When visiting Daxi, don’t always rush to the overcrowded old streets. Instead, uncover the hidden gem—the former home of the legendary singer Feng Feifei. Located next to Furen Temple on Heping Old Street, this local-known area called “Houtingzi” features a narrow, winding alley where outsiders venture into a maze-like labyrinth. The bustling crowds vanish, and suddenly only the sounds of roosters and barking dogs remain. Strolling through rammed-earth houses and stone-walled courtyards, a single turn brings you face-to-face with the Former Residence of the “Queen of the Hat,” Feng Feifei. A wooden two-wheeled cart, coconut trees in the courtyard, and a century-old well silently record the “Flowing Years” of this beloved icon.
Have you noticed? The architecture here lacks the elegant flair found in the old street; instead, it features humble low-rise buildings brimming with pure, down-to-earth charm. In the prosperous days of Danshuei River cargo transport, many migrant workers built temporary huts near the riverbanks in these areas. Though limited in size, this neighborhood holds a unique blend of structures: land god shrines, stone courtyard platforms, tiled roofs, dovetail wall masonry, “swallow-stopping tiles,” and TR-branded bricks. House sizes and layouts vary entirely to the homeowners' discretion. In “Houtingzi,” no scene is replicated. Each corner reveals a new surprise.
If you wish to hear local stories, visit the Cao Dianwei Small Living Room directly opposite Feng Feifei’s Former Residence. This community-driven information hub operated by Daxi locals allows you to dig deeper and uncover anecdotes absent from travel guides, in addition to serving as a gathering place for residents. Furthermore, it functions as a cultural and creative exhibition space and art workshop. Notably, master designer Xiao Qingyang once collaborated with students from Zhishan High School and local neighbors here to host the “Wood Lover Living Room Space Exhibition,” showcasing immense creative energy hidden in this small alleyway. Welcome to this corner museum to explore and discover treasures together.