The history of growing coffee trees in indigenous areas of Pingtung can be traced back to the period of Japanese rule. It was in 1902 when the visiting government founded the Hengchun Tropical Botanical Gardens (today’s Hengchun Research Center of the Taiwan Forestry Research Institute) and started experimenting with growing coffee. The very first coffee tree in Taiwan was thus planted in Pingtung, after which cultivation continued to spread to other regions in Taiwan up until 1929.
Recent years, there have been shops combining high quality coffee beans with well-preserved buildings, creating an inviting atmosphere and relaxing space with the aroma of freshly brewed beverages for visitors to enjoy. Next time when you’re in Pingtung, make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to sip on a delicious cup of locally brewed coffee!
Tai Wu Elementary School Slate House 泰小石板屋
No. 1, Afulu’an Rd., Taiwu Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
Villagers in Taiwu Township have been growing coffee since the Japanese colonial period. Each ripe coffee cherry is handpicked and roasted locally, suffusing the entire space with the fragrant aroma of freshly ground and brewed coffee. Apart from offering a delightful DIY coffee roasting experience, visitors can also enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the local indigenous people.
Yamato Coffee 大和頓物所
No. 26, Fengming Rd., Zhutian Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
Situated next to the Zhutian (竹田) Railway Station, which was built in 1919, the distinctive Yamato Coffee House is actually a remodeled old rice mill. Incorporating only the finest local ingredients, the coffee and dessert offered mingle harmoniously with the sweet memories of days gone by.
Credit Union Base 恆春信用組合
No. 155, Wenhua Rd., Hengchun Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
A renovated historic bank built in the period of Japanese rule, this popular Hengchun (恆春) attraction provides a multi-functional café, bar and souvenir shop all rolled into one. Visitors to the Credit Union can thus linger in lazy luxury to sip on locally crafted coffee, or enjoy the vibrant Hengchun nightlife with some tipsy cocktail tasting.
Chun-Jo Cafe 春若精品咖啡
No. 6, Tianjin St., Pingtung City, Pingtung County, Taiwan
Nestled inside a well-preserved Japanese-style house located on the quiet Tianjin Street, the Chun-Jo Café offers all the charm and flavor of premium coffee with the meticulous twist of a connoisseur. Boasting a wide range of single origin coffees to choose from, more discerning customers can sample rich brews in true comfort and tranquility.
Shun’s 順順堂
No. 53, Fujian Rd., Pingtung City, Pingtung County, Taiwan
If you’re a fan of reading, antiques and, of course, fine coffee, you can’t afford to pass by this vintage coffee shop. As you savor the rich atmosphere and lingering book-infused aromas, you’ll wish each moment could last forever.
Sanpei Cafe 三平咖啡
No. 86, Yucai Rd., Chaozhou Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
For an unforgettable taste of authentic Japanese culture, look no further than the Sanpei Café. With a Japanese manager that spares no effort to furnish and decorate the establishment according to each season, you will surely find a peaceful favorite corner against a range of stylish backdrops.
Iron Window Grill 窗花手作甜點咖啡
No. 5, Ln. 57, Minsheng Rd., Pingtung City, Pingtung County, Taiwan
This adorable little shop is ideal for those seeking some rustic charm. Beautifully decorated with dried flowers and having no fixed menu, the Iron Window Grill provides not only quality coffee and highly recommended specialties like premium Mariage Frères French tea, but also very pleasant daily surprises in the form of homemade bread and desserts.
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This article is reproduced under the permission of Pingtung County Government.
TNL Editor: Daphne K. Lee (@thenewslensintl)
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