The steamers are popular because foods prepared in them will have a slight, but noticeable aroma from the wood.
"There used to be three stores lined up here next to each other, but we're the only one left," Lin Huang-yi said. He then quickly declined a chance at self-flattery when he said their products weren't necessarily better than those at other stores. "Maybe we've survived this long because we own this real estate so we don't have to pay rent. If we had to pay rent, I don't think we'd still be around either."
But the tubs and steamers are clearly crafted by experienced hands, and the store's inclusion on Taipei sight-seeing tours, as well as numerous appearances in Japanese media, attest to its status high on the list of the city's remaining traditional craftsmen.
Fame has so far sustained the business, but when asked if the store would continue into the fourth generation, Lin Huang-yi was unsure. "I don't know. It's not out yet," he said.
Lin Tian Tong Store is located at 108 Zhongshan N Rd, Sec 1, Taipei (
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