CULTURE

Taiwan is renowned for its fascinating blend of traditional and modern culture. To showcase the nation’s history and cultural diversity, museums have been established across Taiwan, including the National Palace Museum, National Taiwan Museum, National Museum of History, National Museum of Prehistory, National Museum of Taiwan History, National Museum of Taiwan Literature and National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts. Taiwan also has performance venues nationwide, including the National Theater and Concert Hall, National Taichung Theater, National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying) and Taiwan Traditional Theatre Center. Such high-quality facilities have made Taiwan a center for the arts in Asia, hosting events like Taiwan International Festival of Arts. Traditional architecture abounds, not only in the country’s magnificent monuments such as temples and official residences, but also in the many old structures that have been revitalized for use as community centers, cafes, stores and other public spaces. In fact, many aspects of traditional Chinese arts, crafts and customs are better preserved in Taiwan than anywhere else. For example, Taiwan is one of the few places still using traditional Chinese characters, and calligraphy competitions are always popular events.

Traditional tenets of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism continue to be well represented in everything from temple celebrations and literature to the visual and performing arts. In addition, visitors can learn about the heritages of the country’s Hakka-and Taigi-speaking peoples, as well as the 16 indigenous tribes. Taiwan also shares its cultural riches throughout the world via programs supported by the cultural divisions of representative offices overseas.

At the same time, Taiwan’s larger cities are thriving metropolises that offer 24/7 entertainment options. There are highly regarded dance troupes, as well as a vibrant music scene, which is hardly surprising as Taiwan is the world capital of Mandopop, or Mandarin pop music. Recently opened, Taipei Music Center and Kaohsiung Music Center have both become major performance venues. The local television and film sector has seen a resurgence in recent years, while the country’s booming cultural and creative industries are evident in the many designer stores, markets and exhibitions that are growing in number every year.

From literary arts and folk festivals to the lively atmosphere of night markets, Taiwan’s traditions are closely intertwined with everyday life, adding to a thriving culture in which the past gives vitality and depth to the present.