SunnyHills (Taipei Store)
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About
SunnyHills transformed the pineapple cake industry by using authentic, tangy 'indigenous' pineapples rather than the sweeter winter melon filler. The Taipei store, located in the quiet Minsheng Community, offers a unique sensory experience: upon entering, every guest is invited to sit at a long wooden table for a complimentary piece of pineapple cake and a cup of hot Oolong tea. the atmosphere is warm, minimalist, and hospitable, feeling more like a private home than a retail shop. Expert recommendation: The signature pineapple cake with its buttery, shortbread-like crust is a must, but their apple cakes made with Japanese Kouyu apples are equally divine. Pro tip: There is no pressure to buy, but you almost certainly will. It’s a 15-minute walk from the nearest MRT (Nanjing Sanmin), so a taxi or bus is recommended. It is the gold standard for premium edible souvenirs.
Highlights
- Free pineapple cake and tea
- Minimalist Japanese-style boutique
- Premium earthy ingredients
- Minsheng community charm
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Fujin Tree 355
Fujin Tree 355 is the centerpiece of the ultra-trendy Fujin Street neighborhood. It is a 'select shop' and cafe that perfectly encapsulates the 'Taipei Slow Life' movement. The space is filled with natural light, green plants, and a curated selection of Japanese and Taiwanese designer goods. The atmosphere is airy, tranquil, and effortlessly stylish. The sensory experience is defined by the sound of jazz and the smell of premium hand-drip coffee. Expert recommendation: Spend a lazy afternoon here with a latte and browse their unique collection of ceramics and apparel. Pro tip: The entire Fujin Street area is worth exploring on foot; it’s one of the few places in Taipei that feels like a quiet European suburb. Visit their sister restaurant, Fujin Tree Taiwanese Cuisine & Champagne, just down the street for a Michelin-starred dinner.
Chia Te Bakery
Established in 1975, Chia Te is a multi-award-winning bakery and a household name in Taiwan. Unlike the minimalist SunnyHills, Chia Te offers a vast variety of traditional pastries, with their pineapple and cranberry cakes being the absolute stars. The atmosphere is bustling and industrious, with staff constantly replenishing shelves as tourists and locals buy in bulk. The sensory experience is defined by the sweet, buttery aroma of fresh baking that wafts onto the sidewalk. Expert recommendation: The Cranberry Pineapple Cake is their unique masterpiece, providing a perfect tart balance to the sweet filling. Pro tip: Expect a queue outside the shop at almost any time of day, especially before major holidays. They have an efficient system for packing boxes for international travel. If you want to avoid the main line, many 7-Eleven stores in Taipei carry a limited selection of their cakes.
Songshan Cultural and Creative Park
Housed in a former tobacco factory built in the 1930s, this park is a prime example of 'industrial chic' repurposing. The original Japanese-style architecture, including the barracks and the beautiful central garden, has been preserved to house design studios, galleries, and boutique shops. The atmosphere is artistic, quiet, and sophisticated, serving as a hub for Taiwan’s modern creative industry. The sensory experience is one of historic textures meeting sleek modern design, surrounded by a peaceful lily pond. Expert recommendation: Visit the 'Eslite Spectrum' building within the park for a curated selection of Taiwanese crafts and a high-end food court. Pro tip: Check the official website for rotating international design exhibitions. The park is a great escape from the nearby luxury malls of Xinyi and is perfect for afternoon strolls and photography.
Eslite Spectrum Songyan
Housed in a stunning modern building within the Songshan Cultural Park, Eslite Spectrum Songyan is a 'lifestyle department store' that blends high-end retail with traditional craftsmanship. The store features multiple floors dedicated to Taiwanese design brands, DIY workshops (including glassblowing and pottery), and a world-class bookstore. The atmosphere is sophisticated, intellectual, and creative, reflecting Taipei’s modern aesthetic. The sensory experience is one of refined design, the smell of premium tea, and the tactile joy of handmade goods. Expert recommendation: Visit the basement food court for high-quality local fusion cuisine and artisan bakeries. Pro tip: The Eslite cinema here often shows independent and award-winning international films that aren't available in larger theaters. It is one of the best places to buy unique, high-quality 'Made in Taiwan' gifts.
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