Festivals, exhibitions, day trips and what is on this week. 127 dispatches.
May 1, 2026
May 1, 2026
A craft-beer-meets-stock-market concept brings interactive drinking games and Taichung-sourced comfort food to the city's newest dining hotspot.
May 1, 2026
Northern Taichung finally has its biggest mall yet, packed with 500 brands, 50+ restaurants, and unique rooftop glamping experiences.
Apr 1, 2026
Mar 1, 2026
Taichung now has a dedicated hub to help international professionals navigate visas, work permits, housing, and settling into life in Taiwan.
Mar 1, 2026
Eight customizable laksa varieties meet nine noodle options at Vincent Gan's vibrant new Singaporean-Malaysian concept, now expanding across Taichung.
Mar 1, 2026
Smoky meat skewers and fiery whole fish bring Jilin's bold flavors to Taichung in this sprawling, convivial new outpost.
Mar 1, 2026
Sarah Fu's stylish new bar blends craft cocktails, global travels, and comfort food in one intimate Taichung escape.
Feb 1, 2026
A US Air Force legacy meets crispy, twice-fried perfection at this charming new Taichung spot run by a former food truck owner.
Feb 1, 2026
Discover authentic Japanese-style yakiniku with premium chilled beef, top-grade Wagyu, and table-side grilling in an intimate Taichung setting.
Jan 1, 2026
Game, drinks, and skyline views: Taichung's hottest new rooftop spot blends pickleball, cocktails, and community.
Jan 1, 2026
Charcoal-grilled wagyu and fresh seafood shine at this elegant yakiniku spot, where thoughtfully tiered menus make indulgence effortless.
Oct 2, 2023
After a nine-year hiatus, Taiwan’s National Day fireworks show will once again light up Taichung’s night skies, ensuring that the city will be packed with an abundance of exciting events in October, from amazing pyrotechnics to the driving rhythms of rock music and melodies of jazz. Nonstop exciting events: Oct. 7-8 Rock in Taichung─’Fly To…
Aug 1, 2023
Since its inauguration, the Taichung Tourist Bus Route 153-Guguan Line has earned popularity among many travelers. In addition to enjoying must-see mountainous attractions like Shigang, Dongshi and Guguan along its route, you can now also participate in the Romantic Route 3 Art Festival, organized for the second year by the Executive Yuan’s Hakka Affairs Council…
Jun 9, 2023
To provide a peaceful living environment and better quality of life for residents, Taichung City Government initiated a two-month “Quiet and Calm City Project” in mid-April. This includes joint efforts by the Taichung City Government Environmental Protection Bureau, Police Department and Motor Vehicles Office, with each agency carrying out specialized tasks in a collaboration to…
May 5, 2023
Warm spring days are ideal for venturing outside and enjoying a colorful world filled with greenery and blooming flowers. This is also the perfect opportunity to organize a leisurely picnic or go camping with friends to enjoy some special times in nature. Encounter urban greenery, enjoy limitless fun in coastal, mountain areas Mayor Lu Shiow-yen…
Apr 10, 2023
Taichung Central Park was once the site of Shuinan Airport but, after this site’s transformation into a park, is not only a venue for Taichung City Government picnic events and new year’s eve countdowns but also a favorite destination among residents for leisure activities, gatherings and exercise. Its recently-unveiled aviation-themed visitor center is the first…
Mar 9, 2023
The globally-famous World Baseball Classic (WBC) tournament is returning to Taichung this month for the first time in a decade. Pool A preliminaries are scheduled to take place at the city’s Intercontinental Baseball Stadium March 8 to 12 and will include national teams from Taiwan, Panama, Cuba, the Netherlands, Italy and other nations. The hard-fought…
Feb 9, 2023
台中觀光旅遊網 Travel and Tourism Bureau of Taichung City Government Welcoming the Year of the Rabbit, the 2023 Central Taiwan Lantern Festival will take place for nine days from Feb. 4 to 12. This year’s festival is moving to Taichung Central Park in the Shuinan area and its main lantern display will be Taiwan’s largest–a 10-meter-tall…
Nov 1, 2022
Taichung residents and visitors wanting to sample, savor and enjoy the best that this city has to offer will be excited that one of central Taiwan’s longest-running, most popular annual events is returning to Taichung Civic Square on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5-6. Organized by Compass Magazine to showcase the city, the 2022 Compass International…
May 30, 2021
Sponsored by the Taichung City Economic Development Bureau With Covid-19 having an increased, significant impact on Taiwan, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) raised the nation to a Level 3 alert status on May 19. On May 23, Taichung City Mayor Lu Shiow-yen held a press conference to announce relief funding for many businesses affected…
May 30, 2021
Sponsored by the Taichung City Environmental Protection Bureau With the continued spread of Covid-19, Taichung City Government Environmental Protection Bureau recently promoted its “5055 Sterilization Method”, which has earned a positive public response. In cooperation with this effort, village chiefs from Xitun District’s He Chang Village, West District’s An Long Village and Wufeng District’s Wan…
