Seconds away from Japan: Eat shaved ice and chill on the second floor of a hidden gem on Taichung’s Caotun Boulevard

▲ Spend a relaxing weekend sipping tea at Taichung’s Caotun Boulevard. (Photo/IG user, please do not reproduce without permission.)judy419_Provided, please do not reproduce or photograph without permission to avoid infringement.

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Caotun Boulevard is a popular spot for many to relax on weekends. After shopping and strolling, if you want to unwind with a cup of tea, head to the Japanese-style haven 《Yunquan Tea House》. With its black roof and wooden cabin, it gives off a serene vibe. The century-old Taichung pastry shop “Chen Yun Bao Quan” at Caotun Boulevard truly captures an old-school charm, and the second-floor Yunquan Tea House has recently become a super-popular spot for cool treats in the heat.

▲ The outdoor courtyard even features romantic bubble displays. (Photo/IG user, please do not reproduce without permission.)negaihoshiProvided, please do not reproduce or photograph without permission to avoid infringement.

▲ The first floor is a bakery and pastry shop. (Photo/IG user, please do not reproduce without permission. The same applies to the following.)judy419_Provided, please do not reproduce or photograph without permission to avoid infringement, the same applies below.

Chen Yun Bao Quan is famous for its traditional Chinese pastries. As a century-old shop, it naturally carries a vintage feel. Stepping into the Caotun Boulevard store feels like a one-second trip to Japan, with its classic Chinese ambiance filled with the scent of wood. Once inside, you’ll find yourself naturally quiet. The first floor sells bread and desserts from the century-old bakery, and their ice cream dorayaki is also a bestseller. The second floor is the perfect place for tea.

▲ Tatami seating makes you feel like you’re in Japan.

Not only is the decor retro, but even the chairs and tables are on tatami floors. The Japanese-style dining environment makes you feel like you’ve stepped into Japan, allowing you to sit down and enjoy your tea mindfully. The store’s Yuzhen Jintang shaved ice is also hugely popular. The shop uses Marukyu Koyamaen matcha powder to make the matcha syrup, paired with smooth red beans and topped with a chewy mochi pearl – just looking at it makes your mouth water. In addition, they’ve introduced a “Lazy Ice” option, where customers who don’t want to sit down can drop coins in a basket, and the ice is lowered down through a hole — a fun gimmick that’s also become a unique attraction.

▲ Refreshing Yuzhen Jintang matcha shaved ice.

《Yunquan Tea House》
Address: No. 136, Xiangshang North Road, West District, Taichung City
Phone: 04 2302 7552
Business Hours: 11:30 - 21:00