#Taiwan #Japan #Tokyo #Hsinchu #d design travel

The Unique Cultural Landscape of Hsinchu

The travel guide series "d design travel," created by D&DEPARTMENT PROJECT, is set to release its first special edition focused on Taiwan titled "d design travel HSINCHU" on November 21, 2025. This edition aims to showcase the long-lasting individuality of various regions through a design perspective.

In celebration of this launch, D&DEPARTMENT will host an exclusive event at Shibuya Hikarie's d47 starting November 7, featuring their original menu called "Hsinchu Set Meal." On December 6, a talk show will be held where the editorial team will share insights into the remarkable attractions of Hsinchu and offer a taste of local cuisine through a themed event. This immersive experience seeks to convey the essence of Hsinchu, Taiwan.

The upcoming edition of "d design travel HSINCHU" provides an insightful exploration of this lesser-known cultural city. As the saying goes, while two-nanometer semiconductors may be crafted in Hsinchu, two-meter sidewalks remain a challenge. In this rapidly developing city, traditional customs and beliefs endure, creating a "hybrid" landscape where the artificial and natural coexist.

Hsinchu’s Identity through Local Cuisine

People may not associate Hsinchu with its geographical location, but few Japanese can claim ignorance of its famous rice noodles (beefun). During my visit, I was struck by the ubiquity of rice noodle bags decorating the streets, creating a unique visual narrative that defines Hsinchu. This city, known for its windy conditions, has cultivated a strong culinary identity rooted in its local cuisine, with rice noodles being a comforting food for its residents.
The nostalgia of the traditional handmade bags from "Tong De Cheng Rice Noodle Factory" is an embodiment of Hsinchu's rich culinary heritage. The design, reminiscent of the city when it was still called "Zhuzhen Cheng," feels both romantic and historically significant.

Collaborative Development of the Travel Guide

The editorial approach to creating "d design travel HSINCHU" has been highly participatory, engaging over 50 local residents and travel enthusiasts in a public editorial meeting held in April 2025. Together, they brainstormed locations that capture the spirit of Hsinchu. Following this, the experiences and information were shared in real-time through social media, documenting the entire process of the guide's development.

Moreover, the editor-in-chief spent more than a month between Hsinchu and Japan, visiting over 200 locations within the city. This hands-on approach allows the guide to highlight only the experiences that truly resonate, thus ensuring authenticity.

The narrative of Hsinchu is enriched further through the upcoming event celebrations, especially with the original Hsinchu Set Meal introduced at Shibuya’s d47. Crafted through local food exploration and insights from producers, the meal promises a delightful experience that encapsulates the rich flavors of Hsinchu cuisine.

Contents and Themes of the Guide

The guide isn’t merely a book; it's a holistic experience that includes elements like:

• - Tourism: The guide identifies locations that are quintessential to Hsinchu's identity, like the Hsinchu City God Temple and the Railway Art Village.
• - Dining: Featuring restaurants that focus on local ingredients and exemplary culinary practices, such as the Half-Mu Yard and Monsoon.
• - Shopping: Highlighting places where travelers can purchase unique local souvenirs, such as handmade crafts from local artisans.
• - Cafes: Showcasing spaces run by passionate owners who impart their narratives through their offerings.
• - Accommodations: Recommendations for places that provide a localized experience at a fair price — ideal for those seeking to immerse themselves in Hsinchu’s culture.
• - Local Personalities: Introduction to key figures actively contributing to the cultural scene and revitalization of the township.

The depth of this guide aims to provide readers with a genuine understanding of Hsinchu and its inherent charm, fostering appreciation for local culture.

Event Details

Event: Hsinchu Festival at Shibuya Hikarie
Date: December 6, 2025
Location: d47 Restaurant, Shibuya Hikarie
Program: Featuring a travel show discussing experiences and tastes from Hsinchu, alongside an interactive meal gathering, encouraging community engagement and the exploration of local flavors.

In addition to the Japanese edition, a traditional and English version of "d design travel HSINCHU" is scheduled for a January 2026 release in Taiwan, promoting cross-cultural exchange and a deepened understanding of Hsinchu’s offerings.

About D&DEPARTMENT PROJECT

D&DEPARTMENT PROJECT is a pioneering initiative founded by designer Kenmei Nagaoka in 2000, focused on long-life design. With multiple stores nationwide and international locations, its mission is to rediscover and promote the unique designs of each region, encapsulating and cherishing the essence of local creativity. "d design travel" series, initiated in 2009, illustrates this vision through vibrant storytelling and community collaboration, making it a unique travel guide unlike any other.

For more information, visit D&DEPARTMENT PROJECT.