Countryside Homestay · A Book Wall That Captures Travelers’ Hearts

Reported and photographed by Chen Tzu-yin, Yilan

For a relaxing weekend getaway, staying at a countryside homestay to enjoy the nearby scenery offers a completely different experience. The character of a homestay entirely depends on the owner’s vision, and this book-filled homestay nestled in the rural area of Luodong, Yilan, is sure to win your heart at first sight.


▲ Among the many homestays in Yilan, the book wall at White Horse Garden Homestay makes you want to spend an entire afternoon here. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin)

“Originally, it was quite simple — I just wanted to use books to attract travelers and keep them in Yilan.” This surprisingly delightful book wall came from the straightforward idea of the homestay owner, Li Wang-ching. The homestay, which was recently renovated in May this year, instantly brings joy to guests who may have escaped the hustle and bustle or endured a long journey, as they step through the door and encounter this “thoughtfully designed” book wall. Sunlight streams down from above the book wall, where Li Wang-ching has placed a sofa and table and chairs for guests. In this incredible moment, all worries seem to vanish.


▲ The European-style minimalist architecture, named “White Horse Garden,” was inspired by the homestay owner’s love for travel and the 19th-century “White Horse Hotel” in St. Wolfgang, Austria. (Photo / Provided by White Horse Garden Homestay)

Actually, Li Wang-ching wasn’t the one who built this homestay. At the time, he was thinking about what he could do after retirement when he returned to Yilan. By chance, he had a meal and conversation with his friend Zheng Wen-tang and the original homestay owner, and suddenly came up with the idea of running a homestay. Being a book lover and travel enthusiast, Li Wang-ching teamed up with film director Zheng Wen-tang, and thus the blueprint for this seemingly ordinary yet extraordinary “White Horse Garden Homestay” was born.

White Horse Garden Homestay presents a minimalist European style, and the original owner has a heartwarming little story. Now a grandfather, he built this unique villa because he hoped his little grandson would “like coming to grandpa’s house.” That’s why there’s a long garden at the back of the villa, with fruit trees and chickens, all stemming from this grandfather-grandson bond. Both the homestay owner Li Wang-ching and the original owner share their own expectations for this house, forming a connection. The owner’s backyard garden also became the second reason Li Wang-ching uses to keep guests staying.



▲ %The backyard of the homestay, which is actually a wonderful place for children to play and relax. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin, strong)

 


▲ Autumn scenery in the backyard. (Photo / Provided by White Horse Garden Homestay)



▲ %The interior design of the homestay makes every guest feel instantly at home. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin, strong)

 



▲ %The golden hour is the perfect time to appreciate the charms of the countryside. (Photo / Reporter Chen Tzu-yin, strong)