Ride the "Tanaka" Mercedes-Benz vibe with your kids: cycling, DIY socks, and corn turned into dolls

Text and photos byKui Xiaosun

What kind of city is your hometown? A small town? The scenery along the coast or in the mountains. How many of those everyday life details you grew up with still remain ten or twenty years later in the present or future? We can’t capture these moments or share them with our children through just one photo, one video, or one spoken story—even those details that are starting to blur even for us. As the world keeps spinning forward, do you, like me, find yourself longing for those fields and the tangible, heartfelt sensations of touching things with your own hands? One day, this event arrived in my mailbox: 【The Tanaka Bicycle Rice Hunt Mini-Trip】. Staring at each word in the itinerary, I warmly agreed to take part and picked a holiday to “ride奔驰” to ‘Tanaka’ together. Tanaka, located in Changhua, has the romantic postal code: 520. Lovely—it has a lovely name, a lovely number, and warm-hearted people. When we gathered, we heard the ‘Rice Lovers Band,’ unique to this land of Tanaka. If you can turn on some music, listen along as you read this romantic piece dedicated to Tanaka. Then, slowly follow as I tell you the stories from here.

That day, I took a train to Tanaka Station. As soon as I got off, I saw a row of bicycles waiting for us, each with an orange flag sticking out from the back, like a group of spirited youths—sunny and free-spirited. Looking at them, and those neat, brand-new bikes, I instantly liked the activity arrangements. After gathering at 9:30 AM, there was about a ten-minute introduction to the area of Tanaka. This is when you can hear stories about Changhua’s Tanaka and see many locals sharing their love for their land with genuine heart. After a brief orientation, our group of over twenty people—adults and kids alike—set off in high spirits on our bikes for the day’s journey.

To start with, what really captivated me about this activity was seeing so many parents bringing their kids, including four families who signed up together. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of envy and warmth for such family education and atmosphere. To be honest, I didn’t have many chances to go out with my family when I was a child. These parents set aside their day off work to bring along kids who seemed to be in elementary or middle school. Throughout the day, I didn’t see a single kid wander off or get upset from tiredness. I believe it’s these kinds of parents guiding their children to experience more than just city life—to see a more local side of Taiwan. If you have kids or if you’re traveling solo, why not join an activity like this or visit a place like this? I bet you’ll hear the gentleness this little town has to offer.

Our first stop was the 【Sock Prince Sightseeing Factory】. It was only when we got there that I learned Tanaka used to be a hub for socks. Although the industry has since moved elsewhere, this sightseeing factory has transformed into a paradise where you can DIY sock dolls. Upon arriving at Sock Prince, the robot at the entrance caught the attention of many kids, and the adorable plush toys had everyone snapping photos non-stop.

The first floor has a sock specialty section and a classroom. For larger groups, the DIY sock doll experience takes place on the second floor, so with our big group, we headed straight upstairs to wait for the instructor. While waiting for our spots, we browsed info about the history of Sock Kingdom, which also let the kids learn a bit about Taiwan’s traditional industries.

【Sock Prince, Shenghong Functional Sightseeing Sock Factory】 produces socks for a shocking number of brands, such as Yusan, PGA, YSL, Kitty, ELLE, Pipe, Pierre Cardin, and recently American Foot Smart, German medical brands, Reebok, Target, Nike, Disney, and more. Even the scarves we got on New Year’s Day were made here—pretty amazing, right? The sock dolls hanging on the wall are examples of the styles you can try making that day. I instantly chose to make a ‘shark’ XD. The DIY works we made during the event will be given away as prizes—including sock dolls, corn dolls, as well as hats and guards received during the activity.

The instructor also introduced various designs. Everyone split into tables based on the designs. My chosen ‘shark’ came with super cool Transformer socks in red and black—I could already imagine how fierce that shark would look XD. The materials were quite simple, and the steps were straightforward. Of course, you can use your imagination to customize the animal expressions.

This is my finished product—a chubby, one-of-a-kind shark, the only one like it XD. Because I worked quickly, I had time to observe the other kids and was amazed by how creative they were. They took the materials meant for one design and turned them into something completely different—like Patrick Star from SpongeBob. It reminded me of when my mom used to buy craft books for me, and I’d gather materials to make what I liked. Those little moments still stick with me. Honestly, keeping kids entertained isn’t just about video games, computers, or TV. Often, it’s about whether we can think of a better activity—or whether we’re willing to ‘join in’ ourselves. I think recent events give us all, as parents, a chance to reflect.

