Falling in love with Taichung’s Caotun Boulevard — where food and art experiences shine again

Taichung is home to numerous specialty restaurants, such as this Shanghai-themed eatery — Crescent Wutong.

The “Central District International Light Spots” covers a wide area, starting from Taichung’s Caotun Boulevard and gradually extending to various locations. It combines various industries such as gourmet dining, local culture, and natural ecology, selecting businesses that highlight the characteristics of central Taiwan for collaboration. The first batch of 51 announced locations is mostly concentrated in the Caotun Boulevard area — commonly known as the section from the National Museum of Natural Science in the north to the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts in the south, spanning Jingguo Green Boulevard and Fine Arts Boulevard. This several-kilometer-long stretch of Caotun Boulevard, as the name suggests, is shaded by greenery, becoming a favorite spot for locals and tourists to relax and stroll. It’s also astonishing how so much greenery can be preserved in such a busy urban area.

Recommended restaurant: Yuli Shared Kitchen

Nestled in a small alley, Yuli Shared Kitchen is located next to National Taichung University of Education, quietly blending in with the residential area. What makes this place unique is its seamless integration of a “bookstore” and a “restaurant,” which doesn’t feel out of place at all, but instead forms a harmonious space. Ascend the stairs of Yuli — the left side is a cozy reading area, while the right has 4.5 dining tables. From the vibrant colors and friendly decor inside, you can feel the liveliness and warmth of home. Notably, there’s also a thoughtful corner with a baby room, full of little surprises.