I just want to unwind here this afternoon—a hidden café in Yunlin that's closest to nature!

▲ The Japanese-style café “Aotu Café” in Douliu, Yunlin.

Reported and photographed by Cai Wenjun, Yunlin

In recent years, Taiwan has seen a growing trend of revitalizing old buildings, with many vintage Japanese structures being restored and transformed into hotels or cafés, offering travelers a chance to enjoy a relaxing time. “Aotu Café,” located within the Wenzhong Street Cultural and Creative Cluster in Douliu, Yunlin, is one such café that emphasizes relaxation for both body and mind. With its vast green spaces and open-air dining area, visitors can’t help but sit quietly and simply let their minds drift.

▲ Aotu Café owner Zhang Jiayuan (right).

The owner of Aotu Café, Zhang Jiayuan, is a native of Douliu, Yunlin. His reason for returning home to open a café wasn’t driven by a lifelong dream or grand ambitions—it was simply to take care of his family. “My parents are getting older and need someone to look after them, so I came back. It’s as simple as that.”

▲ % and the coffee shop has different styles in various areas.

Why name the café “Aotu”? Zhang Jiayuan explained that while the individual characters for “凹” (concave) and “凸” (convex) may represent imperfection on their own, when combined, they achieve perfect balance and complementarity, leading to harmony. “I hope this space allows diners to connect with nature and understand how to live in harmony with it.”

▲ % and the café offers a view of the park and a harmonious blend of coffee and food.

For food, the café mainly serves American-style brunch, burgers, fresh juices, and coffee. There are no strict time restrictions, so guests can choose to dine indoors or in the open-air space. Surrounded by large green areas at the front and back, along with a gentle breeze, the relaxing atmosphere makes it one of Yunlin’s most nature-close urban hideaways.

Aotu Café
Address: No. 12, Lane 9, Wenzhong Street, Douliu City, Yunlin County