Oct 14, 2020
The sheer variety of restaurants, cafes, teahouses, bars, shops and entertainment found in a constantly changing city like Taichung can be near impossible to capture or encapsulate in a single event. However, over the past 17 years, Compass Magazine’s annual Compass Taichung International Food & Music Festival has worked hard to do just that. Since…
May 24, 2020
Adam Bruce was born in 1993, the year that his father Dereke Bruce founded Finga’s. Now, father, son and the Finga’s staff have relocated this long-running deli and grocery store shop, uniting it with their central kitchen/bakery facility. Like before, there are 45-50 breads (sourdough, whole wheat, rye, como, focaccia, bagels, croissants, etc.); 10-15 pastries…
Feb 24, 2020
If you’re looking for a truly unique central Taiwan destination, how about the chance to learn where your pork comes from at Taiwan’s most modern pork carving factory? Located in Yunlin County and offering total processing transparency, Nextland combines the pork industry with local culture and creativity. Honored with the opportunity to cooperate with Cornell…
Feb 13, 2020
Although true love can’t be replaced by gold and other material things, Valentine’s Day certainly is the time for creative expressions of your affection. Whether it’s giving flowers, enjoying a romantic dinner or seeing a movie together, the important thing is to spend time with your special someone. However, if your favorite restaurant is overbooked…
Feb 6, 2020
This recently-opened cafe/bistro is a pleasant surprise along an old alleyway, with displayed knickknacks and soft music making it a relaxing venue. The shop’s menu, designed by the owner, includes a Mexican Quesadilla (NT$180-250) with four options (cheese, beef, chicken, pulled pork) and is served with tortilla chips, salsa sauce and sour cream, which makes…
Jan 9, 2020
Coming on the heels of the recent Chillies 4 opening (see Nov. Compass), Chillies 5 raises the bar much higher with what is arguably Taiwan’s largest and most attractive Indian dining establishment. Located where SongZhu Road ends at the river near Dakeng Scenic Area, this striking triangular building seats 130 inside—exquisitely decorated with deep colors…
Jan 8, 2020
Three new French owners have taken over, revamped and renamed what used to be Terroir Wine, transforming it into a Mediterranean restaurant and wine shop on the first floor and an upstairs cocktail bar and tasting room named The Chamber Club. Downstairs diners sit at either standard or higher bar-style tables to enjoy an exotic…
Jan 4, 2020
台中市政府新聞局/文．圖提供 楊翰雯/譯 Article and photos courtesy of Taichung City Government Information Bureau Translated by Anna Yang Celebrating the Lantern Festival together The 15th day of the first lunar month is also known as the “little new year” and was a Chinese holiday traditionally celebrated with firecrackers and hand-held lanterns or torches to create a joyful…
Dec 14, 2019
As its name plainly states, this restaurant uses top-grade ingredients and a sincere attitude to create quality cuisine that has over time built up a loyal customer base. Building on this, Good Food has now opened a new branch near Calligraphy Greenway that provides a delightful dining atmosphere. A first-floor take-out area sells daily fresh-made…
Nov 27, 2019
Article and photos courtesy of Taichung City Government Information Bureau Translated by Anna Yang Each year between October and April, the seasonal monsoon winds shift from the southwest to northeast due climatic factors that include off-shore high pressure systems and dense fog coverage. When conditions become almost windless and pollutants become less diffuse, western Taiwan’s…
Nov 18, 2019
Chillies Indian has opened its fourth Taiwan branch with this attractive, spacious venue seating over 70. Just meters from ChongDe Road, the striking venue stands out with a range of Indian imported items–colored glass lamps, bronze Hindu sculptures, Indian art and customized, hand-painted, cushioned wooden furniture. New dishes–added to a simplified menu that makes ordering…
Nov 16, 2019
Helping to address a local dearth of authentic Malaysian eateries, this restaurant was recently opened in cooperation with Shin Yeh Restaurant Group, which has branches in many countries besides Malaysia, thanks to its consistent food quality control and use of authentic Malaysian ingredients. The variety of quality dishes here includes Pappa Hainan Fried Chicken Rice…
Nov 16, 2019
This Polish restaurant was launched this summer by Hong Konger Evie and Bart, a native of Poland who loves to travel. The couple met while on an Australian working holiday and later visited Bart’s Polish hometown. There they learned many traditional dishes in preparation for opening this establishment, with the goal of introducing excellent Polish…
Nov 14, 2019
