Hitting up a museum and finding its star attraction isn't there? Total bummer, right? But sometimes, the gift shop's creative merch can totally save the day and become an unexpected treasure.
That's exactly what happened to one Japanese netizen visiting Taipei's National Palace Museum. They missed out on seeing the beloved national treasure, the "Jadeite Cabbage," in person. But instead of leaving empty-handed, they found a different way to bring the "cabbage" home – and it unexpectedly blew up on Japanese X!
The netizen shared their disappointment on X, explaining that the Jadeite Cabbage was on loan and not on display during their visit. So, they snagged a "cabbage umbrella" from the museum shop as a souvenir. Little did they know, their post would go viral, with tons of other users instantly wanting to get their hands on one!
One commenter raved, "This umbrella is the most elegant cabbage design ever!" Another hilariously quipped, "Just open it up, and boom – instant temporary Jadeite Cabbage exhibit!"
The post even drew out other Japanese visitors who'd been to the National Palace Museum, sharing their own "hauls." They recalled missing both the "Meat-shaped Stone" and the "Jadeite Cabbage" during their visits but still picked up miniature replicas of both, or even themed ballpoint pens, as keepsakes.
With so many people clamoring to know where to buy the cabbage umbrella, the original poster added a crucial tip: it's not inside the museum's paid exhibition area. You'll find it in a larger shop near the museum entrance, down the escalator from the ticket booth. But act fast – stock looked pretty limited, so if you want one, you better hurry!
And for those wondering about the Jadeite Cabbage's current whereabouts, a helpful netizen chimed in: it's currently on display at the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum. So, if you're planning a visit soon to see the iconic veggie, you'll need to head south!