Shake off the "urban" dust & embark on a rainbow brick journey in Yilan

Photos & Text byXiao Hu, Dream-Eating Web

If I had to name the biggest takeaway from my three years of blogging, it would absolutely be meeting so many incredible people—whether vendors, shop owners, PR reps, big bosses, fellow bloggers, or even foodies I came to know through my posts. Over time, sharing meals turned into deep connections.

Today, Xiao Hu wants to highlight Xiao Lan Ge. Regular readers might often hear me mention him—he’s behind around 80% of Yilan’s food and attraction spots I’ve covered, including the most unique ones designed by renowned architect Huang Shengyuan.


Huang Shengyuan is a big name in Yilan. Many attractions designed by him and his team are located here. Previously, I shared the 《Luodong Cultural Factory》 and 《Yuanshan Aircraft Bunker – Part 2 of Huang Shengyuan’s Trilogy》, and the Jiaoxi Township Office mentioned in 《Stop 26 – Jiaoxi Station》 is another of his masterpieces.

And today’s rainbow brick hunt begins at the Yilan County Social Welfare Building. Notice how this slightly odd-looking structure resembles the Jiaoxi Township Office? After visiting, be sure to walk along the building—specifically the pedestrian overpass on the right side of the photo.


Truth be told, I wasn’t initially keen on taking photos or writing about this spot, so I didn’t capture the middle section of the overpass. Instead, I’ll take you straight to the entrance of Qinghe Bridge. As I walked along what was originally just a footbridge’s side, I spotted this plant-lined pathway—and my heart skipped a beat. This design is brilliant, almost magical in how it transforms the ordinary.


This narrow path clinging to the bridge pier leads to the Rainbow Brick Trail to Yilan’s Brick Kiln. Now, let’s follow Xiao Hu to see just how special and beautiful this route is.


Before entering or moving on, let’s take a look at the bridge’s side. Its makeshift corrugated metal style actually highlights a rare urban clash of aesthetics, sparking curiosity.(Top-left image). Essentially, this side of the bridge is woven from wire mesh, layered with wooden planks and intertwined plants, creating a green tunnel vibe.(Top-right image).








Look left, right, up, down—these five photos give you a sense of the skywalk’s basic design.




It’s not just a bridge; there are thoughtful design elements, like a small resting spot halfway through. This space has two levels: the lower one is a play area for kids.



The middle level holds two “double kayaks” reminiscent of Yilan’s Dongshan River—sorry, I’m not sure of their official name, but you’ll recognize them instantly, and yes, you can actually sit in them to enjoy a mock rowing experience.




From the small platform by the boats, you get a stunning panoramic view of the entire Yilan River, whether viewed through the mesh or up close—it’s a different feel either way.



There’s also an exercise machine on the bridge, letting you work out while admiring Yilan’s scenic beauty (top-left image). The skywalk ends at a small park featuring a winding slide—wonder if that’s part of Huang Shengyuan’s design too (top-right image).

Check out these girls having the time of their lives, embracing their inner child.


The Qinghe Bridge skywalk is just the first half of the rainbow brick quest. Looking back after crossing the bridge makes it feel even more special—mainly because of the building at the end of the bridge: the Yilan Social Welfare Bureau, where our journey began.


Up close, the building doesn’t fully reveal its charm, but viewing it from a distance showcases Architect Huang’s skill. Some say it resembles Howl’s Moving Castle.


Isn’t it beautiful? Honestly, this short trip to Yilan made me love the place even more—not just for the food, but the scenery too. Of course, Architect Huang’s talent is a huge part of it, and so is Xiao Lan Ge’s guidance. That’s why I started with that intro.


Led by Xiao Lan Ge, our group strolled along the riverbank in small clusters, chatting while continuing our unfinished “rainbow brick journey.”


Midway, we descended the river embankment (though apparently going straight ahead works too—you’d just loop around), arriving at this clearly redesigned small canal. The wooden pavilion here is totally my style.


The little canal is kept impeccably clean, and it seems wild fish have been released here—quite touching.


A small bridge with a slight Kyoto vibe pairs beautifully with its reflection.


What puzzles me is that people are washing clothes upstream—won’t that affect the river’s ecosystem or the survival of those wild fish? Still, I love the serene, idyllic atmosphere it creates.


After winding through a few more alleys, you’ll spot the brick kiln’s chimney by the roadside. According to Xiao Lan Ge, this area used to host many brick kilns, but now only this one remains—as a museum-like exhibit.


It was a holiday, but there wasn’t a single tourist in the entire brick kiln complex. It felt a bit lonely. Such a wonderful place really ought to be known by more people.


Hey you—handsome guy, beautiful lady up ahead—the train is coming... Sometimes when you’ve lived in the city for too long, even a little ride like this can wash away all that “urban dust.” Maybe next time I’ll get Brother Blue to organize a group trip and take everyone out to have some fun =)


I wonder if anyone else likes taking photos of train tracks from this angle like I do, but if you ask me why, I couldn’t really give a solid reason.


This photo shows the old brick factory from afar—it might be the only one left. You can more or less see the passage of time frozen on the brick kilns... as well as the prosperity they once had.


These machines were probably preserved on purpose, but I don’t really understand what they were used for. I don’t know much about kiln firing or the brick-making process, and honestly I have zero artistic sense when it comes to buildings. The most I can say is “so pretty” or “so unique.” As for being unique, there is one part of the brick factory’s architecture worth mentioning.


If you look closely, there’s something that looks like the head of a “swallow” at the edge of each roof, and it’s a whole row of them. I asked Brother Blue but didn’t really get an answer.


Isn’t that something special? I’m just guessing, but could it be related to the old belief that having swallows nest under your eaves brings good luck?


Alright, then—this little journey in search of rainbow bricks ends here, beneath the tall chimney of the brick kiln. Thanks to Master Huang Shengyuan for the design, to Brother Blue for guiding us and sharing his knowledge, to the three lovely ladies who came along with me, and of course to all of you readers. I went on this playful little adventure and hope it gave you a laugh. Find a holiday to come chase some rainbow bricks yourselves =)

【Yilan Social Welfare Hall】

Address: No. 95, Tongqing Street, Yilan City


Xiao Hu's Dream-Eating Net
If eating is just about filling your stomach, then “food” would be far too boring～～