[Family Travel]Cool off and have fun at Belle’s Paradise!

Previously, because of Yutou’s baby crawling competition, we visited Belle’s Paradise Banqiao Branch for the first time, and after just one try, we were hooked. Red Bean absolutely loved it and kept asking me when we could go to the City Hall Branch, which is closer to home?

But coincidentally, the City Hall Branch was under renovation recently, so as soon as we learned that the renovation was complete, we decided to take a weekday off and bring Red Bean there to have a great time. We also wanted to give her, who doesn’t have summer vacation from her private preschool, a little break (she was super excited about not having to go to school!). So we showed up bright and early. As soon as we walked in and saw this green bear, we took several photos—it was clear how thrilled she was for the day’s adventure!

The theme of Belle’s City Hall Branch is the Sweet Kingdom, so the entire venue is filled with sweet-themed decorations—so pink and cute. Girls will definitely go wild here, but boys aren’t left out either.

Our first stop was the Sundae Factory, a small maze-like area. It’s actually quite simple to walk through following the path, but kids can make it seem way more complicated—that’s okay, as long as they’re having fun!

Not long after entering, we encountered a craft time session led by a staff member. Different activities are scheduled at various times throughout the day, and you can check their official website for details if you’re interested. We did an origami activity—this month the City Hall Branch has a Japanese theme, so the staff taught the kids how to fold paper into kimono shapes.

Red Bean seemed to be doing pretty well, but actually, her little hands still lacked the precision to align the folds neatly, so mostly mom helped out. Then once it was folded, she just handed it to me without cherishing it much—seriously…
After the craft session ended, Red Bean couldn’t wait to jump into the ball pit area. The ball pit is huge, colorful, and the slides come in different designs, which really attract kids. Red Bean absolutely loves this area—we spent the most time here. (Recommended read:)

This little balance beam is designed to wobble. At first, Red Bean walked very cautiously and was even a bit scared, but after some encouragement, she dared to walk across.

After she finished, she proudly declared herself a little warrior who had successfully conquered the challenge (too much “Fruit Grandma” watched, clearly).

The ball pit has all kinds of dessert-shaped inflatable balloons—super cute and perfect for photos!

Next, we went to the mini supermarket area, which little ones also love. Red Bean has been playing cashier at many recent events. Is playing cashier the most representative way for kids to act like grown-ups? (Service industry workers have it tough…) (Mom gets serious again)

This is the café, filled with lots of sweets—it’s perfect for kids who love cooking.

There’s also a mochi shop. Red Bean found the mochi-making toys really novel and spent quite a while here. First, she started grinding the dough!

Then came the firewood chopping to prepare for baking the mochi—how thorough is that setup?

Line them up on the baking tray.

And there’s even this rotary-style grill—so fun!

Have some tea with your mochi to cut the richness!

Next up is the juice bar. The Banqiao Branch has a fish-catching area, but the City Hall Branch features a juice bar instead—such a creative idea. Second only to the ball pit, this is Red Bean’s second favorite area; she wouldn’t leave even when we called her.

When visiting Belle’s, remember to bring a spare set of clothes. Even with waterproof clothing, you’ll still get soaked. Forgot to bring one? No worries, there’s a hairdryer available nearby.

Approaching lunchtime, let’s eat first. The meals are the same as at the Banqiao Branch—you can check the menu on their official website. But kids usually don’t eat seriously; they just want to grab a bite before running off to play again!

The bathrooms and baby care facilities are the same as at the Banqiao Branch—everything you’d expect is there, and it’s all kept clean and comfortable.

Back to the ball pit again—who could get enough!

A cute mother-daughter photo together (Okay, I admit I was being cheeky—but only Red Bean was actually being playful)

The City Hall Branch has fewer light and sound toys compared to the Banqiao Branch, which has an entire section. Here, there’s only a merry-go-round and this Anpanman car that requires tokens to play.

There’s a big open space in the middle where kids can freely play with toy cars. There are also two popular horses (the kind that made us laugh last time) around.

Of course, we couldn’t miss the dress-up experience. Red Bean took forever choosing, almost picking the Sophia princess dress she wore last time at the Banqiao Branch. Why does she love purple so much? This time, I convinced her to pick pink instead. Then she spotted a microphone and started singing on the spot—thankfully, it was a weekday, or I’d have been in trouble!
(Recommended read:)

Finally, there’s a toy and picture book area more suitable for little babies. It’s a bit of a pity that the City Hall Branch doesn’t have a dedicated space exclusively for babies to play.

After leaving the Belle’s City Hall, we went shopping in Xinyi District and treated Red Bean to the ice cream she had been asking for ages. The little one was overjoyed, and even after finishing it, she kept saying, “I’m really happy today!”

We took photos with the giant Brown Bear doll at LINE Cafe—why did the little girl strike such an awkward pose?

Once Red Bean finished her nap and caught up on sleep, mother and daughter headed home together in high spirits and light steps. I’ve decided that from now on, I should give Red Bean a special break & mom’s solo day once every season.