The newly opened Chocolate Republic offers a five-sensory experience where even beginners can easily join in the fun

By Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported

The beloved 77 Milk Chocolate, a favorite among many born in the 1980s to 2000s, has been a sweet companion through the years. Now, in addition to its enduring delicious taste, the manufacturer has launched a premium chocolate brand called “CHOTTY&COTTY” and established Taiwan’s first “Chocolate Republic,” which offers virtual reality and five-sensory experiences. It is set to open this Saturday (the 14th) in Bade City, Taoyuan County. The venue features multiple facilities such as a cocoa greenhouse, a magic kitchen, and a DIY classroom. Visitors can see the so-called “prima donna” of plants—the cocoa tree—and also learn tips on selecting and making chocolate. During the opening period, discounted tickets are available for partial consumption or DIY course fees, allowing both adults and children to get up close and personal with chocolate.

The Chocolate Republic park includes a splash pool, a children's graffiti wall, and flower fields featuring plants from tropical, temperate, and cold zones. The irregularly shaped museum building is full of childlike charm, resembling an unopened box of chocolates—its surprises are something you’ll never know until you visit in person.

The interior is divided into three floors. The first floor houses a souvenir and dining area, along with a cocoa greenhouse where three extremely particular cocoa trees—requiring very specific humidity and temperature conditions—are planted, giving visitors a glimpse of the “prima donna.” The second floor features a dessert workshop and a chocolate knowledge zone, where you can observe the actual chocolate-making process and learn how to select high-quality chocolate using your five senses: sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste. The knowledge zone also includes a miniature model of a chocolate production line—a must-see if you want to understand how these delightful flavors are created through over ten production steps.

Ever tried the hot cocoa mixed with pepper that the indigenous people used to drink? Want to try making chocolate at home? The third floor’s history and mythology area shares fascinating stories and anecdotes about chocolate, while the magic kitchen lets a virtual reality chef guide you in making delicious chocolate at home. The DIY classroom also invites professionals to lead you in experiencing the joy of making chocolate yourself.