After DIY, we went to watch the sock-making machines with a guide explaining everything. We saw different models from various eras, when they were fully manual, when they became semi-automatic, how many units they could produce daily, and even which sizes could make hats. You really don’t realize just how intricate these machines are until you see them in person. The gleaming machines represent years of refinement—their dark bodies shining with pride.

Before leaving, we checked out the first floor. Everyone could browse the sock marketplace. The classroom is smaller but even more charming and cute. For those doing DIY on their own, everyone acted like curious kids, checking the wall to see which doll they’d make.

In the sock marketplace, everyone browsed around. Many parents bought their kids a bunch of cartoon-themed socks. They also sell the New Year’s scarves here every year. While waiting to regroup, we hopped back on our individual bikes and headed to the next destination.

The guides leading our activity were super cheerful. Just look at that profile—you can tell they kept the mood up the whole way and shared lots about local life. Along the ride, before we knew it, we pedaled through vast fields. I hated to just ride past, so I stopped a few times before catching up with the group.

The endless fields felt like they were waiting patiently for our group. I wish I could’ve shared a 360-degree view, but even as they were, those emerald greens mixed with hints of yellow—signaling the shift toward summer—unfolded gently before our eyes. Don’t you think Taiwan has many such scenic fields besides Taitung’s Brown Highway? We just often forget. Without realizing it, you befriend like-minded people, and along the way, you discover others who vibe just like you.

Twenty-plus bikes riding through these fields is truly moving. I wanted to ask everyone to slow down, to soak in more of this freedom, to capture more of these priceless ripples. Following the group, we turned into a traditional courtyard house. We parked our bikes outside and were about to visit the 【Corn Doll Workshop】.

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The corn husks used for making corn dolls differ in softness depending on whether they’re from the inside or outside, and are used accordingly. Watching the corn auntie’s smile—truly the most genuine smile from a small town. The corn grandpa and grandma we didn’t get to meet are also super adorable, so if you want to find them yourselves, remember I’ll note all the location details at the end. Even if you don’t join a group tour, you can still visit Tanaka on your own.

Before the actual corn doll DIY, we enjoyed lunch prepared by the corn auntie. The meal wasn’t fancy, but it was absolutely delicious. Braised pork with preserved plum, sweet potato rice, fried noodles, and pickled cabbage—everyone easily had seconds. So rustic, yet the atmosphere here made it even more special. The corn auntie also said you could take your food outside and sit by the roadside, enjoying the traditional courtyard lighting while savoring the true countryside vibe. This is Tanaka, Taiping Community, home to the Corn Doll Workshop. In its bricks and tiles, you’ll see a lifestyle that’s unpretentious and rich in simplicity—as if everyone lives together without boundaries.

Slow down your pace. Among these houses, gently touch the joints between wooden beams, the weathered wooden doors. I bet you, like me, will drift into a daze—and imagine the beginning and journey of the stories behind each sight and object. Which child grew up here? Which woman got married here? Who still lives here? Who fell in love with this very scenery?

Look up, just like the kids here who kept asking their parents, “What’s this for?” Then tell your child to ask the local guides. Whether the answers come from your own thoughts or you explore them with your child, they’ll be the best role models.

This old tobacco barn also reflects the agriculture of Taiping Community in Tanaka. Aside from two seasonal rice crops, they grow corn and tobacco. The tobacco barn is where harvested tobacco leaves are dried. Now, it’s been turned into the Corn Doll Workshop, where we did our DIY. A tiny lotus flower nearby, small but captivating, caught our eye.

During the post-meal break, kids rode bikes around the courtyard while adults chatted. Have you thought about when you last had a chance to hang out with your neighbors like this in a yard? Watching these little moments, I felt deeply warmed and could easily imagine how happy these kids are. Then the corn auntie brought out our DIY materials, which many of us initially mistook for “enoki mushrooms” XD.

Time to start. Everyone in the workshop was in high spirits. It felt like we all already knew each other, and the mood was just so joyful. I think it’s that inexplicable relaxation you feel upon arriving in a small town that lifts everyone’s spirits.

