The first directly operated store of the small village brand has grandly opened at Yisi Space in Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, Taipei, marking a new chapter in the local revitalization of Taitung. Founded by Chen Ren-ding after ten years of effort, the brand brings non-toxic herbs from the tranquil valley of Taitung's Taiyuan, adhering to the principle of no chemical fertilizers and pesticides, promoting biodiversity and sustainable development. Every corner of the store exudes the pure fragrance of Taitung's land, reflecting the brand's deep affection for the land and culture.
On the opening day, distinguished guests including Dr. Wu Jingji from the Center for Innovation and Creativity at National Chengchi University, Director Li Zhengjun of the Taitung Branch of the Rural Soil and Water Conservation Bureau, and Deputy Magistrate Wang Zhihui of Taitung County Government attended to witness the development of the small village brand. Herbs have played a vital role in human life since ancient times, from alleviating illnesses to soothing emotions, with their healing effects widely recognized. Today, herbs are not only used as household remedies and culinary spices in Europe and America but also imbued with new significance in the land of Taitung.
Herbs are healing, and local revitalization integrates into daily life. The small village's herb garden showcases a vibrant ecological balance environment. The brand creates a harmonious atmosphere with gentle colors and watercolor touches, depicting the beautiful coexistence of humans and nature. The exhibition design features a lush herb garden backdrop, with local wildlife freely roaming among the herbs, symbolizing the symbiotic relationship between the brand and the land. The main visual shows a girl surrounded by herbs, immersing visitors in this beautiful nature and experiencing the healing power of herbs. The establishment of the first directly operated store not only brings an entire themed experience area but also thoughtfully sets up an herb plant area to understand the origins behind the fragrances. (Photo / Sourced from the official website of the small village)
The products of the small village brand come not only from non-toxic herb fields but also through collaboration with community elders, bringing health and joy to every customer. The opening display includes themed experience areas and a herb plant area, allowing visitors to connect with nature and understand the origins behind the fragrances. The store's design and product display integrate this fragrance from Taitung into daily life, allowing people to feel the gifts of nature and the healing power of herbs. Since 1951, the small village has been cultivating citronella in Taitung's Taiyuan Valley, becoming an important economic crop locally. In 2012, the small village returned to establish a community development association, promoting rural regeneration and elder care programs. In 2017, the brand further integrated East Coast resources to establish "Rongren Co., Ltd." to promote its own brand products. In 2024, the small village's herb industry case was showcased at the 60th session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), representing Taiwan's local revitalization efforts.
The small village brand has successfully brought Taitung's herb industry to the international stage, injecting new vitality into the local economy with its commitment to natural symbiosis. Everyone is welcome to visit the Songshan store to explore the pure fragrance from Taitung, feel the healing power of herbs, and experience the brand's deep commitment to nature.