Wenqing Soul - TSUTAYA BOOKS
The renowned TSUTAYA BOOKS originated in Daikanyama, Tokyo, Japan. However, you don't need to go to Japan to see one of the world's most beautiful bookstores, as the 'TSUTAYA BOOKS' is now in Taiwan! The central flagship store, opened in Taichung in April 2018, features a consistent use of wood elements, natural lighting, and soft lighting design, offering different charms both day and night. In addition to selling books, lifestyle items, and cultural and creative products, the bookstore has teamed up with Wired Tokyo to create a comfortable environment that combines a café and a bookstore. You can dine while reading the books available in the store. There are also seating areas providing a more reader-friendly space, making TSUTAYA BOOKS a lifestyle and taste. So, when you visit Taichung, be sure to come here and indulge your literary soul!
Dakeng Lovers' Bridge
Dakeng Lovers' Bridge has recently become a popular spot on Instagram. It is a pedestrian viewing bridge, so no vehicles pass through. The bridge features a light pink body and cable design, complemented by a large glass surface that reflects a dreamy, princess-like pink hue. It is highly recommended for couples and friends to come here for photos, guaranteeing stunning pictures that will dominate your social media feed!
Gaomei Wetlands
Gaomei Wetlands is one of the must-visit classic attractions in Taichung. It is not only an important wildlife sanctuary on the west coast but also a great place to watch sunsets and birdwatch. You can also observe wetland ecology and creatures like fiddler crabs on the ecological trail. When the sun sets, the scenery of the lake combined with the slightly dark sky and the reflection on the lake surface gives the illusion of being in a 'mirror of the sky'!
Lavender Forest
Believe that no one can resist the world of fairy tales. In the quiet atmosphere of the Lavender Forest, sunlight filters through the leaves, and a dreamy carousel is nestled within, giving one the illusion of accidentally stepping into a European fairy tale world! From November to April each year, large patches of lavender adorn the area. The park also features many fairy-tale cottages selling lavender-related products. The flower language of lavender is 'waiting for love.' Remember to buy a few lavender sachets to give to friends and family who are still waiting for their Mr. Right!
Lvchuan Riverside
Known as the 'Cheonggyecheon of Taiwan,' 'Lvchuan,' originally named 'Xinsheng Creek,' was a highlight river in Taichung's 'Little Kyoto' plan during the Japanese occupation period. The small Xinsheng Bridge (now Zhongshan Green Bridge) was one of the eight major night scenes in Taichung at that time! The renovation of Lvchuan and Xing Sheng Bridge prioritizes water quality and flood control, breaking traditional riverside landscape renovation methods. It focuses on natural and artistic expression, incorporating public art and utilizing water elements to create a diverse creative art space. It also integrates surrounding historical buildings such as Miyahara Eye Clinic, Zhongshan Green Bridge, and Ying Bridge ruins, creating a culturally rich riverside landscape. Whether for a nighttime stroll or a romantic date, it is very suitable!
A must-visit place for fairies coming to Taichung is, of course, the 'Rainbow Village'! The cute and dreamy graffiti, colorful blocks, make it feel like a fairy tale world. All these graffiti are the work of Grandpa Rainbow—Huang Yongfu. He started painting just to pass the time, drawing whatever came to mind. Unexpectedly, it became so popular that he got more and more enthusiastic. Nearly eighty years old, Grandpa Rainbow picked up his brush and painted the entire alley. These vibrant and lively paintings have become a hot spot on Instagram in recent years, attracting a large number of tourists. It has undoubtedly become a classic 'internet-famous spot' in Taichung!
When you hear everyone recommending the must-visit 'Miyahara Eye Clinic' in Taichung, do you also wonder, 'Why would I go to an eye clinic?' The most surprising thing is that it is actually a dessert shop! Originally the 'Miyahara Eye Clinic Hospital' during the Japanese colonial period, the building suffered from the 921 earthquake and typhoons, making it a dilapidated and unusable structure. However, with the efforts of the Dawn Group, the original name 'Miyahara Eye Clinic' and some of the old architectural structures were preserved. The dilapidated ruins have been transformed into a famous must-visit spot in Taichung—'Miyahara Eye Clinic.' In addition to selling ice cream and various specialty souvenirs, it also offers afternoon tea and meals. Later, the Dawn Group opened another establishment nearby, the 'Fourth Credit Cooperative,' which also repurposes an old building and mainly sells waffles and other desserts. It has a very retro feel, making it a great place for friends, couples, or families to enjoy afternoon tea, take photos, and check in, fully experiencing the slow pace of Taichung!
National Opera House
Even if you don't come to watch a performance, you must visit the Taichung Opera House to witness this century masterpiece! The highly challenging 'curved wall' construction method without beams and columns has received unanimous praise from the architectural community, making it the ninth new landmark in the world. It is also a new popular Instagram check-in spot in Taichung.
Lihpao Discovery Land
Lihpao Outlet is located next to Lihpao Discovery Land, modeled after the Italian resort town of Portofino. The colorful buildings paired with Taiwan's largest Ferris wheel, 'Sky Dream,' create a dreamy scene that feels like Europe, making it a popular spot for women to take endless photos! Besides shopping and enjoying delicious food, visitors can also ride the Ferris wheel to the top for a stunning view of Lihpao. And of course, you can't miss the dreamland of every child—the amusement park. Let's rediscover our inner child at Lihpao Discovery Land!
Luce Memorial Chapel
The Luce Memorial Chapel, uniquely located within a university, is about a 10-15 minute walk from the main gate. It was co-designed and built by renowned architects I.M. Pei and Chen Chi-Kwan, and was completed in 1963. Its unique hyperbolic paraboloid shape exudes magnificence and solemnity from any angle. The serene and solemn atmosphere, complemented by the lush greenery of the surrounding grass and trees, makes it a must-visit spot for both Tunghai University students and visitors, who often take photos with the chapel to capture this sacred moment.
