Department of Cultural Affairs

The 2024 Bangka Life Season, themed “Bringing Back the Old Days,” shares the stories of mom-and-pop stores that once filled the markets of various neighborhoods in Wanhua. These stores, integral to the daily lives of Wanhua residents, have seen both prosperity and decline but remain closely tied to the community. 

The series of events kicks off on July 13, featuring themed exhibitions, specialty markets, and more. We invite those who enjoy strolling through historic districts to visit the Longshan Cultural & Creative Base in July and immerse themselves in a nostalgic atmosphere!

Wanhua’s Welcoming Mom-and-Pop Stores Still Open for Business

In Wanhua’s early years of prosperity, hundreds of mom-and-pop stores scattered were throughout the area. Although the number of stores has significantly decreased owing to changes in lifestyles, many stores beloved by local residents continue to serve the community. 

Fuyu Store (福餘號), hidden in Dongsanshui Street Market, and Luobei Store (駱北號), at Zhixing Market, sell dried goods, spices, and other essentials for market customers. Rirong’s Toy & Food Store (日榮玩具食品行) on Juguang Road specializes in old-fashioned candies and snacks for mom-and-pop stores, while PeanuTend in the Ka-lah-a Shopping District (加蚋商圈) has transitioned from selling general groceries to focusing on peanut candy and related products, carving out its own niche. Next to the Taipei Cinema Park, Kuai Kuai (乖乖), which many Taiwanese grew up with, offers a treasure trove of snacks that appeal to young and old, and has recently become a unique symbol of Taiwan.

The Longshan Mom-and-Pop Store: A Journey Back in Time, for a Limited Time Only!

The 2024 Bangka Life | Bringing Back the Old Days exhibition introduces visitors to the mom-and-pop stores of today’s Wanhua, along with store profiles and local shopping routes. The interactive exhibition area allows you to carry a Gaji bag (traditional woven bag) and fill it with items you want to buy, reliving the excitement of browsing and selecting goods in a mom-and-pop store.