Guide to Zhongxing Slow Living Cottage (中興慢活小屋), Nantou County

Introduction

Tucked away in the quiet heart of Nantou City, far from the crowded tourist hubs of Sun Moon Lake, Zhongxing Slow Living Cottage lives up to its name: it is a space designed for slowing down, embracing unrushed Taiwanese rural life, and using it as a base to explore the underrated charms of northern Nantou. Ideal for family travelers and slow travel lovers alike, this intimate guesthouse balances home-like comfort with thoughtful, practical amenities for a relaxed stay.

Hotel Overview

Zhongxing Slow Living Cottage is located at No. 65, Xinguang Road, Nantou City, a short 10-minute walk from Nantou’s central commercial district, putting local street food and small shops within easy reach. The guesthouse offers smoke-free family-friendly accommodations, with all rooms fitted with air conditioning, heating, soundproofing, and free Wi-Fi across the entire property. Every room includes tea and coffee making facilities, an electric kettle, refrigerator, and microwave, making it easy to prepare light meals or store local snacks. Rooms feature flat-screen cable TVs, private en-suite bathrooms with either a bathtub or standing shower, hairdryers, and all basic toiletries, plus ample closet space for longer stays. The guesthouse speaks both English and Chinese, making it accessible to international travelers, and guests consistently praise the hearty, home-style breakfast served daily. Note that there is no on-site parking, so drivers will need to use nearby public parking lots.

Nearby Local Attractions

Three standout attractions are all within a 20-minute drive of the cottage:

• Zhongxing New Village: Just 10 minutes away, this former planned government community is Nantou’s beloved cultural heritage spot, with tree-lined lanes, vintage shophouses, independent cafes, and art galleries perfect for lazy afternoon strolls. Don’t miss the local specialty preserved fruit shops here for souvenirs.
• Nantou County Culture Park: A 15-minute drive away, this sprawling green park houses the Nantou County History Museum and hosts regular seasonal cultural festivals, from cherry blossom displays in spring to lantern markets in winter. It’s ideal for picnics and family outings.
• Caotun Dihua Street Old Street: 20 minutes from the cottage, this well-preserved 19th-century old street is packed with traditional snack stalls selling local favorites like crispy oyster omelets and rice cakes, plus handmade craft stores that offer a glimpse into old-school Taiwanese commercial life.

Travel Tips

If you’re driving, book a spot at the nearby Xinguang Road public parking lot in advance during peak weekends and holidays. For getting around without a car, local city buses stop just a 2-minute walk from the guesthouse, with regular service to major attractions. Since Nantou’s after-dining options close earlier than in major Taiwanese cities, pick up snacks or drinks for your room at the nearby convenience store before 9 PM if you plan to have a quiet night in. The guesthouse’s central location also makes it a great launching point for day trips to Sun Moon Lake, just an hour’s drive away, if you want to balance slow city stays with mountain lake exploration.