Hobo Lolo

Getting There   Our adventure began with a cross-continental journey—first flying from Northern Virginia to the Bay Area, where we met up with my parents-in-law. From there, we embarked on a long-haul flight to Hokkaido via Taiwan, departing from San Francisco International Airport. Though the trip was long, the excitement of the adventure ahead kept our spirits high. What to Bring Exploring Japan by car? Don’t forget an International Driver’s License! Car rentals require it, along with your regular driver’s license. Even though our rental car came equipped with a navigation system, nothing beats the convenience of Google Maps on a smartphone. Late October in Hokkaido brings crisp air and chilly temperatures, often dropping to freezing. A winter jacket is a must to stay warm while enjoying the stunning fall scenery. Schedule Day 0, Sun Oct 16 We kicked off our journey with a reunion in the Bay Area before boarding our flight from SFO to CTS via TPE the next day....

Our journey through Taiwan was nothing short of spectacular. With seven of us—my parent-in-law, my brother, Michelle’s aunties, and ourselves—we embarked on a week-long adventure, weaving through Taiwan’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine. With a private van and driver arranged by Michelle, we explored at our own pace, making unforgettable memories along the way. Schedule Day 1 (Sun Oct 23): Arrival in Taipei & A Night Market Feast After flying in from Sapporo, we landed at Taoyuan International Airport, where our private van whisked us away to Ximen, Taipei. That evening, we kicked off our Taiwan adventure with a food lover’s dream—Shilin Night Market. Every bite, from sizzling scallion pancakes to juicy Taiwanese sausages, was a celebration of the island’s rich street food culture. Day 2(Mon Oct 24): Northern Taiwan’s Coastal Wonders The next morning, our van picked us up for a breathtaking coastal drive north of Taipei. We wandered ...