A Day in Ipoh + Taiping: Discovering Taiping’s Hidden Gems

#springitinerary Taiping, the only Malaysian city with a Chinese name, is a charming town about an hour from Ipoh, known for its tin mining history and now a peaceful retirement spot. Highlights include: Han Long Incense Factory: The last handmade dragon incense workshop in Malaysia, where intricate incense is crafted through a months-long process. Dragon incense is important for Chinese religious ceremonies. Charcoal Kilns: Taiping is one of the few places still making traditional charcoal, mostly exported to Japan. The labor-intensive process requires constant fire-watching in hot, humid conditions. 18th Mile Fishing Village: A quiet seafood spot with fresh, affordable local catches. The restaurant features a unique gold ingot-shaped charcoal used sustainably for grilling. This trip blends cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and local flavors — perfect for travelers seeking authentic Malaysian experiences beyond the usual tourist paths #familyfun