Chou Wan-Chen Cake Shop Introduction
During the prosperous era of mining, the Zhou Wanzhen Cake Shop located on Shifen Street thrived, serving as the go-to place for locals for cakes during weddings, funerals, celebrations, or daily consumption. In an era where the average daily wage was only around 70 NT dollars, Zhou Wanzhen could earn thousands of dollars in daily revenue, with many people also buying in bulk to sell. However, as Western pastries entered Taiwan, the traditional cake industry faced significant challenges, and Zhou Wanzhen encountered even greater obstacles due to the decline of the mining industry, which led to a mass outflow of residents from the Pingxi District. The population during its peak was four to five times greater than it is now. Thus, after 1986, Zhou Wanzhen had to gradually transform into a regular convenience store. However, it still sells Pingxi cakes (traditional mooncakes) and golden crispy pastries (offerings for deities). With the development of tourism along the Pingxi Line, Zhou Wanzhen has experienced a resurgence. Young people visiting Pingxi to release sky lanterns also make sure to stop by Zhou Wanzhen to savor traditional pastries. Currently, the shop produces traditional cakes, including 1/4 improved version of big cakes, golden crispy dumplings, curry pastries, mung bean cakes, and碰餅. The aroma of freshly baked goods is the most enticing moment.
