Jin Chang Li Xingang Candy

Review

Xingang candy is the signature product of Xingang Township, and Jin Chang Li is the old shop on Xinmin Road named most often; inside, it calls itself the original founder of the treat. According to travel reports, the business dates back to the Japanese colonial era, and a first-prize gold medal certificate awarded to founder Lu Qi-tou in the fourth year of Taisho hangs on the wall. The house runs deep, with a traditional single-storey front and a Japanese-style timber upper floor at the back, and it enshrines the Tiger God for which Xingang is known.

The signature is the original Xingang candy nicknamed mouse candy. Reports say maltose and peanut brittle are kneaded together and cut into pieces shaped like little mice, giving a soft, chewy texture with a clear peanut aroma. There are also banana, longan, grape, plum and black sesame versions, plus traditional almond crisp, sesame peanut brittle and green pea crisp. You can buy single packs or choose flavours for a retro gift box, and the square black tin is popular with collectors.

Most visitors love the old wooden cabinets and nostalgic feel, and say a box bought after praying to Mazu is the most meaningful souvenir from Xingang. Others mention cats wandering freely, friendly explanations from staff and a price list in several languages. On the negative side, some received candy that felt hard and lacked aroma, as if stored too long, and a few met indifferent staff. Quality may vary by batch, so ask about the production date.

Opening hours differ slightly between sources, roughly 8 a.m. to between 9 and 10 p.m. daily with no fixed closing day reported; check before you go. The shop sits on Xinmin Road beside Fengtian Temple, so you can walk between the temple and the old street. Parking is available nearby, but festival weekends bring heavy crowds. Visitors note it is mainly cash and takeaway only. The candy-cutting workshop must be booked in advance and is fun for children.

It suits travellers visiting Fengtian Temple who want a traditional souvenir, as well as anyone who enjoys old houses and old-fashioned sweets. First-timers can start with the original mouse candy and add one or two fruit flavours to compare; for older relatives, the retro box or tin makes a good gift. Other veteran candy shops line the same street, so you can buy from several and compare.