Article and photos courtesy of Taichung City Government Information Bureau Translated by Anna Yang Since its inaugural event in 2003, the Taichung Jazz Festival has stood apart in Taiwan as a rare, large-scale showcase for jazz music, not to mention a Taichung cultural highlight. With audience numbers increasing by the year, this independent musical event–held…
Sep 15, 2019
Compass Fest 2019 is October 5-6 In many western countries, a “Sweet 16” birthday marks a coming-of-age and new stage in life for a teenager. Although Compass Magazine’s annual international food and music festival arguably reached a certain maturity years ago, the fact that this event has now reached its 16th year is certainly worth…
Sep 2, 2019
Words by Lin Yi-hui Translated by Anna Yang Photographers: Dong Yi; Chen Cheng-guo; Shi Chun-tai Photos provided by Taichung City Taiping District Office As Taiwan’s population continues to age, senior citizens currently make up 14.05% of the nation’s people. With one out of every seven people a senior, it has become critical to strengthen social…
Aug 2, 2019
Words by Li Chiao-chi Translated by Anna Yang Photograph by Shi Chun-tai Photos provided by Taichung City Government By contrast with ordinary park slides and swings, Taichung City is actively promoting all-inclusive playgrounds designed to meet the special needs of kids of all ages. Parents are also able to participate in their children’s play times…
Aug 2, 2019
This popular Taipei spicy hotpot-style noodle eatery has opened its first branch outside of the capital city in a pure-white old house in Taichung’s West District and has been packed since opening. The chef’s recommended handmade “Master Noodles” are chewy and aromatic, pairing very well with the specialty Spicy/Stewed Half Meat and Half Tendon Soup…
Jul 2, 2019
Words by Li Chiao-chi, Yen Yong-chin Translated by Anna Yang Photograph by Li Pei-hsuen Photos provided by Fushoushan Farm, Taichung Travel Net, Chu Yen-chang Taichung is home to a sweeping, diverse terrain that is perfect for family-oriented nature outings. Whether your preference is biking along a greenway, hiking or camping, the natural scenery and settings…
Jul 2, 2019
Brothers Elephants Season Second-Half information now available! Tickets also available for Peng Cheng-min’s retirement party on July 24! July 1 (Mon.): Taichung Intercontinental Stadium Family Seat tickets are available for purchase via 7-11 ibon terminals and Family Mart FamiPort machines from 12:30 p.m.! Sept. 28-29: ‘CHIAllenge’ Peng Cheng-min’s Retirement Party tickets available for Brothers Fans…
Jul 2, 2019
With summer in full swing, life can be reduced to finding ways to avoid the sweltering heat. Although staying home with air-conditioning is certainly one option, many still need to get outside and burn off their energy. Outdoor water parks are a fantastic opportunity to do just that. Whether one is relaxing on a beach…
Jul 2, 2019
After five years in the same spot, this popular American diner-style restaurant has relocated nearby to slightly-larger, two-floor premises on the corner of ZhongMei and ChangChun streets, opposite Zhongmei Park. The first floor has a long bar plus covered open-air tables; the second floor has tables and booths. Twin Cities natives Ben Tucheny and Kyle…
Jun 1, 2019
Words by Li Chiao-Chi Translated by Anna Yang Photos provided by Taichung City Government Cultural Affairs Bureau; Huang Chi-feng; Wu Chi-hsueh Instilling the city with fresh value through cultural and creative initiatives Colorful Taichung overflows with an abundance of resources, including a rich ecology with a diversity of wildlife, cultural attractions and a strong industrial…
May 1, 2019
Words by Li Chiao-Chi Translated by Anna Yang Photos provided by Wu Chih-Hsueh, Business Weekly Making Taichung’s products visible by association (前店: storefront), strengthening industrial techniques and capabilities (後廠: back factory) and creating a rich city with the support of laws and initiatives (自由港: free port) ‘Developing a strong, wonderful Taichung’ is Taichung City Mayor…
May 1, 2019
Affiliated with Taichung’s Hung’s Mansion hotel and Motel Stars, this boutique motel’s eye-catching exterior features a geometrical bird’s nest-shaped design made from steel plates. The 33 guest rooms, each around 66-132 square meters in size, offer five main decor themes–desert, aboriginal, nostalgic, nature, and romantic–and a variety of settings, ranging from a natural-feeling cave to…
Mar 1, 2019
First-time visitors to Taiwan often do not venture to Taichung, let alone know about the rich history of saxophone-making in the city’s Houli District. On weekends, this sleepy town comes alive; from the rustic Green-Corridor bicycle trails to soulful sax melodies drifting through Houli’s streets and corners, visitors will be pleasantly surprised. A few decades…
Mar 1, 2019
This new, 331-square-meter branch of the popular brunch chain introduces a brand-new NT$199 lunch menu that includes a Japanese-style Teriyaki Chicken Set Meal, plus a healthy Mushroom Set Meal. Among other special menu items are Steak Salad (NT$225), served with a plum-flavored specialty sauce, and Chicken Salad (NT$130) with the crispy-outside, soft-inside Linseed Bread. For…
Feb 1, 2019
Just east of the Fongle Sculpture Park, Lazertreks is a great place to spend an hour or two with friends. Providing an hour of laser tag for just NT$350 per person (NT$150 for added hours), this indoor complex offers an inexpensive way to enjoy some unique fun not found anywhere else in Taichung, and “happy…
Feb 1, 2019
Targeted at short and longer term international and local business/corporate guests, this modern 20-floor residence, ideally located next to the Rt. 74 expressway, includes 219 service apartments and 41 hotel rooms. A total of eight upscale room styles range from 38-square-meter rooms up to 92-square-meter suites all decorated in classy light browns and tans and…
Jan 1, 2019
December 12 marked the highly-anticipated grand opening of Mitsui Outlet Park Taichung Port. After two years of construction the outlet mall is finally open to the public, complete with dozens of dining options, a seemingly endless selection of shops, and a Ferris wheel. With approximately 170 stores, including about 19 making their Taiwan debut, the…
Jan 1, 2019
Taiwan’s largest climbing gym has opened its doors in Taichung. Designed by owner and avid climber Jimmy Juan, DaPRO Indoor Climbing has 661 square meters of floor space, with walls towering 16 meters high. It also boasts the only publicly accessible standard speed climbing wall in Taiwan, making it a training ground for Olympic hopefuls…
Jan 1, 2019
Marriott International–the world’s largest hotel chain–has entered the Taichung market with this 131-room hotel, occupying an attractive building on the corner of XiTun and HuanZhong roads. Under the guidance of General Manager Dario Congera, this “select service” four-star residence is the first Fairfield hotel in Taiwan and offers quality accommodations for reasonable prices, including 26-square-meter…
Dec 1, 2018
Together with canoeing and surfing, paddleboarding has recently become a popular watersport in Taiwan. This means that visitors have yet another way–besides bicycling, boating and swimming–to enjoy central Taiwan’s Sun Moon Lake, famed for its beautiful scenery that changes with the four seasons. Paddle boards usually can accommodate a total weight of up to 150…
Dec 1, 2018
Originally from Taichung’s Dakeng Scenic Area, this well-known shop producing handmade sausages and cooked meat products has now opened near Park Lane by CMP mall. All kinds of handmade burgers include a classic cheeseburger, Mexican Style Beef Burger (NT$300) and the popular, slightly-pricier Beef Chuck with Egg and Bread (NT$300), prepared with Iberico Pork and…
Nov 1, 2018
Surrounded by big-screen drama while exploring Taichung Words by Li Jei-yu Photos provided by Lin Wei-kai Translated by Anna Yang Taichung City Government’s recent film development promotions have meant that many movies and TV dramas have been filmed in the city, offering viewers a variety of Taichung perspectives. Where it all started: We grew up…
Nov 1, 2018
A variety of flowers bloom together at three Expo sites Words by Yang Yu-ying Translated by Anna Yang Photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government The Nov. 3 grand opening of the Taichung World Flora Exposition is taking place at three different sites in Houli, Waipu and Fengyuan districts. In addition to the…
Nov 1, 2018
The world’s largest sporting-goods retailer, France-based Decathlon, has opened its second Taichung store in Beitun. With the same spacious 4,000-square-meter retail area as the Nantun branch, the Beitun store has an additional 3,000-square-meter rooftop area with basketball, football, baseball, archery, tennis, badminton and golf facilities. Here customers can check out sports equipment, including shoes and…
Oct 31, 2018
The world-famous Jadeite Cabbage comes to Taichung Words and photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government Translated by Anna Yang The 2018 Taichung World Flora Expo is due to welcome yet another very honored guest–the National Palace Museum’s renowned Jadeite Cabbage. This favorite museum sculpture, as well as a smaller Qing Dynasty jadeite…
Oct 31, 2018
Moncoeur (“my heart” in French) has become a leading Taichung destination for dates and weddings, with its romantic atmosphere announced in the large letters L-O-V-E at the entrance. The NT$200 admission fee gets visitors NT$150 in decorated tokens to be spent in the tree-shaded areas, with destinations including metal cutouts of shadows creating a silhouette…
Oct 31, 2018
This recently-opened bistro at the intersection of DongShan and HanXi East roads has a loft-style interior with a east-meet-west mix of decorations. The Happy Western Platter (NT$200) includes french fries, chicken wings and onion rings with the chef’s specialty honey mustard and tartar sauces. Fish Roe and Scallop Linguine (NT$450) is prepared with fresh Hokkaido…
Sep 30, 2018
Words by Huang Yi-ting Photography provided by Lai Chi-yang Translated by Anna Yang Gaomei Wetland, Tanyasheng Bikeway and other famous Taichung visitor destinations are consistently popular with families and couples. If your knowledge of coastal Taichung is limited to Gaomei Wetland in the south but doesn’t include Da’an in the north, you’re really missing out!
