Written by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, Reported by Chen Guanxin
Although uniquely styled homestays attract throngs of tourists, the minimalist rural trend that has emerged in recent years emphasizes nature and nostalgia, with less excessive decoration or deliberately created luxury, giving homestays a more back-to-basics charm. The "Zhao Ye Cottage," which combines typhoon-style, retro, and rural aesthetics, is surrounded by lush greenery and even offers the chance to see fireflies in May, attracting many visitors seeking an authentic rural experience.
The property is planted with a rich variety of flowers, trees, and plants, perfectly complementing the natural-material buildings. (Photography by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin)
Upon entering the grounds, dense foliage and rows of wooden structures feel like stepping into a time tunnel, back to some unnamed mountain village. It turns out the owner, formerly a landscape designer, aimed not to disrupt the precious mountain scenery or harm the local ecosystem. Not only did they use natural materials like wood for construction, but also recycled resources. The doors and windows were designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, allowing guests to enjoy mountain and water views while reducing the need for electric lighting and air conditioning. The reserved owner, Zhuo Mingbang, smiles and says, "Natural and recycled materials might not make the houses last a hundred years, but at least these buildings can eventually return to nature."
If we’re talking about distinctive homestays, there are countless options across Taiwan in Japanese, British, Mediterranean, or European castle styles. But at Zhao Ye Cottage, which emphasizes typhoon-style design, it would be a shame not to try the suite renovated from an old barn. Stepping into the room, the warm yellow light from the bamboo lampshade in the sleeping area and the indigo-patterned curtains evoke memories of a grandmother’s room, while the lounge area offers a double-sided view of the pool and classic wooden windows... (Text interrupted)
Surrounded by lakes and mountains, relaxing in the living room of the barn homestay feels like returning to rural life decades ago. (Photography by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin)
What was once a grain storage barn has been cleverly transformed into a quaint sleeping space. (Photography by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin)
In addition, Zhao Ye Cottage’s rural style extends to its cuisine. The menu features a semi-self-service "Health Herbal Hot Pot" available year-round, with fresh seasonal vegetables and mushrooms freely available from the garden. Main dishes like Toon Vegetable Noodles and Pearl Vegetable Rolls are developed based on the concept of "balancing five vegetables, five grains, and five fruits according to the Five Elements for health," allowing guests to enjoy the rustic charm of the countryside while nourishing their bodies with seasonal produce, experiencing tranquility and harmony with nature from the inside out.
Zhao Ye Cottage’s signature dish, the "Health Herbal Hot Pot," has a rich broth enhanced with fresh garden vegetables and mushrooms, making it even more delightful. (Photography by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin)
Cooked with natural ingredients like toon leaves, minimal seasoning brings out the true flavors of the ingredients. (Photography by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin)