2013 Teddy Bear Taichung Carnival — 100 life-sized bears on the loose!

Photos & Text byEnjoying life without getting bored. By Xiao Sun

I missed the chance to see the yellow rubber duck in Taichung. But I’m truly happy and excited that Taichung has been chosen to host this year’s ‘Teddy Bear Carnival.’ Ever since I heard the news, I’ve been keeping a close eye on the official Teddy Bear fan page, worried I might miss something — especially the outdoor teddy bears, which I’m most eager to see.

The outdoor teddy bear exhibition kicked off on November 28th. Early in the morning, I cheerfully grabbed my camera and headed out, traveling along Zhonggang Road. For a moment, I forgot that Chaofu Road doesn’t allow left turns, so I ended up taking a detour before finally reaching my first stop — Qiuhong Valley.More adorable teddy bear photos<<<<<

Upon arriving at Qiuhong Valley, it was obvious that around ten colorful painted teddy bears had been placed around the perimeter. This area had the highest concentration of teddy bears in the entire valley. Looking down from a distance, you could spot a giant inflatable pink bear right next to the Water Dance Restaurant — it was incredibly eye-catching from afar.

After parking the car, I started searching for the bears along the path. Already, I saw many fellow early birds — people with cameras and phones, all trying to capture shots of the bears.

Each teddy bear was painted by a different company or business, resembling oversized plush toys. Although they stood at 173 cm, they didn’t feel as tall as I’d imagined — more or less my height — but that height was just perfect.

Often, people would stop to take pictures with their favorite bears. Even though I’d arrived early, I could still feel a warm atmosphere.

Walking around the Water Dance Restaurant area, I checked out the giant inflatable pink bear. It looked so light and fluffy — it’s sure to be a hit with kids. This spot also had the second-highest concentration of teddy bears in Qiuhong Valley, with about five bears in view.

After walking around the loop, I returned to the very front — the area with the most teddy bears in Qiuhong Valley — and photographed each one. You can imagine this place will be packed on weekends, so everyone coming to find the bears, please be a little more patient, okay? ^_________^ y

In the city, even the smallest things, the tiniest moments of beauty, can make you feel warm — especially during winter. We really need that kind of warmth that naturally radiates from within.

Smiles just bloom naturally.

The other teddy bears were scattered along the wooden boardwalks and stone paths of Qiuhong Valley, quietly waiting in this corner of Taichung for people who appreciate them to come closer.

When leaving Qiuhong Valley, I remembered that the Teddy Bear event website mentioned “Huilai Road” as another location, but I didn’t see any bears there in the morning. Also, when I passed by Taichung City Hall Square, there were only 3–5 bears left on the viewing stands — they seemed not quite set up yet.

So I drove straight to the Qinxin Museum of Art, which I really love. Sure enough, upon reaching Caotun Boulevard, I found tons of bears!
I quickly found a roadside parking spot and hurried over.

From the National Taiwan Hotel side all the way to Civic Square, there were bears everywhere. Of course, there were also some inside the Qinxin Museum of Art, but because of limited opening hours — and since I’ve photographed the museum so many times before — I decided to skip it for now.

Because on Caotun Boulevard and Civic Square, you really feel like there are so many bears that it’s just so satisfying!

Along the way, I had a fun discovery: lots of kindergarten kids, holding hands — boys holding girls’ hands — all following their teacher, marching along obediently, taking turns or grouping up to take photos with the teddy bears.

Seeing this, I, who loves kids, momentarily forgot that the teddy bears were even the main attraction.

Seeing those little children, all under 100 cm tall, running around the teddy bears — every child’s smile was so cute and pure.

I think this is a crucial part of the event. It’s not just about tourism or doing business. When we walk among them, if the painting on ‘just one’ little bear makes you smile, then that’s the most important thing of all. Sometimes, we just need to remember that.

Along the way, the painted bears included ones with mustaches, briefcase-carrying mustachioed bears, ones wearing top hats like English gentlemen, some entirely red, others shining bright golden yellow. I didn’t photograph every single one — mostly just the ones I liked.

Looking at the unique appearance of each teddy bear — what’s on their ears or what they’re holding in their hands — each one tells or represents a story.

If you like one, gently take a photo with it.

Remember, be gentle.

Because only if we cherish them will they have the chance to bring happiness and joy to people, again and again.

Near the勤 Art Museum is a place I really enjoy coming to. Though I know it will one day inevitably become something else — perhaps a new building, or a hotel? But maybe it also wants to leave us with certain feelings and memories.

It makes you always recall that place — who you went with, what you saw there, who you had a date with there, and who you walked with there. It’s as simple as a song; years later, it brings back that melody and the warmth in your heart.

The teddy bears are really here now！Colorful, heartwarming teddy bears that bring joy just by looking at them. They’re in Taichung with us for Christmas and 2013. Whether you're from Taichung or not, welcome to visit Taichung, and come to these places to find them.

［Enjoy life, never boring. By 规小孙］Fan page

2013 Teddy Bear Taichung Happy Living Carnival Fan Page

2013 Teddy Bear Taichung Happy Living Carnival Official Website

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