We pitched our tent, hung our hammocks under a large thorn tree near the hot spring, and lit a fire to grill chicken. The forest was quiet, with only the two of us and “Mr. Tang”, my little dog, by the fire. We took turns tending the fire and soaking in the hot mineral pool under the open sky. A well of fresh, cool water drilled in the midst of the hot and brackish underground water was also fascinating. After three rounds of soaking in the hot mineral water and rinsing off with the cool fresh water, we enjoyed dinner in this pristine, tranquil forested mountain setting.

The next day, the forest birds woke me up early. Mr. Tang had wandered off and I climbed the ranger station’s observation tower to watch the sunrise. The fiery red sun peeked through the clouds, casting golden rays over the mountains and forests. White clouds floated over the summit of Ta Kou. Hearing Mr. Tang in the distance, I followed his tracks to find him barking up a tree, likely having spotted a squirrel.

Strolling along the path between the dunes and marsh, I was captivated by the tall grasses with yellow flowers or dry black buds heavy with dew, like girls adorned with strings of pearls, holding hands and dancing by the marsh. The hot spring steamed in the crisp morning air. I stood mesmerized by this misty scene’s mystical beauty until I was startled by my companion’s calls. After breakfasting on instant noodles with forest vegetables, we continued exploring the forest, picking ripe red garcinia fruit and male pitcher plant flowers to dry for tea. Occasionally, squirrels darted across the branches, making Mr. Tang bark loudly.