One-second trip to Japan: Tainan’s old government residence turned cultural hub offers beautiful yukata to wear

▲ Cooling House is a hidden gem in Tainan, giving visitors the feel of Japan without going abroad. (Photo/IG)@r820801Provided, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Reported by reporter Cao Yuehua

Come to Tainan to “cool off” as the weather heats up. Opened in“Cooling House”in September 2016, it was once one of the dormitory buildings for the Tainan Prefectural Agricultural Experiment Station during the Japanese colonial period. Later, it was managed by the Dream Realization Care Association,which preserved the original paired wooden structure and infused it with a cultural and creative vibe. The site also offers experiences like tea ceremony and wearing yukata, making visitors feel as if they’re in Japan without leaving the country.When simple architecture meets lush green lawns, it becomes a tranquil corner in the bustling city — and a hidden gem for many locals.

▲ Cooling House in Tainan offers tea ceremony experiences and allows picnics in outdoor areas. (Photo/Courtesy of Cooling House, same below.)

Located in East District, Tainan, in front of the Gold Hoarding Pavilion, Cooling House was originally a Type D official residence of the Tainan Prefectural Agricultural Experiment Station and is now designated as a municipal heritage site. Of the original dormitory complex, only five buildings remain after years of wear and tear: the station chief’s residence, two Type C junior official residences, and two Type D junior official residences.

▲ Simple Japanese-style architecture paired with green grass creates a relaxing vibe.

After the Dream Realization Care Association in Tainan obtained a three-year management right, it began renovating the official residences, officially opening to the public on September 4 last year.The goal was to create a new leisure spot for residents to cool off,hence the name “Cooling House.” As visitors walk from the busy streets into the alley, they are instantly cut off from the city noise — no traffic jams, no crowds, just a moment of peace. Sitting on the lawn with a breeze on your face is truly a delightful experience.

▲ Visitors can wear yukata and take photos freely within the venue. (Photo/IG)@aileenie.cProvided, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

At Cooling House, besides admiring classic Japanese-style architecture, you can also buy cultural and creative products, enjoy light meals, and even try on a “yukata.” Whether you’re male or female, young or old,the rental fee is NT$200 for half an hour and NT$250 for one hour. Renting for two people comes with a free drawstring bag.In addition, the venue has set up a tea ceremony space where visitors can learn about the tea ritual up close and even enjoy tea in a Japanese-style building. There’s also an outdoor picnic area where guests can relax freely on the grass. The operator said they plan to introduce guided tours in the future to help visitors learn more about the site’s history.

▲ Yukata rental is available for all genders and ages. (Photo/IG)@a_zuzu1204Provided, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Friends who want to experience the retro charm of Japanese-style official residences should definitely visit Cooling House. Leave your daily worries behind, let history and culture enrich your soul, and enjoy a moment of tranquility.

Cooling House
Address: No. 18, Lane 21, Fudong Street, East District, Tainan City
Phone: 0909999625
Business hours: 10:30–18:00, closed every Wednesday

▲ This year’s“Friends’ Picnic Day”The lineup is even more impressive this time around. Don't forget to head to Huashan Central Park of Culture and Arts on May 6th (Saturday) to enjoy some live music and dancing.