南鯨似山x大正浪漫餐廳（最後點餐時間：18：40） 勝利星村成功區，中山路台灣銀行斜對面—屏東火車站步行8分鐘

In the very heart of Pingtung, you'll find a remarkable place — Victory Star Village (Chengkung area). This historic settlement, which once served as military housing, has been transformed today into a vibrant cultural cluster. Here, history comes to life as traditional architecture from the Japanese period blends harmoniously with modern creative spaces.

Victory Star Village (Chenggong Area). Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

One of the main gems of this district is the unique cafe "南鯨似山" (Shengli Whale), designed in the style of Taisho Romanism. Stepping across the threshold feels like a leap back in time to the early 20th century. Authentic wooden interiors, the soft light of stained-glass lamps, vintage gramophones, and elegant painted windows create the atmosphere of a classic Japanese tea house from that era.

This project in Taiwan has become a symbol of careful restoration. The name of the establishment, located on Nanjing Road, plays on its address and the shape of the island, which resembles a whale. It is more than just a place for lunch; it is a true living history museum, where every interior detail is meticulously thought out to provide guests with an unforgettable aesthetic experience.

For those planning a visit to this atmospheric spot, it's helpful to have the contact information of the establishment that has become the heart of the district. While it is part of a larger historical complex, the specific cafe has its own details.

You can check reviews in advance or contact the staff for further details. Below is the essential contact information:

A visit to this place is primarily a sensory experience. The main rule here is to slow down. Before entering the cafe's main hall, guests must remove their shoes, which immediately sets a homely and respectful tone characteristic of traditional Japanese houses. Be sure to take time to explore the details: every corner here is a ready-made backdrop for colorful photos.

The culinary program deserves special attention. You can try dishes inspired by Japanese classics: dark chocolate black curry, delicate Napolitan pasta, or stewed pork rice (donburi), with a recipe that harks back to the Muromachi period. For dessert, it's worth ordering the famous Showa-style hard pudding, which boasts a uniquely creamy texture.

Don't miss the chance to try the legendary ice cream floats, which were incredibly popular at the beginning of the last century. For example, the "青鞜" cocktail with orange soda or the "蒲鳧" blueberry mix not only refresh but also look like small works of art. This is an ideal spot for those who appreciate aesthetics in food and culture in the details.

Getting to this cultural space in Pingtung is quite simple thanks to its convenient location. The main landmark is the historic Shengli Xingcun (Victory Star Village) district, and the establishment itself is located at: 43 Nanjing Road. The place is easy to find as it is situated directly across from the Bank of Taiwan branch on Zhongshan Road.

For travelers arriving by public transport, the most convenient option is the train. From Pingtung Railway Station, the village is just an 8-minute walk away. If you prefer comfort, a taxi from the station or central parts of the city will take you to your destination in just a few minutes.

Drivers will also find it hassle-free, as there are parking zones provided in the area. For precise navigation, you can use the GPS coordinates: 22.6736375° N, 120.4858827° E. The district's infrastructure is perfectly integrated into the urban environment, making a visit to this attraction pleasant and accessible.

The history of this location is inextricably linked to the period of Japanese influence in Taiwan. The Shengli Xingcun district was originally built as a military settlement for Japanese officers. Today, these restored buildings serve as a reminder of past architectural traditions, having been transformed into a unique cultural space where the heritage of the Japanese era is carefully preserved.

Special attention is given here to the Taisho era (1912–1926) — a time when Japan experienced a cultural boom, actively absorbing Western influences. It was a period of "romanticism," where traditional Eastern forms blended with European decor. It is this spirit that has been recreated in the local cafe’s interiors, where every detail — from the stained glass to the furniture — matches the aesthetics of a century ago.

The origin of the district's main establishment name, "南鯨似山", is quite interesting. It doesn't just refer to the address on Nanjing Road but also carries deep symbolism. The word "whale" was chosen for the name because the silhouette of the island of Taiwan, when seen from a bird's-eye view, resembles this majestic marine mammal.

Even the menu carries historical value. For example, the ice cream sodas popular here were first introduced in Japan by the famous Shiseido pharmacy at the beginning of the 20th century, becoming a symbol of modernity and luxury at the time. A visit to the village allows you not just to see old walls, but literally to "taste" history.

To fully appreciate the atmosphere of Victory Star Village and enjoy your visit to the themed cafe, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours in your schedule. This will be enough time for a leisurely look at the architecture and to immerse yourself in the historical context.

Keep in mind that the site is very popular on weekends and holidays, so there may be queues to enter the venues. Additional time might be needed to wait for your order and, of course, for a photo session, as the interiors and decorative details are a magnet for photographers and aesthetic lovers.

When planning your visit to Victory Star Village and the "南鯨似山" cafe, it's important to take note of the specific operating schedule. The establishment is open to guests from Thursday to Monday. Please note that Tuesday and Wednesday are rest days when the complex is closed to visitors.

Standard opening hours are from 12:00 PM to 7:30 PM. However, please keep in mind that the last order for the kitchen is accepted until 6:40 PM. Since the schedule may change depending on holidays or special events, we recommend checking the official website or Instagram page before your visit.

A stroll through the Chengkung area and Victory Star Village is just a part of what this hospitable city has to offer. The surrounding area is rich with small but curious spots that help you dive deeper into local life and find something interesting for every family member.

If you feel like changing the scenery after your historical journey, check out the numerous specialty shops and themed centers within a couple of kilometers. Below is a list of attractions located nearby: