Island Call Shop Introduction
In Chiayi's rear station, a bookstore selling tofu is bathed in the afternoon sun that streams through Zhuwen Street, illuminating the traditional Japanese-style entrance of "Daohu Bookstore". Time feels slow and distant here. Locals refer to Chiayi's rear station as "Beigang Che Tou", a once-bustling hub where the Taiwan Railway, Alishan Forest Railway, and Sugar Industry Railway converged. To truly explore old Chiayi, this place is a must-visit. Pronounced in Taiwanese as "Daohu Bookstore", it is immediately clear that this is a tofu-selling bookstore. Initially, a banner hanging from the windows proclaimed "We support non-GMO", which was later replaced with one that reads "Tofu Alliance. Let's Eat Tofu." All the tofu products at Daohu insist on using 100% locally sourced soybeans from Taiwan. Not only is it non-GMO, but it also aims to reduce carbon emissions. Daohu's handmade salted tofu pairs perfectly with Yunlin’s gardenia flower oil, making for a truly satisfying bite. If you wish to take some home, be sure to bring your own container for the tofu. For those looking for something sweet, they also offer tofu pudding, soy milk, and soy milk tea. The layout of the bookstore area feels like stepping into a friend's home, with different rooms uniquely categorized and almost devoid of any aggressive sales tactics; simply picking up a book and sitting down to read feels like everyday life. Image source: Chiayi City Government Tourism Department | Photographer: Margo
