Dai-Ho Bookstore Introduction
At Chiayi Houchang, an old house bookstore selling tofu, the afternoon sun penetrates through Zhuwen Street, casting golden light on the entrance of "Dao Hu Ce Dian," a Japanese-style old house, where time flows slowly and distantly. The locals refer to Chiayi Houchang as "Beigang Che Tou," a hub where the Taiwan Railway, Alishan Forest Railway, and Sugar Railway once converged and thrived. To deeply explore old Chiayi, this place must be highlighted. Pronounced in Taiwanese as "Dao Hu Ce Dian," it becomes clear that this is a bookstore selling tofu. Initially, the cloth flags hanging on the windows and doors read "We Support Non-GMO," later replaced with one stating "Dou Zhen Xian. Jia Zan E Dou." All soy products at Dao Hu insist on using 100% locally grown soybeans from Taiwan. Not only are they non-GMO, but they also focus on carbon reduction. The handmade salt-brined tofu pairs perfectly with Yunlin's gardenia oil, making it an excellent match. The solid tofu is quite filling. If you're thinking of taking some away, be sure to bring your own container for the tofu. If you want something sweet, they also offer tofu pudding, soy milk, and soy milk tea. The display style in the bookstore section feels like stepping into a friend's house, with different rooms categorically separated, almost devoid of any sales aggression. Just pick up a book and sit down to read—that's life. Photo source: Chiayi City Government Tourism News Division | Photographer: Margot