Sep 30, 2018
It was just a year ago that Compass Magazine was touting the fact that the 2017 Compass Taichung International Food & Music Festival was “coming home” to its long-time venue at the Art Museum Parkway. While that event was a big success, organizers will once again moving one of the city’s oldest, and biggest, international…
Sep 30, 2018
This is the second of In House Group’s low-key, yet luxurious, residences in Taichung City with 109 rooms and modern facilities on 12 floors. The first-floor European-style cafe is open from noon to night to room guests and outside diners alike. Other facilities include a swimming pool with bar on the top floor, two bright…
Aug 31, 2018
Words by Hsu Wan-ching and Fan Yen-ping Photography provided by Yeh Lin-chiao Translated by Anna Yang Taichung’s Dasyueshan (Big Snow Mt.) offers a wide variety of natural spectacles and experiences. One of central Taiwan’s best spots for escaping the summer heat, it allows visitors to enjoy hikes and leisurely forest walks. With the arrival…
Aug 31, 2018
Words by Cyu Wen-fong Translated by Candy Chang, Mandy Guo & Anna Yang Photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government In the darkness, a graceful shadow glides through a hillside forest, a fleeting appearance that leaves the impression of beauty on those fortunate to witness it. The leopard cat–one of God’s more…
Aug 31, 2018
For a very long time, the bulk of Taichung’s large-scale retail and entertainment centers have been restricted to Taiwan Boulevard area venues like Shinkong Mitsukoshi, Top City, Tiger City and SOGO malls and department stores. However, that recently changed with the brand-new, seven-floor Showtime cinema and shopping complex on WenXin South Road in Nantun District…
Aug 31, 2018
Techno Bistro and W Restaurant have cooperated to open this new restaurant and bar offering a spot for savoring a mix of creative fusion cuisine and various classy cocktails. For dining, the Salted Egg Potato Mousse with Souse Vide Egg (NT$180) and Baby Squid with Stew Beans (NT$260) are recommended, as they combine local ingredients…
Jul 31, 2018
Perhaps you’ve dreamt of standing on high mountain peak, but worried that your physical condition wouldn’t allow such an achievement. Fear not, for the summit of 3,237-meter Shimen Mountain–one of Taiwan’s so-called “100 Peaks”–near the more famous Hehuan Mountain (Hehuanshan) can be climbed in as little as half an hour. Driving along Taiwan’s highest roadway…
Jul 31, 2018
In keeping with its location facing the Calligraphy Greenway and National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, this brand-new 170-room hotel has a strong artistic vibe, from its playfully-designed roofline to the works of local guest artists (rotating every six months) that greet visitors on every floor. Part of the Royal Hotel Group and the third…
Jun 30, 2018
Words and photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government Translated by Anna Yang Flowing along Fengyuan District’s Huludun Park, Ruanbizai River is the only waterway found within the World Flora Expo’s three main venues. The Fengyuan site has been divided into five areas and Taichung City Government has developed a one-hectare man-made waterfront…
Jun 4, 2018
One block from National Chin-Yi University, this pizzeria serves authentic American-style 19.6- inch pizzas topped with juicy meats and fresh vegetables. During peak times, customers were once willing to wait three hours for Rocky’s pizza delivery. However, now they can enjoy it immediately at this new sit-down location. The menu includes the Supreme (NT$450) with…
Jun 4, 2018
Visitors to the bustling Fengjia Night Market area can swing over to this strikingly-beautiful new restaurant to relax and enjoy western-style fusion cuisine and drinks in a comfortable setting. The modern design and cleverly-illuminated decor truly stand out and the varied menu includes Italian-style risotto and pasta entrees, starters like Salad with Fried Cuttlefish (NT$280)…
Apr 4, 2018
Words and photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government, Translated by Anna Yang It is now the 20th year that Taichung City has organized this large-scale Mazu celebration, which not only preserves cultural traditions but also Mazu’s compassionate practices in our society. The Mazu festival and pilgrimage are among Taiwan’s most popular religious…
Apr 2, 2018
Lacquerware is a daily necessity for the Japanese. Thus, it’s no surprise that they worked during Taiwan’s Japanese colonial era to transmit lacquer-making skills and cultivate lacquer trees in order to promote this craft and its related culture. Starting during this time, Fengyuan became Taiwan’s main center for lacquer art, thanks in part to proximity…
Aug 30, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: Translated by Ruby Lee Captain Peanut / Oh My God! / I Make Music Captain Peanut’s party starts with the first song of this album, “Boppa Nova,¡¨ which mixes a Bossa tempo and chorus. This album features guitar and saxophone and comes with a little flute music. The…
Aug 29, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: Compiled by Li Shya Translated by Cheryl Robbins ” Concealed within tropical rainforest, the ruins and artifacts of the Mayan civilization have created a great sense of awe around the world. Taichung residents and visitors can now share this awe at the Taiwan Museum of Art. Opening on…
