One Challenge for Taiwan to Link Local and International Tourism
The State of Puli: Challenges of Aging and Declining Population
The town of Puli, like many cities in the countryside, faces problems of an aging population and a low birthrate. The proportion of the elderly population in Puli Town has reached 16.69%, and the number of tourist arrivals has continuously declined, along with a decrease in the number of young people. Industrial and information technology infrastructure lag behind much of the urban areas, weakening Puli Town’s position in urban development.
The Challenge of International Tourism: Creating a New “Tourism Capital of Taiwan
In order to create “Taiwan’s new tourism capital” and revitalize its vitality, Puli Mayor Hsu Shu-hua constantly seeks advice from professionals and the private sector for solutions. Through increased international tourism investment, she hopes to elevate Nantou’s tourism from a “regional to an international” level. More importantly, this effort would encourage many “one-time tourists” to explore the local area more deeply and establish connections with local residents, breaking through old boundaries and drawing back returning tourists who enjoy visiting Nantou time and time again.
Riyuecho Shopping Mall” Project: A New Tourism Landmark
The newest landmark to be added to the region will be a collaboration between the private and public sectors, with the main goal of not only attracting tourists but also boosting investment in the region. Puli’s new international tourist landmark, the “Riyuecho Shopping Mall,” will introduce more than 1 billion Taiwan dollars in investment, creating an area of 13,000 square meters at the hub of the Ailan Interchange exit of the National Sixth Water-Shalian Expressway, leading to the Sun Moon Lake Line Scenic Area.
Partnership with Tsutaya: Lifestyle Proposal to Revitalize the Community
One of the major partners in this development is the internationally renowned bookstore group, Tsutaya, which will be the main anchor in this development project. The company’s philosophy is rooted in the strength of its “Lifestyle proposal,” which aligns with the vision of Mayor Hsu Shu-hua for building a new Nantou that is livable for all ages.
Area Attractions: Creative Market, Most Beautiful Gas Station, and Vertical Community
The development will be primarily divided into three major areas, including the “Creative Market,” which will feature at least 68 shops specializing in gourmet food and creative experiences. Taiwan’s most beautiful gas station will be located adjacent to the mall, providing electric vehicle charging stations and parking for incoming visitors. Lastly, Kamiyama Maemachi will serve as the main building where the Tsutaya bookstore will be located. The first and second floors will feature beverage brands, specialty retail, and a vertical micro-community intertwined with multiple viewing platforms. It is interesting to note that this is the first time the Japanese bookstore has decided to leave the major city to expand into regional markets as part of a major revitalization initiative. The entire shopping mall is expected to be completed and grandly opened in early 2024, and city officials and the community hope that creativity and new life will be injected into this declining region.
Special thanks to Ed Lee, the talented author from Taiwan, for his insightful and well-researched work on this article. His dedication to showcasing the revitalization efforts of Puli and his passion for highlighting the cultural and economic significance of Taiwan are truly appreciated.
