Taichung Retro Day Trip ItineraryStep back into the 80s with photo-ready makeovers and unforgettable experiences

 

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Taichung's Second Market is one of the city's most historic venues, and the perfect starting point for a retro-themed day trip. Beyond its traditional snacks and friendly vendors, the market also hides several vintage clothing venues with a keen eye for unique finds. You can pick out a colorful floral shirt, a retro dress, or a military-style jacket, and instantly feel transported back in time, ready for a journey into old-school elegance. Most of the clothing here is affordably priced and uniquely styled, so you can dress with flair without breaking the bank. We recommend arriving early to explore the market and enjoy a traditional breakfast—think steamed buns, braised pork rice, or turnip cake—to fuel up and set the tone for your vintage outfit. Your journey into old Taichung begins here.

Second Market

• Address: No. 87, Section 2, Sanmin Road, Central District, Taichung City
• Hours: 07:30–15:30, closed Mondays

Once you're dressed in vintage attire, the next step is to complete your old-school transformation at Rong Rong Hair Salon, tucked away in an alley. This salon is steeped in nostalgia, with handwritten price lists on the door, vintage hair dryers and mirrors adorning the walls, and old songs playing in the background, creating an atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. Owner and stylist Rong Rong is skilled at crafting retro looks like Hong Kong-style perms, "ramen" curls, and vintage bangs. She can also adjust your overall proportions to match your outfit, ensuring a natural and story-rich style. Whether you're aiming for a photoshoot-ready look or simply want to enjoy the fun of a makeover, Rong Rong Hair Salon will prepare you for your old Taichung tour with the most retro flair, whether dashing or elegant.

Rong Rong Hair Salon

• Address: No. 46, Pingdeng St, Central District, Taiwan
• Hours: 09:00–19:00, closed Sundays

Once your look is ready, a cool studio shoot is the perfect way to capture the memory. Next, head to Asia Photography, a long-standing Taichung photography venue, to snap a classic photo of your retro style. Asia Photography specializes in vintage studio shoots, with every detail — from the classic red backdrop and old-school lighting rigs to the antique sofas and vintage stereos — transporting you straight back to the 70s and 80s. The photographers are skilled at guiding poses and expressions, making it easy for even photography novices to achieve that nostalgic, cinematic feel. After the shoot, you can choose to have your photos developed as vintage prints, black-and-white paper prints, or even framed in an old-fashioned carrying frame, adding to the full sense of occasion. Whether you're shooting solo, with a group of friends, or as a couple for a Hong Kong-style duo shot, this stop will give your retro day trip tangible, classic, and timeless memories.

Asia Photography

• Address: No. 86, Section 1, Zhonghua Road, Central District, Taichung City
• Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00-21:30, Saturday 11:30-21:00, Sunday closed

After a studio photoshoot, a cool, sweet treat is just what you need. Step into the Fourth Credit Union, an ice cream venue transformed from an old bank building and a sister venue to Taichung's popular dessert brand, Miyahara. The original architectural structure, old vault doors, and soaring atrium are preserved, complemented by heavy terrazzo stairs and vintage brick walls, creating a nostalgic atmosphere everywhere you look. You could easily spend hours just taking photos. The ice cream selection is extensive, from classic fruit sorbets and rich cream cheese ice cream to flaky pineapple cake tarts—every bite is satisfying. Sitting in a former financial institution, enjoying handmade ice cream, feels like traveling through time, experiencing a retro ritual unique to Taichung. It's the sweetest stop on this old-school Taichung day trip.

Taichung Fourth Credit Union

• Address: No. 72, Zhongshan Rd, Central District, Taichung City
• Hours: 10:00–21:00