Exploring Nihonbashi Coredo Muromachi Terrace: A Haven for Taiwan Culture Aficionados

Dive into Taiwanese Treasures: Eslite Spectrum’s Unique Offerings at Coredo Muromachi

Gari: Today, we are here at Coredo Muromachi Terrace, directly connected to Mitsukoshimae Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon and Ginza Lines. I’m not sure if the expression is appropriate, but Muromachi Terrace is so ready.

Celeina (MC): Sounds great.

Gari: It’s absolutely amazing. On the terrace’s expansive roof plaza, there’s a Christmas tree unlike any other. It’s the ‘Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Tree,’ a collaboration with the currently screening movie “Wonka,” which is the sequel to the well-known “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

Celeina: What’s different?

Gari: It smells like chocolate. The pink illumination is cute, and such a photogenic spot.

Takano (MC): It’s so nice! Cute.

Gari: The smell is so delightful that I thought there might be a food stall nearby, but it turns out it’s coming from the Christmas tree. The whole area is truly filled with a sweet smell. Just this alone makes it worth coming to see, but if you go up to the second floor of the building, there’s Eslite Spectrum Nihonbashi, dubbed “cultural wonderland of lifestyle and reading,” from Taiwan. Have you guys been there before?

Takano: I have been to Eslite Spectrum in Taipei, but I haven’t been to the Tokyo store.

Gari: The entire second floor is dedicated to Eslite Spectrum, and it’s incredibly spacious. You can explore a variety of products from different genres, focusing on books but also including goods and food.

Between the bookshelves on both walls, there are tables, displaying various Taiwanese products such as food and miscellaneous items in a delightful and eclectic manner. It becomes a joyful space to explore, offering enjoyment in every direction you look.

Celeina: Sounds fun.

Gari: Encountering unfamiliar food instantly elevates your excitement, doesn’t it? That feeling of curiosity, pondering, “What is this?” The mere mention of “drinking black sugar” in the product description stirs a sense of restlessness. It’s an area brimming with engaging product descriptions.

Takano: What else is there?

Gari: There is a constant display of charming stationery called “Ideal Stationery,” created through collaboration between Taiwanese and Japanese stationery manufacturers, as well as items crafted by up-and-coming creators and recognized artisans. Beyond its visual appeal, the exhibit offers detailed explanations for a more profound appreciation. Moreover, visitors can actively engage in the crafting process at the hands-on glass crafts workshop booth.

Must-Try Taiwanese Delicacies at the Taiwan Government-Approved Restaurant Fu Chin Tree Taiwanese Cuisine Champagne

Gari: And on the same floor, there is the first-ever Japanese branch of the restaurant Fu Chin Tree Taiwanese Cuisine Champagne, which the Taiwanese government has officially recognized as one of the “Top 10 Must-Try Food” selections.

Takano: I have to try then.

Gari: There’s no longer an option not to try it. In the open and spacious interior, there are terrace seats at the back, and they offer the perfect terrace spot with a clear view of the Christmas tree I mentioned earlier.

Celeina: It’s a great location.

Gari: I was surprised, but even on the terrace seats on the second floor, there’s a delightful chocolate smell. It’s a luxurious space where you can enjoy delicious Taiwanese cuisine while constantly experiencing the sweetness of desserts.

Now, let’s ask Hanaya san from Fu Chin Tree Taiwanese Cuisine Champagne. It’s mentioned to be certified by the Taiwanese government, so could you tell us more about the restaurant?

Hanaya: It’s a Taiwanese restaurant based in Taipei, having earned consecutive Michelin one-star ratings.

Gari: You can enjoy Taiwanese cuisine and champagne.

Hanaya: It’s not a combination you would hear often, but you can enjoy the new pairing of Taiwanese cuisine and champagne.

Gari: Can you tell us about the recommended menu?

Hanaya: A must-try at Fu Chin Tree is the spicy stir-fried dish with garlic chives, preserved egg, and minced pork. It’s the most popular menu item at their main branch in Taiwan as well.

Gari: I’ve never heard of it. What kind of menu is it?

Hanaya: It’s a dish with minced pork and a vegetable with a crispy texture, written in Chinese characters as ‘fly’s head’ in Taiwan. It can be enjoyed as a side dish with rice or as a snack with drinks, making it a versatile dish for both drinkers and non-drinkers alike.

Celeina: Sounds delicious.

Gari: Sounds delicious right? And Fu Chin Tree also offers paired drinks to complement both lunch and dinner, right?”

Hanaya: Yes. You can enjoy champagne, white wine, and red wine to accompany the dishes.

Gari: Is there something to enjoy as a course?

Hanaya: Yes. You can start with appetizers and, in the end, pair the recommended stir-fried pork with leek and century egg with rice.

Takano: I would love to try it.

Gari: Muromachi Terrace couldn’t be more ready both outside and inside. Why don’t you visit? That’s it from here and the reporter was Yanagi Gari of Denko Sekka.