The Hello Kitty Restaurant in Linkou Opens on Lunar New Year’s Day – Hollywood Retro Style Breaks the Pink Stereotype

Good news for Hello Kitty fans in the new year – Taiwan’s first Hollywood-style themed restaurant begins trial operations on Lunar New Year’s Day. The Mitsui Outlet Park and Vista Theater in Linkou have partnered with Sanrio for the first time to launch the “Hello Kitty Red Carpet American Restaurant,” featuring a retro American theme that redefines the typical pastel image of Hello Kitty. It has already created a buzz online even before its official opening.

Breathtaking ocean views await you at these two must-visit train stations: Nandarou in the south and Badouzi in the north.

Taiwan Railways boasts the two most beautiful train stations in Taiwan — “Nandarou in the south, Badouzi in the north.” As soon as you arrive, stunning ocean views greet you, complemented by majestic mountain scenery and railway vistas that attract countless visitors on pilgrimages. Since Badouzi Station officially opened on December 28 last year, the route has been extended from HSR Museum Station to Badouzi Station, offering convenient access for travelers to watch the sunrise in the morning and enjoy the sea breeze in the evening, making it a popular attraction.

Feeling cold and want to warm your feet? Three hot spring foot soaking pools in Beitou reopen on the third day of the Lunar New Year

Friends who want to warm up with a hot spring foot soak during the cold weather, take note: the hot spring foot soaking pools in Fuxing Park, Quanyuan Park, and Sulfur Valley in Beitou will be closed from January 27 (Lunar New Year’s Eve) to January 29 (the second day of the Lunar New Year) during the Spring Festival. They will reopen on January 30 (the third day of the Lunar New Year), operating from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. From January 31 onward, normal opening hours will resume—every Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM—to provide foot soaking services for the public.

A secret base to relive your childhood memories: 7 stunning “treehouse lodges” in Australia

Treehouses are a secret base for many people’s childhoods. To allow travelers to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying high-standard comfortable accommodation, hotel operators in Queensland, Australia, have created unique treehouse lodges inspired by the concept of treehouses. This article selects 7 magical treehouse lodges in Queensland, available from dense rainforests to the inland areas of the Gold Coast. If you have the chance, come and enjoy a different kind of lodging experience!

Super dreamy Instagram-worthy spot: 4 must-visit photogenic attractions at Sun Moon Lake in Nantou!

With its stunning lake and mountain scenery, Nantou’s Sun Moon Lake boasts breathtaking views and is incredibly photogenic, making it one of the favorite spots for many photographers. ETtoday EBC News specially selected 4 picturesque locations around Sun Moon Lake where, with a little effort, every shot can turn out to be a beautiful scene—come and take some amazing photos together!

Want to visit the filming locations of *The Village of No Return* in Pingtung? A 50-million-TWD set was completely dismantled — except for this

The movie *The Village of No Return*, directed by Chen Yu-hsun and produced by Lillian Lee and Yeh Ju-fen, was filmed in 2016 in Manzhou Township on Pingtung’s Hengchun Peninsula. A fictional village was built with an investment of 50 million TWD. Although there were hopes to preserve the set, it was eventually all torn down. Currently, only the costumes of Shu Qi, Chang Hsiao-chuan, and Lin Mei-hsiu are on display at Taipei’s Eslite Songyan branch (formerly known as Taipei Lin Department Store).

Next time you travel abroad with your partner, come here—Nagasaki’s Meganebashi Bridge in Japan to find the “Love Stone”!

Meganebashi is one of Japan’s three most famous bridges and the oldest arched stone bridge in the country. Its most distinctive feature is the two connected circular arches that, when reflected on the water’s surface, resemble a pair of round-framed glasses from afar. In addition to its long history and fame, searching for the hidden “love stone” has become one of the romantic missions for couples visiting this date spot.

Not what you expected: Japan’s three most disappointing tourist spots

Afraid of hitting a snag and ending up glued to your phone? 5 ways to deal with "problematic travel buddies"

Encountering bad weather or unexpected transport issues during a trip is one thing, but dealing with an uncooperative, opinionated, and difficult travel companion is truly infuriating. Aside from choosing the right travel partner, adequate preparation beforehand is key to ensuring a more enjoyable trip. Address potential issues as efficiently as possible to make your journey even better.

Head to the ends of the world to chase the aurora borealis (Southern Lights)! Discover the 6 best aurora-viewing spots in the Southern Hemisphere

The incredibly dreamy aurora is listed by many travelers as a must-see spectacle in a lifetime. In fact, not only can you enjoy breathtaking auroras in the Northern Hemisphere—such as in Canada and Iceland—but travel search website Skyscanner has also specially compiled a list of 6 great Southern Hemisphere destinations for aurora chasing. Be sure to save this list and add these new aurora spots to your travel bucket list!