The corn auntie explained each step carefully and even came around to check on everyone individually. That day, everyone tried making corn girls. At first glance, the material pack might seem simple, but it actually requires a bit more finesse than sock dolls—so it’s perfect for helping everyone focus.

The corn girl I made is also one of the gifts I’m giving away. After finishing, the corn auntie even served up hot, freshly steamed corn—super crispy and sweet. It was supposed to be a reward for answering questions, but she was so impressed by how well everyone behaved, she gave it to everyone XD.

After saying goodbye to the corn grandpa, corn grandma, and corn auntie, we biked to a temple. We parked our bikes there and then walked to the 【Jaboticaba—Black Diamonds Growing on Trees】. Just head up from the left side of the temple. You’ll pass century-old stone embankments, Shenlai Ranch, and walk for about 10 minutes.

Everyone walked slowly, listening to our local guide 【Dad Duo】 share stories about the area—the century-old stone embankments, Shenlai Ranch, and the crops along the way: longan, lychee, pineapple. The gentle uphill walk was still a lot of fun. Here, kids could learn about many fruits and even spot unexpected insects—full of surprises.

Before long, we arrived at the jaboticaba trees. Right away, we got to try jaboticaba popsicles—so refreshing. First, there was an intro about jaboticaba’s origins and a product video, which felt a bit long, but after being out in the sun, taking a break with an ice pop didn’t bother anyone.

Then we followed the host into the orchard. Only a portion of the jaboticaba trees were here, mainly for viewing. The actual large jaboticaba plantations aren’t located in this area. But it was truly fascinating to see the jaboticaba fruits growing right on the trees. Moreover, these jaboticaba fruits have numerous benefits. Those who are interested can look them up online—their value is quite impressive. A single tree can sell for as much as 500,000 RMB, and there are many value-added products that can be derived from them. Who would have thought Taiwan has such a “black diamond growing on a tree”! So unique~

They look just like clusters of grapes growing on tree trunks. The color turns from green to dark purple when they’re ripe. This time, we only saw fruits on two trees. The peak season should be coming soon. Of course, it’s best to confirm the exact timing with the owner. Visiting during the peak season, sipping some juice, and enjoying an ice pop while going on a “black diamond mini-trip” sounds pretty great too XD On the way back, the fields stretched out before us in the distance. The countryside here is truly beautiful. Taiwan is wonderful—there are all kinds of cityscapes and small towns that enrich our hearts with their diverse charms.

The light scattered across the rice paddies, and the gentle breeze made the neatly aligned rice stalks sway like waves. This was the scenery we saw on the road as we rode away. I can’t tell you exactly where it is because if you’re not cycling through this small town, how could you catch this view of the fields? How could you remember to stop and feel the breeze? Or witness the hardworking farmers in their moment of labor? Maybe next time, you can also find a chance to unwind in the fields like this.

On the way back, we passed through Dongxing Community—Gutingben. Next to the Evergreen Bicycle Path, everyone was taking photos to commemorate the visit. Kids were freely riding their bikes. The spinning windmills were made by assembling discarded billboard materials, turning uniformly in the wind, carefree and unrestrained. Here, it felt as though time really did stop. Whether under a tree or along a small path, everything was so simple and enchanting.

Tianzhong is a place full of stories, and there are still many spots I didn’t get to visit. Tianzhong Kiln, Fuxing Community (Flower Path), One Yuan Building Blocks, Tianzhong Forest Park, and more. It seems that only through an in-depth trip can you discover more facets of a small town. Would you like to take a stroll through a rural town? You’re always welcome to roam around Tianzhong in Changhua anytime.

Activity photos are taken from the official fan page [Experience Taiwan, Drive 100].

The full-day activity we joined included two DIY sessions, lunch, guided tours, bicycles, insurance, and more. The original price was 949, but this time it was a trial experience for 499. But honestly, the full-day event from 10 AM to 4–5 PM, exploring the town and hearing so many stories, made me feel that even 949 was worth it, because the memories and experiences gained were worth far more.

Also, I highly recommend that if you can, drive here yourself to slowly enjoy the charm of Taiwan’s “rice bowl.” For registration details of this event, you can check them out here:http://www.beclass.com/rid=163518553550d18dda6d(The event has ended)

Author of this article:[Enjoy Life Without Boredom. Guixiao Sun]