Travel Guide to 仲明居陶藝坊住宿加早餐旅館 (Jhongmingju Pottery B&B), Chiayi County

Introduction

Nestled in the rolling green hills of Fanlu Township, a quiet rural corner of Chiayi County, 仲明居陶藝坊住宿加早餐旅館 (Jhongmingju Pottery B&B) is far more than just a place to rest your head. This charming ceramics-focused bed and breakfast blends warm Taiwanese hospitality with hands-on creative experiences, making it the perfect base for travelers looking to escape the bustle of Taiwan’s cities and connect with the county’s rich countryside culture. Whether you’re a pottery enthusiast, a family seeking a slow weekend getaway, or an outdoor lover exploring Alishan’s lower slopes, this family-run gem delivers a authentic, memorable stay.

Hotel Overview

Located at No. 19-1, Longmei, Gongxing Village, Fanlu Township, Chiayi County, the B&B is tailored for relaxed, low-key travel. All accommodations include non-smoking rooms and spacious family options, each with a private en-suite bathroom for comfort. Public areas across the property offer free WiFi, and complimentary private parking is available for guests who drive, with a simple advance reservation required. For those arriving without a car, paid airport shuttle and local car rental services can be arranged directly through the front desk, while the on-site staff offer personalized private check-in/out and local travel advice to tailor your itinerary.

Outside, guests can unwind on the sun-drenched terrace or wander the property’s lush garden, while evening entertainment and guided hiking trails let you make the most of the surrounding countryside. A small on-site convenience store stocks basic snacks and travel essentials, so you never have to make an unnecessary trip into town. What sets this B&B apart, of course, is its namesake pottery workshop, where guests can try their hand at throwing clay and creating their own ceramic keepsakes to take home.

Nearby Local Attractions

Three standout attractions are all within a 30-minute drive of the B&B:

• Fenqi Lake Old Street: Just 15 minutes away, this preserved 19th-century logging town street is dotted with traditional wooden shopfronts, family-run tea houses, and street vendors selling iconic Chiayi snacks like turkey rice and taro balls. It’s the perfect place to stop for a leisurely breakfast or afternoon wander, with plenty of photo opportunities along its tree-lined lanes.
• Ruili Waterfall: A 25-minute drive into the hills brings you to this hidden 30-meter cascade, surrounded by dense subtropical forest. A short, easy hiking trail leads to the viewing platform, where you can cool off in the mist and listen to the sound of the water echoing through the valley.
• Alishan Forest Railway Fenqihu Station: For many visitors, a ride on the historic narrow-gauge Alishan Forest Railway is a bucket-list experience. This charming old station, just 10 minutes from the B&B, is the starting point for scenic rides up into the Alishan mountains, letting you soak up sweeping forest views without the crowds of the main station further up the slope.

Travel Tips

The B&B’s staff only speak Chinese, so it’s helpful to have a translation app downloaded before you arrive if you don’t speak Mandarin. Book your parking spot at least three days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons like cherry blossom bloom (March to April) and autumn foliage (November to December). If you’re interested in trying a pottery class, ask the front desk to reserve a spot when you book your stay—classes fill up quickly on weekends. Finally, bring layers and sturdy walking shoes if you plan to hike the nearby trails; mountain temperatures drop quickly in the evening, even in summer. For anyone craving an authentic