77 Chocolate Republic Introduction
At the Chocolate Republic located in Bade, the first sight resembles a chocolate that has been split open, oozing rich chocolate sauce. This uniquely designed building is made up of a large number of glass elements and was specially constructed by the team from the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium in Pingtung, incorporating green energy and environmental concepts. It uses solar power, rainwater recycling systems, and abundant natural light through glass to reduce electricity consumption for environmental benefits. It was awarded the Golden Quality Award in Architecture in 2012. Entering the Chocolate Republic, visitors can explore the flavors of chocolate they have grown up with and gain a true understanding of its ingredients, health benefits, and how to choose good chocolate. Here, one can unlock the secrets of cocoa, learn about its history, cultivation environment, and related knowledge. The entire museum is divided into indoor and outdoor areas, each featuring rich exhibits. Inside the museum, real cocoa trees are planted. Cocoa trees are actually quite delicate plants that are very particular about environmental temperature and humidity. Modeled after small farms in West Africa, the cocoa greenhouse employs a mixed cultivation approach, allowing visitors to experience the growing environment. The average temperature in the greenhouse must be maintained between 25~28°C, with humidity levels of 80~90%. Only under such stringent conditions can cocoa trees produce high-quality cocoa beans. Additionally, professional cocoa farmers are invited to conduct health checks on the cocoa trees. Visitors can see cocoa flowers and the cocoa fruits growing on the trees, which will certainly overturn common misconceptions about cocoa trees. The outdoor area of the museum features a children's graffiti wall, a tropical flower area, a temperate and cold region plant section, and a water play area. After playing in the water, visitors can use vouchers at the nearby Pizza container shop for takeout drinks and light meals. Furthermore, visitors should not miss the practical DIY classroom, where they can follow the steps of dessert teachers to create unique shaped chocolates, allowing families, friends, and couples to create exclusive cocoa memories.