Aug 29, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Selena Huang Are you tired of just sleeping in on weekends? Need a change of scenery? Perhaps you should consider a trip to one of Taiwan’s many tourist farms. A return to the basics offers fresh perspectives and makes Monday morning easier to manage. No matter where…
Aug 29, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Chen Ni-ang Translated by Elliot Billings Chien-hua Garden, which opened in April of last year, has recently become a popular tourist attraction. On weekends and holidays, this delightful example of landscape horticulture welcomes droves of sightseers from around the country, bringing excitement to this normally-quiet mountain suburb.
Aug 29, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Ku Chi Translated by Vanessa Wu Nan Chuang Township, in northeastern Miaoli county, is a naturally attractive place that has yet to be polluted and ruined due to its isolated location. Nan Chuang then becomes a great retreat for urban people who desire to get away from…
Aug 29, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Douglas Habecker As part of an ambitious effort to boost Taichung’s dismal public bus services, the city government Department of Transportation has launched a series of free bus routes. This began a few months ago with three routes: Route 1-Taichung Kang Road (weekends/holidays, every 30 minutes between 9…
Jun 28, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Josephine Lin Translated by Rebecca Jeng How long has it been since you’ve been to Taipei? Thanks to its rapid growth, chances are that it has changed a lot since your last visit. As a result, there’s no better time to head north and experience the excitement…
Jun 27, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Priscilla Chen, Douglas Habecker and Karen Schmitt, translated by Sharon Yang and Cheryl Robbins It’s blazing hot, stifling and so humid you feel like you’re coated in sticky sugar. In other words, it’s just another normal summer in Taiwan. The best solution for those in dire need…
Jun 21, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Uvia ChangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins fM Restaurant & Bar was recently opened by two young, dynamic Americans, Fred Harold and Mike Armstrong, who also happen to be brothers. This restaurant’s name, fM, comes from the first letter of their first names, the f being lower case to…
Jun 21, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Douglas Habecker Discovery World is Taiwan’s newest theme park and certainly one of its biggest. Connected to the Mala Bay water park, this impressive attraction is about twice as large and follows a similar approach, providing world-class, foreign-designed entertainment facilities almost identical to those found at any…
Jun 21, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Rachel Chiou Pingtung Chen Family Pig’s Knuckle is the fourth-largest food company in Taiwan. The pig’s knuckle is made using Chinese medicine for a unique flavor. With this eatery’s opening, this specialty dish of the Pingtung area is now available in Taichung. The original owner of this…
Jun 21, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Rachel Chiou Jia Nan Garden Restaurant was recently opened by the Eden Foundation, which provides assistance to the disabled and those trying to rebuild their lives after the devastating September 21, 1999 earthquake. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. The management committee of the Productivity…
May 21, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: By Rachel Chiou and Tammy Huang Translated by Jacques van Wersch The first and strongest impression one gets while strolling Lukang’s streets is that of tranquility. But ask any old-timer about Lukang’s past and you will be told about the hustle and bustle of what once was one…
May 17, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: This small, classy-looking hotel is ideally located on Taichung Kang Road, just meters from the Chao Ma bus stop and a couple blocks from the freeway interchange. Formerly known as Advance Hotel, this place underwent a complete renovation that has left it with 30 spacious rooms–the Deluxe Single…
Apr 14, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Translated by Cheryl Robbins and Rachel Chiou Coldplay/Parachutes/EMI Although “Parachutes” was released back in July, 2000, it is still receiving popular and critical acclaim, even winning this year’s Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album. That’s probably because this is a rock album, but not too hard and not…
Apr 14, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: By Karen Brownbear Translated by Elliot Billings Produced by Sahara Studio and released on Fredmosa Records in early 2001, Metal Treasure Attic was the first volume in a series devoted to the compilation of tracks by the stalwarts of Taiwan’s metal scene as well as some up-and-coming bands…
