A Journey to Taiwan’s Wild Heart

The train rattled rhythmically, leaving the gray city skyline behind. Outside the window, the view shifted dramatically, first to the deep, endless blue of the Pacific Ocean, and then, as we turned inland, to the lush green embrace of the East Rift Valley in Hualien.

I was on a mission to find the soul of BraveOn.

East Rift Valley

The Hidden Treasures of the Riverbed

I met the artisan in a home that felt more like a greenhouse. The air was faint with an indescribable fragrance earthy, raw, and calming. He pointed to the plants filling his space. "These," he said, "are the scents of our land."

They weren't rare orchids or imported roses. They were reeds, river weeds, and wild plants I

had walked past a thousand times without a second glance. In his hands, these overlooked "weeds" became inspiration.

Bears, Rifles, and the Riverbed

To understand the true source of these scents, we had to go deeper. We left the road behind and began tracing the riverbed, walking upstream over the rough, grey stones of the valley.

Riverbed in Hualien

Deep in the mountains, we crossed paths with a group of indigenous men. They weren't just passing through; they were there to repair the water pipes that snake through the cliffs the lifelines of the village.

One of them stood apart, a hunting rifle slung over his shoulder. He wasn't hunting for sport; he was standing guard. He looked at us unarmed city dwellers exploring the river and gave a stern, quiet warning:

"Be careful. The Formosan Black Bears are out."

We froze for a second. We had no weapons, only a fierce curiosity to find the botanicals hiding in this terrain. But looking at the vast, untouched nature around us, we realized that this danger was part of the beauty.

We pressed on. That moment defined us. That is why we are BraveOn.

The Scent of Serenity

Safely back in civilization, we sat in a quiet coffee shop run by a friend. The artisan lit a stick of incense made from our harvest.

The smoke spiraled up, and the world stopped.

I was transported. The noise of the train, the fear of the bears, the rush of the city it all vanished. I found myself testing different scents: Lemongrass, Ginger Lily... and then, Wild Bitter Melon.

I hesitated. I have always detested the bitter taste of this vegetable. But as the scent filled the air, I was shocked. It wasn't bitter. It was profound, cleansing, and deeply grounding. It became my instant favorite.

 Ma Fo Pottery and incense

From the Mountains to Your Home

That afternoon, surrounded by the smoke and the beautiful ceramic incense holders by Ma Fo Pottery I knew I had to bring this experience to you.

BraveOn is not just about products. It is about that journey. It is the scent of the wild riverbeds, the bravery of the mountain trek, and the quiet peace of a coffee shop sanctuary.

As we launch our website today, we invite you to light a stick, close your eyes, and travel to the wild heart of Taiwan with us.

Shop the Collection : https://www.braveontw.com