New walking and dining spot in Liu Chuan: Limited-edition Italian pineapple ice cream from Osaka

▲ The ice cream comes in three flavors—vanilla, matcha, and chocolate—and is topped with a sprinkling of dried berries and macarons for a charming presentation. (Photo/IG user)ttt22331Provided by IG user. Please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

Reported by reporter Zhu Xiaoyuan

After two years of renovation and beautification by the Taichung City Water Resources Bureau, the once murky and foul-smelling Liu Chuan Canal has transformed into a sparkling new attraction, complete with limited-time artistic light displays. The area not only draws large crowds of visitors but has also boosted the local economy, giving rise to a variety of new food options. One of the newest additions is“Liu Chuan Ya”—a small shop nestled in the alleys near the Taichung Literature Museum that radiates a strong Japanese atmosphere. Its white signboard features a cute pineapple bread illustration, and nearby, a two-story-tall painted wall catches the eye of passersby.

▲ The shop’s interior is also filled with cozy Japanese-style decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. (Photo/IG user)bb0614,carol820124Provided by IG user. Please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

The breads displayed in the wooden display case are nothing short of exquisite. The shop prides itself on using high-quality ingredients such as Torikoshi flour, Hoshino yeast, French butter, and imported salt from Italy and France. The owner explained that although using well-known brands increases costs, it ensures the creation of safe and delicious products that customers can trust.

▲ Besides pineapple bread, the salt croissant with its delightful sweet-and-salty flavor from fleur de sel is another popular item at Liu Chuan Ya. (Photo/IG user)carol820124Provided by IG user. Please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

The owner also explained,the reason for focusing on making pineapple bread is because he once stumbled upon a small bakery run by an elderly lady in the streets of Osaka, Japan. The shop sold only pineapple bread, and out of curiosity, he bought one to try—and was amazed by how delicious it was. He memorized its taste and texture, and after returning to Taiwan, spent a month experimenting with different flours before achieving a similar flavor.

▲ The shop’s pineapple bread closely resembles the one he tasted in Osaka, evoking a sense of nostalgia and delight with every bite. (Photo/IG user)life.food.you,kfhmcbs331Provided by IG user. Please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

Another popular item is the Italian pineapple ice cream with salt croissant—a warm, crispy croissant shell wrapped around creamy Italian ice cream, topped with a slice of macaron. The rich aroma wafts through the air as you hold it in your hand, and the contrast between the cold ice cream and warm pastry is addictive. Next time you take a stroll along the Liu Chuan River, why not treat yourself to this delightful afternoon dessert?

Liu Chuan Ya
Address: No. 10-1, Lane 25, Zili Street, West District, Taichung City
Phone: 0903 203 445
Business hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00–19:00