Mar 5, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: by Courtney Donovan Smith Translated by Sharon Yang In March, thriving artist collective ArtseeHouse will move its show north to the HuaShan Artist Community in Taipei. Featuring musical performances, paintings, photography, calligraphy and more by local and foreign artists, it will provide an exciting cross-section of forms, styles…
Mar 5, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Chen Ni-Ang Translated by Matt Godsey and Annie Chen Beyond a doubt, Da Ken is one of the most important recreational and tourist areas in Taichung. This scenic rural area, with its rolling forested hills and hiking trails, has become a regular destination for many residents and…
Mar 3, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: E-Power is an unmistakable presence, with its creative architecture and large dome, located just behind Tiger City mall. Scheduled to soft-open on March 8, this large, 3,000-ping complex is the first of the kind on the island, joining four separate establishments–a disco, bar and restaurant, cafe, and members-only…
Mar 3, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: Translated by Elliot Billings and Cheryl Robbins Creed/Weathered/Wind-up Records Creed’s long-anticipated third album recently hit the stands and stays true to its hard-core rock foundations with an increased intensity. From start to finish, listeners will enjoy a range of styles, from hard pounding rock licks at the beginning…
Feb 11, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 By Tammy Huang Translated by Elliot Bilings Looking for an oasis outside of the bustling city? Take Taichung Kang Road up the hill in the direction of Wu Chi. After passing Tunghai University, turn right onto Dung Da (Tung Ta) Road. Then, follow Du Huei Yuan (Tu Hui Yuan)…
Feb 7, 2002
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 In a worldwide first, this international chain of cinema complexes has simultaneously opened at two locations, inside of Taichung’s two malls. Both complexes seat a total of about 3,000, with eight screens in Tiger City and 10 in Taichung Central. High-quality seating and sound–together with an all-American snack…
Dec 23, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: This new store is the first Taichung outlet for a successful island chain of all-natural, organic bakeries. Through glass windows, customers can watch freshly-baked goods being prepared with organic ingredients, sans any sort of chemicals or preservatives. There are all sorts of breads, including loaves, scones (NT$36), muffins…
Oct 21, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: by Cheryl Robbins The level of enjoyment of Chinese tea is said to depend upon a number of factors such as the type of tea, the quality of the water used to brew the tea, the skill of the person brewing the tea, the surroundings, the people you…
Oct 3, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: Tea Drops/Zhang Wei-liang/Wind This release by Wind Records follows on the heels of a growing fad in Taiwan of combining traditional Chinese instrumental music with the Chinese tea ceremony. (See this month’s “Culture Corner” for details.) Chinese flute master Zhang Wei-liang has put tea to music. He chose…
Sep 30, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2001 Cheryl Robbins Long before the first Chinese settlers arrived on these shores, Taiwan was the exclusive domain of the Aborigines. Despite this fact, there is little public knowledge of where these earliest settlers themselves came from. As it turns out, Taiwan’s Aborigines–with nine recognized tribes today–are considered part…
Sep 25, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2001 Chen Ni-Ang The Taichung Winery must be somewhere near the top of the list when it comes to little-known tourist attractions in the city. However, this interesting plant, together with its well-planned tourist facilities and museum, make it well-worth a visit. Taichung Winery was originally located in an…
Aug 19, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2001 Cheryl Robbins With the coming of summer, thoughts turn toward ocean breezes, sandy beaches and getting away from it all, making this a good time to explore the coastal areas around Taichung. A one- or two- hour drive will take you to some scenic and fun spots, most…
Aug 19, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2001 Rachel Chiou Taichung residents no doubt have noticed the many renewal projects that are taking place or that have been completed. For example, last month’s cover story described the many recent and ongoing improvements to the downtown district. In that area, Electronics Street has been converted into a…
Jul 18, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jul. 2001 Douglas Habecker Once upon a time, not very long ago, there was no Taichung Kang Road commercial district, no redevelopment zones, no thriving Peitun, Nantun or Hsitun districts and certainly no ‘commercial circles’ around Chung Yo, Sogo or Mitsukoshi department stores, which did not exist. Taichung and all…
Jun 16, 2001
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jun. 2001 Annie Liou In 1927, master potter Lin Chiang-sung arrived in the small town of Shui-li in Nantou. He found this area to be a good place to practice his art, as there was plenty of quality clay and timber for heating the kilns. He built a workshop and…
