Across from the two big department stores on Taiwan Blvd, you will see a stainless steel sign reading “教師新村”(Teachers’ Village)。Welcome to Xing Lin road, with a new structure of a pineapple fountain and giant ants on the tiles, this is the world between modern and ancient.
The whole community was built in 1969, it was a model set by the Teachers Union of Taiwan. It offered the teachers in Taichung a convenient place to stay. Word on the street is that its name might have come from a Confucian story. Turn right from the busiest street in Taichung, and you’ll see a street, and many alleys, lined with 50-year-old buildings. Some are still used by the old teachers, while others have been turned into charming new businesses.
These old houses have been given new lives and purpose by young and creative artists. “If”art studio has a modern design with an iron grey frame. “WoDihouse Cafe”is full of the owner’s memories of living here. Turn left on the first alley and visit “HauHo Design”with a countryside lovely style decor. Back on Xing-Lin Road, an art exhibition place called “Chu Jun”will open your eyes and pique your interest. Across from “Chu Jun”, there’s a handmade accessories studio with colourful and clever crafts. Turn right on the second alley, “Daily Deli”will is serving up delectable homemade Japanese cuisine. Oh, and don't forget to check out the open-bar cafe “The Porch”, you might bump into a few cats hanging out, the staff help take care of the local strays.
New ideas, energy and innovation have made this historical street alive and vibrant again. When you pass by, stop in and take a leisurely stroll along Xing-Lin Road and be fascinated by the wonders of bygone days mingling with the inspiration of today and tomorrow.
