A Romantic Encounter with Jimmy Liao: Embrace "Micro Travel" in Yilan

  
▲Start your micro travel in Yilan with a "Jimmy Liao-style" mindset (Photo provided by JimmySpa)

Reported by Chen Tzu-yin / Special Feature

The recently opened "Jimmy Liao Theme Square" brings classic characters from Jimmy Liao's picture books to life in a real-world setting, becoming a new highlight of Yilan tourism and reigniting the desire to "visit Yilan." Why not embark on an art and culture trip to Yilan this week? On the first day, head to Luodong to experience the "Luodong New Forest Recreation Area," which won the top prize at the Taiwan Architecture Awards, and the "Luodong Cultural Factory," which opened last year, bringing a laid-back vibe to the locals. On the second day, a stroll through Jimmy Liao Square perfectly aligns with the unhurried spirit of micro travel.

The "Luodong New Forest Recreation Area" is perfect for a romantic, slow-paced weekend micro travel. Designed by architect Huang Sheng-yuan, the area was originally a comprehensive sports field in Luodong Township. Despite its modern design, it retains elements of the sports field, blending architectural aesthetics with the goal of creating a space that facilitates resident activities, resulting in an environment that harmonizes with the local pace of life.One of its most celebrated features is the runway made of "wooden boardwalks," built over an aquatic pond, allowing residents to enjoy nature while staying active—an enviable setup for the residents of Luodong.Huang Sheng-yuan once said, "I want to create a laid-back town!" His vision earned the favor of the Taiwan Architecture Awards judges, securing the top prize.

The "Luodong Cultural Factory," which opened in the middle of last year, also integrates architectural art into the lives of local residents.It is a highly distinctive building, featuring a 18-meter-high large canopy with a "Sky Gallery" overhead. The second floor has a uniquely long structure and includes an elevated walkway offering scenic views with surprisingly expansive vistas. The architectural space incorporates stacked wood, echoing the glory days of Luodong's once-thriving forestry industry. Various cultural performances and exhibitions can be freely hosted in this space.


▲The 18-meter-high canopy ensures no views are obstructed, embodying the concept of elevating exhibition spaces while keeping the market at ground level (Photo from the Luodong Cultural Factory fan page)

  
▲Left: The elongated second-floor building serves as a unique arts and cultural exhibition space. Right: Its modern design makes it a popular spot for leisurely strolls (Photo from the Luodong Cultural Factory fan page)

When in Luodong, you absolutely must try the deliciousLinchang Meatball Soup,a decades-old shop with a narrow but always crowded space. Visitors to the Linchang area often choose this spot to fill up. Whether you want meatball soup with noodles or rice, it’s only NT$55—a true case of "great value for money."

Yilan is an ideal choice for many Taipei residents looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. For a two-day, one-night trip, stay overnight at the "Cotton Tree Aesthetics Hotel."Located just a 3-minute walk from the bustling "Luodong Night Market," the Cotton Tree Aesthetics Hotel is a stylish, minimalist-designed accommodation.The hotel houses a hidden gem: an authentic Indian restaurant run by an Indian chef, though reservations are required. Alternatively, you can explore the nearby Luodong Night Market for food and drinks.


▲The "Cotton Tree Aesthetics Hotel," just a three-minute walk from the Luodong Night Market, is a top choice for accommodation in Luodong, Yilan (Photo from the official Facebook page of Cotton Tree Aesthetics Hotel)

After a good night’s sleep, depart from the nearby Luodong Station to Yilan Station via a regional train, a 15-minute ride away. Near Yilan Railway Station, there are many old houses. Strolling around these buildings allows you to feel the passage of time and the changes of the eras. The Yilan County Government is dedicated to preserving old buildings and integrating them with installation art to create diverse leisure spaces. Jimmy Liao Square is one of the latest popular attractions. Thisfirst-ever Jimmy Liao-themed square in Taiwan was originally an old dormitory area for the Railway Bureau. After its transformation into Jimmy Liao Square, it became a public leisure and art space, officially opening on June 28. Characters and key elements from Jimmy Liao’s famous picture books such as *Secrets in the Stars*, *Turn Left, Turn Right*, and *The Sound of Colors* are all placed throughout the square. Here, visitors can not only rediscover their inner child but also reconnect with the feeling of "laid-back living."▲Left: The suitcase from *The Sound of Colors* leaps into the real world. Right: The entire square is filled with childlike wonder and fantasy (Photo: Left provided by Yilan County Government, right by JimmySpa)

  
▲Do you ever want to stay in Jimmy Liao’s fairy-tale world and never leave? (Photo provided by netizen Angela)


▲Immersed in Jimmy Liao’s storybook world, could you ever bear to leave? (Photo provided by netizen Angela)

Continuing the nostalgic vibe of the old houses, head next to the"Maibasuo" (Sell-It-Here),whose philosophy is encapsulated in the phrase: "Singing, writing, dancing, drawing, eating, drinking, just sitting around"—a concept that has made this establishment a popular spot over the past two years since its opening.Maibasuo is actually a collaboration between the renowned THE WALL music team and Yilan County’s Cultural Affairs Bureau for "historic site revitalization." In addition to preserving the old building, they’ve created an independent music space for creative expression and crafted an atmosphere that feels "as comfortable as home." Maibasuo exudes a relaxed and casual vibe, making it easy to spend an entire weekend afternoon here.▲Maibasuo retains the original appearance of the old house, transforming it into a space filled with music, art, and intellect (Photo from the Maibasuo fan page)

  
▲Mai Ba Suo preserves the original appearance of the old-style house, transforming it into a space filled with music, art, and intellect. (Photo / From Mai Ba Suo's official fan page)


▲Unscheduled live band performances fill the entire space with soul. (Photo / from Mai Ba Suo's fan page)
 
【Attraction Information】
Luodong New Forest Park
Address: No. 88, Section 1, Chunjing Road, Luodong Township, Yilan County

Luodong Cultural Factory
Address: No. 96, Section 1, Chunjing Road, Luodong Township, Yilan County
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:00–17:00; Saturday and Sunday 9:00–18:00

Linchang Meatball Soup
Address: No. 109, Zhongzheng North Road, Luodong Township, Yilan County
Phone: (03) 955-2736
Business Hours: 7:00–18:00, closed two days a month (irregular schedule)

Cotton Tree Aesthetics Inn
Address: No. 306, Section 3, Zhongshan Road, Luodong Township, Yilan County
Phone: (03) 956-4888

Jimmy Square
Address: No. 1, Guangfu Road, Hemu Li, Yilan City, Yilan County

Mai Ba Suo
Address: No. 38, Kangle Road, Yilan City, Yilan County
Business Hours: 12:00–00:00 Sunday to Thursday; 12:00–02:00 Friday to Saturday

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