Sep 28, 2000
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2000 Douglas Habecker Needless to say, it isn’t every day that a very large book store literally sails into town. However, that will be the case on September 6, when the MV Doulos docks at Taichung Port for a one-month visit. The port call by one of the world’s…
Sep 26, 2000
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2000 Cheryl Robbins A new special exhibit taking place at the National Museum of Natural Science sets out to make you rethink your concepts about dinosaurs. Five hundred and eighty-three objects, including rare and valuable fossils, reproductions and reconstructed models and skeletons, are used to tackle some of the…
Jul 19, 2000
From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 2000 Douglas Habecker Although Taichung is well-known around the island for its label of Taiwan’s “culture city”, that moniker has taken a beating in recent years as residents and outsiders have frequently joked that it is anything but cultural. However, there are reasons to hope that Taichung will once…
Jul 14, 2000
From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 2000: Step off the propeller plane at the Makung airport and the sense of space is overwhelming. Partly it is the low flat grassy landscape, unencumbered with the natural and unnatural obstructions that crowd Taiwan proper. No mountains loom in the distance, no factories, no skyscrapers. But mostly it…
Mar 12, 2000
by Cheryl Robbins From our archives, Compass Magazine, March 2000. In Taiwan, folk medicine incorporates beliefs of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism and shamanism in diagnosing and treating illnesses. Unlike conventional (Western) and traditional Chinese medicine, folk medicine does not take into account physical symptoms. Instead, illness is thought to be due to spiritual or supernatural influences.
Jan 8, 2000
by Cheryl Robbins From our archives, Compass Magazine, January 2000. One of the world’s most admired women, Dr. Jane Goodall, recently visited Taichung’s National Museum of Natural Science to deliver a message which she entitled “Reasons for Hope.” Goodall gave her audience four reasons for having in hope: the human brain, the resilience of nature…
Nov 8, 1999
From our archives, Compass Magazine, November 1999. In an idealized existence, a people and country which had just suffered through some natural calamity could simply continue on with life from the point at which it was interrupted. Soon, everything would return to normal and everyone would move forward towards bigger and better things for themselves.
Oct 8, 1999
By Douglas Habecker From our archives, Compass Magazine, October 1999. The small island of Taiwan was created long ago by the collision between the earth’s Eurasion and Philippine Sea plates, which pushed upwards as they came together. As the people of central Taiwan were so terribly reminded of at 1:47 a.m. on September 21, the…
Sep 1, 1999
By Cheryl Robbins & Dr. Yen Hsin-fu From our archives, Compass Magazine, September 1999. The long-awaited opening of the Botanical Garden of the National Museum of Natural Science took place on July 23, 1999 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and speeches by such dignitaries as the Minister of Education Yang Chau-hsiang, Taichung Mayor Chang Wen-ying…
Jul 1, 1999
By Douglas Habecker From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 1999. Mention a World Trade Center and most people will think of the monolithic twin towers in lower Manhattan, or perhaps the sprawling, sand-colored complex in Taipei. However, there are probably a good number of visitors and even residents who do not know about Taichung’s own…
Dec 10, 1998
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 1998: by Nick Capaiuolo As I walked onto the grounds of the Chai Hsing estate, a pack of hostile dogs approached me. The surly mutts edged uncomfortably near while barking hysterically and their owner did nothing to call them off. Perhaps, as far as he was concerned, I was…
Surrounded by burger eateries, Bun's UP focuses instead on New England Bun sandwiches, served in a browned, crispy hotdog-style bun.
By day, a whimsical shaved-ice shop brimming with Japanese charm; by night, a laid-back bar seamlessly blending two contrasting personalities into a storybook hideaway.
Indonesian co-owners Nita and American Chris bring authentic Sulawesi cuisine to a charming new eatery in Central District.
Indonesian native Mariah and her Taiwanese husband offer authentic Sundanese cuisine in a cozy eatery facing the Luchuan canal.
French-Canadian bistro relocates to new location behind SOGO Department Store with chef-owner Matt Bronsil's signature dishes.
Yumaowu Supermarket President Hsieh Ming-da's expression of hope that everyone could enjoy a great cup of coffee during the lunar new year inspired longtime friend Chiu Tung-liang to plan JK Cafe in under a month.
Rt. 333 buses make airport travel faster, more convenient for travelers and residents
A cozy Breton-inspired crêperie hidden in a rooftop corner, transporting visitors to owner Charlotte Dubois' home region in Brittany, France.
A stylish cafe and coffee brand named after a family legacy, offering high-end roasts and modern minimalist design in Taiwan.