Houbi, known as the hometown of Taiwan's champion rice, is also one of the venues for the International Orchid Show. The idyllic landscapes, painted by rice fields, and the tranquil, laid-back rural culture have attracted many film crews to shoot here. The 2004 documentary Let It Be propelled Houbi to fame, establishing it as one of Taiwan's most iconic small towns. The drama The Making of an Ordinary Woman further introduced audiences to the enduring charm of Jingliao Old Street, sparking yet another wave of enthusiastic visitors. Both the countryside and the old streets, when infused with culture and art, take on a fresh perspective and evoke a renewed appreciation.
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◦ The History of Houbi
During the Ming-Zheng period, Houbi was a barren land. It wasn't until the Kangxi era that Han settlers began cultivating the area, forming settlements whose interactions eventually gave rise to the name "Houbi." According to the Houbi Township Chronicle, early Houbi Village and Houbo Village were separated by a large stream. Residents had to cross the river on rafts, and an old man with a beard built a hut there to ferry people across as his livelihood. The place became known as "The Bearded Man's Hut" (Húxū Bózǐ de Liáozi), which eventually evolved into "Houbo Liao." When the Japanese arrived, they misunderstood the pronunciation and renamed it "Houbi Liao." After World War II, administrative divisions were reorganized, establishing Houbi Township, which was later upgraded to Houbi District in 2010.
In addition to being an important grain-producing area in the Chianan Plain, Houbi gained widespread attention through a documentary. The local farmers' optimistic attitude in the face of challenges became a source of inspiration and nourishment for many.
◦ Taiwan International Orchid Show
The 2025 Taiwan International Orchid Show is set to open on March 8! Ranked alongside the Japan International Orchid and Flower Show and the World Orchid Conference as one of the "Top Three Orchid Shows in the World," the Taiwan International Orchid Show is not only a significant milestone for Taiwan's orchid industry but also a key driver for tourism development in Houbi.
As someone who isn’t particularly interested in flowers, I originally thought visiting the International Orchid Show would be a quick and uneventful experience. However, stepping into the exhibition area, I was amazed by how impressive it was. Orchids have become deeply intertwined with our lives, playing pivotal roles in festivals, traditions, and even on the global diplomatic stage.
What impressed me the most was the "flag orchids," created using advanced nano-spray dyeing technology. By utilizing capillary action through the leaf veins, the plant-based dye adheres delicately to the petals, producing rich and vibrant hues, as well as subtle and beautiful gradients. It’s no wonder these orchids have made waves on the diplomatic stage and in overseas markets!
◦ Attractions in Houbi
01｜Houbi Train Station
First opened in 1901, Houbi Train Station boasts over a century of history. After enduring the Zhongpu Earthquake, the current station was rebuilt in 1943. With its Japanese-style hip-and-gable roof, weathered cream-colored wooden structure, and nostalgic blue-and-white seating, the station exudes timeless charm. It harmonizes perfectly with the bronze statues in the plaza, inspired by the four protagonists of the documentary Let It Be, showcasing the tranquil and humble spirit of Houbi.
Houbi Train Station No. 77, Houbi, Houbi Dist., Tainan
02｜Houbi Wumiler Community
This rural village, which rose to fame thanks to the documentary Let It Be, has managed to retain its authentic charm without being overly commercialized by the influx of tourism. Walking through the community, some farmhouses and local businesses have thoughtfully created areas to showcase rural life and offer hands-on experiences. Meanwhile, the rest of the community preserves its original calm and serenity. This balance gave me a deeper understanding of the rural way of life and made me appreciate the relaxed, unhurried pace here even more.
Houbi Wumiler Community It is composed of Jingliao, Molin, and Houbu.
03｜Jingliao Old Street
During the Qing Dynasty, Jingliao served as an important relay station on the route to Zhuluo County. Its strategic location as a transportation hub led to a thriving community, with bustling inns, billiard halls, small shops, and markets. However, the advent of the railway and industrial modernization eventually diminished Jingliao's significance, and the village gradually fell into decline. It wasn’t until Let It Be and The Making of an Ordinary Woman featured Jingliao as their setting that the area regained attention. Walking along the old street now feels like stepping into the scenes of these stories, immersing oneself in the warmth and charm of rural life.
Following the popularity of The Making of an Ordinary Woman, iconic locations like the Jin Dexing pharmacy where young Jia-ling’s family lived, and the 24 Solar Terms Path were integrated into a themed “Ordinary Woman Village,” sparking a wave of pilgrimages by fans.
Today, while the crowds and buzz have waned, the question of how to preserve and sustain the stories and energy of the area is the next step the local community is actively working toward.
Jingliao Old Street No. 144, Jingliao, Houbi Dist., Tainan
04｜Jingliao Holy Cross Church
While flying a drone, I was intrigued by a pyramid-shaped structure that appeared on the horizon. Upon closer inspection, I discovered it was a church hidden amidst the fields.
If I found it surprising now, imagine the reactions of residents over 60 years ago. Built in 1960, the Jingliao Holy Cross Church must have seemed remarkably modern and out of place to the farmers of that time. Interestingly, this unique design wasn’t inspired by Egypt’s pyramids but rather by a black-and-white photograph provided by a Catholic brother in Taiwan. The photo depicted a simple grass hut supported by four large bamboo poles, a traditional shelter used by farmers. Architect Böhm drew inspiration from this to create the church’s striking design.
Jingliao Holy Cross Church Opening Hours: Open on Weekends Only No. 294-1, Jingliao, Houbi Dist., Tainan
◦ Restaurants and Snacks in Houbi
01｜Fugui Canteen
In the rural past, harvest season was a time for neighbors to help one another in the fields. The host would prepare a hearty meal to reward the helpers, giving rise to the tradition of the "harvest meal" (gē dào fàn). When visiting Houbi, the grain hub of Taiwan, trying a harvest meal is a must. Each household offers its own unique flavors, but the dishes at Fugui Canteen left such a lasting impression on me that I became a loyal fan after just one taste.
Though the side dishes are simple, they showcase the chef’s exceptional skills. The braised pork belly, tender and flavorful, practically melts in your mouth. Paired with the aromatic braised tofu sheets, this soul-satisfying combination is an absolute must-try!
Fugui Canteen Opening Hours: 1110-1400, closed on Monday and Thursday. No. 7-2, Jingliao, Houbi Dist., Tainan
◦ Flying Over Taiwan
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◦ Other Areas in Tainan
➤ Longci | Longci Light Festival
➤ Beimen | The Oldest Salt Field Site in Taiwan
➤ Guantian | The Land of Water Caltrops with a Touching Story