It felt like stepping into a painting—Taiwan’s Instagram-famous Xiaobayan in Tamsui

After the Pokemon Go craze died down recently, the spawn rates of many rare Pokémon dropped significantly. While I’m not addicted to the game, seeing my Pokédex incomplete made me feel like something was missing. “Let’s take a walk in Tamsui,” said Foodie Dad—but what he really meant was, “Maybe we’ll spot a Dragonite in Tamsui, haha.” Still, I didn’t want to wander aimlessly around Tamsui, so while I was about to Google photography spots there, Foodie Dad nudged his phone toward me and said, “Look, the new ‘Water Center.’”

Like a fairyland on earth！One of the "Most Beautiful Towns in the World" you must visit in your lifetime is in Austria

Colorful little houses stand among the mountains, reflected in the clear lake—this image paints the impression many have of Hallstatt. Located in Austria, the lakeside town has gained fame for its picturesque scenery while still retaining an original, rustic charm. The breathtaking beauty has earned it the title of "the most beautiful town in the world," attracting travelers from all over the globe.

Unstoppable popularity: 5 beef noodle shops in Taichung loved by locals

CNN once reported that "a bowl of beef noodles takes you on an authentic Taipei experience," as Taipei offers beef noodles in all price ranges and flavors—from the highly popular Lin Dongfang Beef Noodles to the nearly NT$500 Jinghua Beef Noodles. But beyond Taipei, delicious beef noodles can also be found across Taiwan, including five popular spots in Taichung beloved by locals.

Don’t just visit Seoul when you go to Korea – 5 must-photograph spots in Busan that first-timers can’t miss!

For many K-pop fans, Seoul is the top overseas destination, but with many airlines recently expanding their services to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city is now just over two hours away. This coastal metropolis offers a completely different vibe from Seoul. If it’s your first time in Busan, don’t miss these Instagram-worthy spots that even Korean girls are crazy about.

Hidden Gem in Hong Kong: Vegetarian-Friendly Tofu Dessert Buffet!

The silky-smooth texture and rich bean flavor of handmade tofu pudding always keep you coming back for more — sometimes you just can’t resist going for a second bowl. To ensure every visitor who comes specifically for tofu pudding leaves fully satisfied, there’s a tofu shop in Ho Sheung Heung, Hong Kong, offering an incredibly generous deal: HK$12 for all-you-can-eat soy milk and tofu pudding. It’s super budget-friendly!

Soaking in hot springs is a must during the cold winter months. Nestled in Japan’s northeastern Tohoku region, Miyagi Prefecture is home to several quaint, serene, and lesser-known hot spring hideaways. Among them are spots that feel like you’ve stepped right into the world of "Spirited Away", with many nostalgic bathhouses even recognized as national heritage sites in Japan. This article selects 5 of Miyagi’s most enchanting hot spring retreats. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxing holiday, consider adding these to your list.

Couples, come on a date and shine bright together！ Nantou Sun Moon Lake’s 2 Super Romantic Spots

Nantou’s Sun Moon Lake is beloved by travelers for its breathtaking lake views. But beyond its stunning scenery, there are also 2 incredibly romantic spots here that are perfect for Valentine’s Day vibes—ideal for couples to visit and enjoy some sweet moments together！

You must try the "Flaming Alaska" when in Taichung！A restaurant that recreates the Ark from the Bible

Artists Wusiai Aile and VOX Play Vocalist Chung Yihun welcomed their daughter Zhong Ai in late 2016. Recently, the couple visited Taichung to introduce fans to the “Fide Ark” restaurant, which features a signature dessert called the “Flaming Alaska.” When served, the dish is flambéed tableside, leaving them amazed, and they couldn't stop raving about how delicious it was. They believe that when you're in Taichung, this is the gourmet restaurant you have to visit.

Avoid pointing at people with your index finger or giving alcohol as a gift: 10 unspoken rules for traveling in Malaysia

Malaysia is a multi-ethnic nation composed of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and various indigenous peoples. The population is primarily made up of these three major ethnic groups: Malays, Chinese, and Indians. The blending and collision of these distinct and unique cultures are reflected in the local attire, cuisine, entertainment, and social values. With such a rich and complex multicultural tapestry, what are the key etiquette tips and cultural considerations travelers should keep in mind when visiting Malaysia?

A Taste of Local Flavor: 10 Must-Try Foods at Tainan Yongle Market

Although Taipei recently issued a challenge to Tainan’s title as the food capital of Taiwan, in most people’s minds, Tainan truly boasts an abundance of delicious food—from beef soup and eel noodles to minced pork rice, savory congee, and danzai noodles—it’s simply endless. Among them, Tainan Yongle Market is a well-known hub for local snacks, with many long-established, historic vendors. OpenRice has specially compiled a list of 10 must-visit foods at Yongle Market. If you visit Tainan without trying any of these ten, you can’t really say you’ve been there.