time when the Dutch ruled the city. In the 17th century the fort was located on the waterfront and in those days passing ships were strictly observed. The Kuang Kung Temple is the tallest `war-god-temple' in Taiwan. The present buildings were built at the beginning of the 18th century although the foundations were built much earlier. Tainan also contains the oldest Confucian temple on the island. The sanctuary and its adjoining school were founded in 1665 and were gradually extended. The majority of the buildings date back to 1715 when the temple site, built according to unique Ming design, was further developed. The fascinating cultural heritage of the historic city of Tainan is still very much alive today in its numerous temples, ancient monuments and magnificent works of art.

DVD. Vista Point. 26 Minutes. Taipei is a pulsating metropolis in the north of the South Asian island state of Taiwan, a land of gods, spirits and temples. With around three million inhabitants it is the largest city in Ilha Formosa, a beautiful island that is located a hundred and thirty kilometres from the Chinese mainland. The famous Grand Hotel is the most impressive building in Taipei and is in the typical Chinese palace design of the Ming Dynasty. The large interior hall of the fine building is supported by massive red pillars and it features a magnificent open staircase with marble banisters. The south western edge of the city was where wealthy trader, Lin An Tai, once had a huge residence. It is one of the most well preserved examples of a building in the style of a classical southern Chinese residence and designed according to the strict rules of Feng Shui and Chinese Geomancy. The Confucius Temple is a place of contemplation and a replica of the Temple Of Qu Fu, Qu Fu having been the home town of Confucius. A large wall surrounds both the temple and its inner courtyard. This silent place is one of five temples in Taiwan dedicated to the great Chinese philosopher who founded a religion that even today has many followers. Taipei is one of the fastest growing cities in the world, a modern Asian metropolis that is full of ancient traditions as well as futuristic flair.

Weekend Explorer. 35 Minutes. Episode Highlights Although people around the world are familiar with products "Made in Taiwan," few are familiar with the actual island. Portuguese Explorers arrived here in 1517 and called it Isla Formosa, Beautiful Island. Come along as we experience the vibrant beat of the capital city of this "Little Asian Tiger," thrill at the athletic feats of a Chinese Opera, hike among fantastically shaped seaside rocks, visit a beautiful Taoist temple, go out on the town to one of the city's hottest night clubs, practice Tai Chi at the Chiang Kaishek Memorial, and visit the world's tallest building. Series Description Join the adventure as Emmy awarded host Jeffrey Lehmann takes you to incredibly scenic travel destinations around the world in this award winning series. Each episode features a unique destination's best-kept secrets and traditional landmarks. The "Weekend Explorer" series aired on over 210 PBS stations nationwide, HBO in Europe, Delta Airlines in-flight, and in numerous other foreign countries

Nature Wonders. 10 Minutes. In the language of the Ami, an indigenous people of Taiwan, Taroko means `beautiful', a word that most certainly describes the famous Taroko Gorge that is to be found on the East West Cross Island Highway, a truly exceptional panoramic route. Magnificent waterfalls plunge down the rock walls of the Gorge while the high mountains of the Taroko National Park provide a majestic backdrop. The fascinating marble walls of the Taroko Gorge extend for hundreds of metres and each year attract a growing number of visitors. In the hills and mountains above the gorge, as well as within the surrounding forests, live the Asian Black Bear and 33 additional mammals, plus more than 140 species of bird. The Taroko Gorge is most certainly well worth a visit!

Nature Wonders. 10 Minutes. The pathless mountain region of Alishan, in the heart of Taiwan, is famous for its magnificent forests and huge cypress trees. As though in a fairy-tale world, the roots of the giant trees spread like mystical tentacles across the ground. According to legend, two sisters killed themselves by drowning in the 'Pond of Two Sisters' due to their unhappiness caused by unrequited love. Even today, this place possesses both a romantic and poignant atmosphere and is one of Alishan's most popular tourist attractions. Thought to be 3,000 years old, the Alishan Sacred Tree is quite outstanding. In 1956, it was struck by lightning and died, yet the dead giant has lost nothing of its mighty appearance. Indeed, in the Tree Spirit Pagoda, the spirit of these ancient and honorable trees is still worshipped today. Each of Alishan's trees are a unique natural wonder and a true testament to the amazing power and diversity of nature.

DVD. On Tour. 26 Minutes. Located in the centre of Taiwan is the legendary Alishan Forest Railway that is extremely popular with both railway enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The starting point of the fascinating journey into the rainforests and mountain world of Taiwan is Chiayi. When visiting Chiayi it is a must to visit the authentic marketplace in which there is just about everything. The markets have retained their original charm and whether simple or exotic the food is simply delicious. The Alishan Express has traveled between Chiayi and the mountain station of Chushan, since 1986. The route becomes steeper and steeper as the narrow gauge train travels tentatively into the higher regions and also into changing weather. Luxury is the last thing that can be expected on the Alishan Express as the carriages are extremely basic. The town of Alishan was named after the mountains of the same name and in recent years it has developed into one of the most popular tourist destinations in Taiwan. The Giant Trees Trail has become popular with walkers. It leads through an unusual forest that is full of thousands of years old trees, the "Trees Of Three Generations", ancient trees that have developed in a fascinating way. The first sunbeams mark the next day in the mountains when the legendary Alishan Forest Railway will bring with it new visitors who will experience the unique and wonderful mountain world of Alishan.

Weekend Explorer. 35 Minutes. Episode Highlights Portuguese Explorers arrived in Taiwan in 1517 and called it Isla Formosa, Beautiful Island. Still today, there is a beautiful wild side to Taiwan that few people even know exists. Come along as we travel down the east coast of Taiwan and experience a beautiful temple overlooking the Pacific Ocean, tour the steep high marble cliffs of spectacular Taroko Gorge, hike to incredibly beautiful waterfalls, take a crazy whitewater rafting trip, enjoy a dance performance at an aboriginal village, and explore the wonders of Kenting National Park. Series Description Join the adventure as Emmy awarded host Jeffrey Lehmann takes you to incredibly scenic travel destinations around the world in this award winning series. Each episode features a unique destination's best-kept secrets and traditional landmarks. The "Weekend Explorer" series aired on over 210 PBS stations nationwide, HBO in Europe, Delta Airlines in-flight, and in numerous other foreign countries.

Nature Wonders. 10 Minutes. In the north of Taiwan, close to the second largest harbor in Keelung, is one of the world's greatest natural wonders. Due to its bizarre rock formations, Yehliu Park provides visitors with scenery that could be from a distant planet. But the polymorphic shapes of the rock are not extraterrestrial but the result of an ancient process that dates back several million years, erosion. Some of the rocks seem to grow out of the ground like giant mushrooms. The reason for this lies in the composition of the rock strata. The more elevated sections are often far harder and weatherproof than the lower layers that crumble away and have been transformed into gravel and sand. In 1964, the Yehliu Peninsula was officially designated as a park and since then it has been one of Taiwan's most important and popular tourist attractions. The park consists of a total area of around 53 hectares of land and more than 400 hectares of coast. Its rocky terrain flanks the South China Sea. The Queen's Head is Yehliu's world famous landmark. But even this amazing natural work of art shows sign of aging. However, Yehliu will still be known as an outstanding wonder of nature, as wind, salt and water continue to sculpt its scenery and thus create further spectacular and imaginative rock formations for future generations to come.