Living with Less: A Boutique Homestay in Hualien’s Alleys by a “New Hualien Resident”

Text and Photos / Excerpted from *Moving to Hualien: Practicing an Ideal Life with 30 New Hualien Residents*, published by MacKay Publishing

Guided by the warm glow of a soft yellow light, you push open the door to “Fa Cai Time” and find a sense of home in a foreign land—this is the unique charm of Fa Cai Time, evoking the feeling of coming home anytime. The homestay owner, Guan Yu, gently and attentively brews coffee for guests, chatting with them about their experiences throughout the day in Hualien, leaving a light on for every traveler seeking a home away from home.

Brotherhood That Planted Seeds of Love for Hualien

Having run Fa Cai Time Homestay for nearly eight years now, Guan Yu admits he never expected to settle in Hualien. Back then, he came to help his sister, who was growing organic fruit in Hualien, with her harvest. His entire family moved to Hualien to assist with her fruit farming business. It was then that he truly understood how much effort farmers put in to deliver the pure, safe, and organic produce people enjoy. To help his sister sell her hard-grown peaches without being exploited by middlemen, he got involved in the peach harvesting and sales process. During his time in Hualien, he also actively participated in public campaigns against the construction of the Su-Hua Highway and other projects. These deep concerns for the land led him to choose to put down roots in Hualien.

After deciding to relocate to Hualien, Guan Yu’s family bought a home there and decided to share part of their living space with travelers, which gave birth to Fa Cai Time. Guan Yu set up an art and cultural exhibition space in the homestay, displaying locally published works and pieces by Hualien-based artists. This allows travelers, even during their short stays, to experience the simple yet powerful beauty of Hualien through the art around them.

Additionally, with environmental sustainability in mind, Fa Cai Time unusually does not provide disposable toothbrushes. Guan Yu knows that in Hualien, countless hotels and homestays can generate thousands of disposable toothbrushes in a single night, and since toothbrushes are classified as medical waste, they cannot be recycled. To promote eco-friendly practices, Guan Yu personally writes blog posts in his spare time, continuously reminding people of the importance of reusing toothbrushes. He hopes that when guests stay at Fa Cai Time, they might indirectly change their long-held lodging habits. He believes that with persistent effort, environmental consciousness can be integrated into daily life.

Book Clubs Foster Connection and a Sense of Belonging

Looking back, Guan Yu smiles as he recalls that the early days of running the homestay were not entirely smooth. In the beginning, they often used the basement of the homestay to hold regular book clubs, where everyone could discuss books and music they enjoyed, helping to build a sense of community. They also supported fellow newcomers to Hualien, like himself, helping them find a sense of belonging in a foreign land through shared experiences. Furthermore, the friendly shops opened by both new and long-time residents were able to connect and introduce one another, spreading the beauty of Hualien to more visitors from afar.
When asked what attitude young people who are considering moving to Hualien should have, Guan Yu shared his perspective: “Life is your own—you shouldn’t live it for the expectations of others.” Before the age of thirty, Guan Yu wasn’t entirely sure which path he wanted to pursue, but he at least knew what he “didn’t” want. It was this firm resolve that helped him find a clear direction and let go of the hectic lifestyle he “didn’t” want.

Guan Yu, who enjoys sharing his life experiences, maintains a familial bond with guests who have stayed with him several times, taking joy in the messages they send. This kind of genuine care is something you won’t find in other homestays or hotels. Guan Yu’s thoughtful hospitality has helped many wanderers find a sense of home in this foreign land of Hualien.

A Second Light Left for Travelers

Originally searching for their next home, Guan Yu and his sister stumbled upon a house hidden in an alley. While others saw only its neglect, they saw the simple beauty buried beneath the bricks. To renovate this old house, Guan Yu and his sister learned the ropes of restoration step-by-step from a master craftsman. Seeing their dedication, the craftsman smiled and said, “I’ve never seen such dedicated owners!”

Reflecting on this apprenticeship period, Guan Yu can’t help but smile. Learning from the master was not only out of respect for traditional craftsmanship but also a way to infuse emotion into every detail of the process. Guan Yu named the renovated old house “No. 27 in the Quiet Alley,” making it his second homestay after Fa Cai Time. However, he hopes that No. 27 will primarily host guests staying for two nights or more, allowing them to fully appreciate the simplicity, tranquility, and beauty preserved within. When sunlight floods the floor and the air is filled with the aroma of fruit tea, the open indoor space fosters a familiar, family-like interaction. Stepping through the door, you’re greeted by a deep yearning and attachment that feels just like coming home.

From Moving His Entire Family to Hualien to Running Two Homestays, Guan Yu Ponders What Hualien Lacks