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The first shop on Jinshan Old Street that exclusively sells “ma‑lan” (麻粩) is A Yu Ma‑lan. It has stood in Jinshan for over 20 years. From a young child who helped her mother with ma‑lan to the current owner, A Yu’s mother Guo Liyun, it began as a way to supplement the family income. After mastering the craft, she turned the once‑solely‑offered ceremonial treats—originally meant to be offered to deities—into everyday snacks. She then added a variety of flavors, breaking away from the basic versions that used only peanuts and sesame. The result became a renowned souvenir in the Jinshan area. Even former New Taipei City Mayor Zhou Ximei and city elder Zhu Lilun are regular customers, and it is now one of the city’s official welcome gifts. In its early days the ma‑lan were larger, but they have since been refined into smaller, bite‑size shapes that young people love. They’re packed with a sweet, comforting flavor in every bite.