Step into a homeware-inspired scene at "Sansui," a cozy old-house café in Taichung’s veteran village, where you can while away an afternoon.

▲ The exterior of Sansui Café looks like a scene straight out of a Japanese lifestyle magazine. (Photo provided by netizen wawa7277. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Reported by Chen Hanyin / Compiled by HowToTrip

Taichung’s historic veteran village, Guangfu New Village, is charmingly retro, with its aged red bricks and low-rise houses telling stories of time. Tucked away in a quiet alley is the Japanese-style minimalist café “Sansui さんすい,” run by a dreamer who loves old houses and antiques. He quit his job and moved to Taichung, where he personally created a tea-time space perfect for lounging with cats in the sun.

▲ Every decor item is a thoughtful touch. (Photo provided by netizen maori___, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

This café is housed in a 67-year-old building (built in 1950). Its cement walls, sky-blue paint, wooden window sills, and an old bicycle create a fresh scene reminiscent of Japanese magazines. All the beauty lies in the details—the tables, chairs, cookware, and decor reflect the owner's aesthetic. In addition to hand-brewed coffee, the lemon pound cake and Japanese-style shaved ice are popular items at Sansui.

▲ Handwritten menu and everyday greenery. (Photo from the Sansui さんすい official Facebook page)

▲ Wine-soaked dried fruit pound cake and orange-lemon cheesecake. (Photo from the Sansui さんすい official Facebook page)

The owner, who has a background in architectural design, quit his job and made the bold move from northern Taiwan to Taichung to pursue his dream. The café’s name, Sansui, means “watering” in Japanese. “Watering with care to grow a beautiful potted plant; focusing intently to brew a great cup of coffee.” This is the owner’s philosophy. He says both require patience, and what Sansui offers is not just products but a commitment to a life of quality.

▲ White bean yokan and a relaxing afternoon with matcha. (Photo provided by netizen maori___, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

▲ The lemon pound cake is a signature item at the café. (Photo provided by netizen maori___, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Sansui さんすい
Address: No. 4, Heping Road, Wufeng District, Taichung City
Business hours: Open Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays (subject to updates on the official page)
Official Facebook page:Click here