Wandering around Yuli Town: Food Adventure and Local Customs
Yuli is a pearl in eastern Taiwan. Although this town is not big, it is full of strong local color and warm human touch. When I stroll through the streets and alleys here, I feel the extraordinary in the ordinary. The purpose of this trip was clear - to eat. The snacks in Yuli have long been famous, and my two major goals are Qiaotou stinky tofu and Yuli, both of which are not to be missed.
👍Qiaotou stinky tofu: a classic snack that challenges your taste buds
When you come to Yuli, you must not miss the local Qiaotou stinky tofu. This shop is located in the center of the town, and there is always a long queue of people waiting under its simple sign. You can smell the unique aroma of stinky tofu from a distance, which makes people love and fear it.
I ordered a plate of fried stinky tofu. The freshly fried stinky tofu was golden and crispy, with a crispy outer skin and tender inside. Paired with the store’s special sauce, the sour, sweet, salty and fragrant taste instantly burst in my mouth. What’s special is that their kimchi has a crisp and refreshing taste, which just neutralizes the greasiness of the stinky tofu. After taking a bite, the strong stench instantly turns into a charming aftertaste, making people unable to help but eat one bite after another. The taste of this stinky tofu is so addictive.
🚩Yu Nei: Unpretentious deliciousness
In addition to stinky tofu, Yuli’s most famous product is the local specialty Yuli. Walking into a seemingly inconspicuous shop, the furnishings inside are simple, but full of nostalgic atmosphere. I ordered a bowl of the signature Yu Nei (Japanese soup). While I was waiting, the aroma that filled my nose had already made me salivate.
The essence of Yuli lies in its chewy handmade noodles, paired with a simple yet flavorful soup base. After taking the first bite, you can clearly feel the chewy texture of the noodles, and each noodle is very chewy. The soup is light and not greasy, yet has a rich layering. Topped with some pork slices and green onions, the whole bowl of noodles may seem simple, but you can’t stop eating it once you start. This simple delicacy is the charm of jade.
📍The charm of a small town: the interweaving of human feelings and scenery
In addition to the delicious food, the scenery of Yuli itself is also unforgettable. The small towns here are simple and unpretentious, surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery and fresh air, making people feel extremely relaxed. Walking on the streets of the small town, you can see friendly locals greeting you warmly everywhere, as if everything is so slow and beautiful.
Whether strolling in the old streets or walking into an old-fashioned shop, every step seems to be a dialogue with the past of this town. Here, time seems to slow down, giving people enough space to appreciate all the subtle beauty.
🎉Conclusion: Yuli, a place worth savoring
Although Yuli Town does not have the prosperity of a big city nor overly commercialized attractions, it is precisely this simplicity and plainness that gives it an irreplaceable charm. The food here not only satisfies the taste buds, but also brings spiritual satisfaction. And when I leave here, the memories I found in the stinky tofu and jade at Qiaotou will always remain deeply in my heart.
If you are also looking for a journey where you can slow down and savor the local culture and food, Yuli will definitely be your ideal destination. I look forward to my next visit. I believe there are more stories worth exploring in this small town.
🔴Transportation strategy: You can get there by train, with many departures
🟠Must-visit attractions: Black Bear Conservation Center, Hualien-Taitung Valley, Antong Hot Spring
🟢Recommended hotel: Shanlin Shanlin Youth Cultural Hotel
🟡Must-eat food: Qiaotou stinky tofu, Yuneili
🔵Shopping Guide: Yokan
#Yuli Tour #Food Tour #Famous Stinky Tofu #Delicious Yuli #Common People's Food #Leisure Time #Worthy to Visit Again