GUIDE TO TAIWAN NATIONAL CENTER FOR TRADITIONAL ARTS

Why Visit The National Center for Traditional Arts in Taiwan?

The National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA) is a vibrant hub for preserving, promoting, and performing traditional Taiwanese arts and crafts.

We stopped there for a visit during our Road Trip around Taiwan. The National Center for Traditional Arts is located on the beautiful East Coast in Yilan County.

We were really happy we visited this place as the center offers a unique blend of cultural education, artistic performances, and hands-on experiences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the NCTA.

READ: 20 BEST THINGS TO SEE ON TAIWAN’S EAST COAST

TAIWAN NATIONAL CENTER FOR TRADITIONAL ARTS

Overview of The National Center for Traditional Arts

The National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA) in Taiwan is a significant cultural institution dedicated to preserving, promoting, and revitalizing the rich heritage of traditional Taiwanese arts and crafts.

Established in 2002, the center plays a crucial role in sustaining the cultural legacy of Taiwan and serves as a bridge between the past and the present.

1. Establishment and Purpose of The National Center for Traditional Arts in Taiwan

The center was established with the goal of preserving Taiwan’s traditional arts, which were at risk of being lost amidst rapid modernization and cultural shifts.
It was initiated by the Taiwanese government as a part of broader efforts to safeguard and promote the island’s cultural heritage.

2. Location and Significance

Situated in Yilan County: The NCTA is located in Yilan County on the East Coast, an area known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. This location was chosen to provide a serene and inspiring environment for both artists and visitors.
Cultural Hub: The center serves as a cultural hub, attracting artists, students, scholars, and tourists interested in traditional Taiwanese culture.

3. Architectural Design

Traditional Architecture: The design of the center reflects traditional Taiwanese architectural styles. This not only creates an authentic ambiance but also educates visitors about traditional building techniques and aesthetics. We loved it!

4. Useful Information about The National Center for Traditional Arts

The NCTA is open every day from 9:00 until 18:00.
Official Website
Exact Location
Ticket Prices: NT$ 150 per person for General Entry. There are discounts for Taiwan Residents and seniors. >> BUY YOUR DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE
Shopping and Dining Areas: There are souvenir shops selling traditional crafts and restaurants serving local cuisine.
Accessibility: Facilities for disabled visitors are available, including wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms.

What to See at The National Center for Traditional Arts

1. Exhibition Halls

Artifacts and Artworks: Explore a range of traditional Taiwanese arts, including intricate handicrafts, historical artifacts, and artworks.
Thematic Exhibits: The center regularly hosts thematic exhibitions that focus on specific aspects of traditional arts, such as puppetry, textile arts, or indigenous crafts.

2. Performance Venues

Traditional Performances: Witness captivating performances of traditional music, dance, and theater. These performances often showcase Taiwan’s diverse cultural heritage, including influences from various ethnic groups.
Festivals and Special Events: The center hosts various cultural festivals and events, where you can enjoy special performances and ceremonies.

3. Craft Workshops at The National Center for Traditional Arts

Hands-On Experience: Participate in workshops where you can learn and practice traditional crafts like pottery, wood carving, and fabric weaving under the guidance of skilled artisans.
Artisan Demonstrations: Watch artisans at work, demonstrating the intricate processes involved in traditional crafts.

4. Outdoor Areas and Gardens

Scenic Landscapes: The center is set in a picturesque landscape, with well-maintained gardens and water features that reflect traditional Taiwanese aesthetics. You can even take a short boat tour!
Leisure Walks: Enjoy leisurely walks along pathways that offer serene views and a peaceful environment to reflect on the cultural experiences.

5. Traditional Architecture

Architectural Tour: The center itself is an example of traditional Taiwanese architecture. A walk around the grounds offers insights into the architectural styles and building techniques of historical Taiwan.

6. Shopping and Dining

Souvenir Shops: Purchase unique traditional crafts, artworks, and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Traditional Cuisine: Experience Taiwanese culinary traditions at the center’s restaurants and food stalls, offering a range of local delicacies.

9. Educational Programs

Workshops for Children and Adults: Educational programs are available for various age groups, aiming to educate the younger generation about the importance of preserving traditional arts.

10. Special Events

Lantern Festival: A significant event showcasing intricate lantern designs and cultural performances.
Dragon Boat Festival: Celebrates this traditional festival with races and cultural activities.
Chinese New Year Celebrations: Special events and activities to ring in the Lunar New Year.

Conclusion – Is it Worth A Visit?

We enjoyed a lot our visit to the National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA). We actually didn’t know about it, but as we were driving during our road trip and it was lunchtime, we were looking for places to eat. Somehow the NCTA came up and with a good review on Google Maps, we thought why not combine lunch with a cultural visit?

And it turned out to be a really good idea. The place is full of charm, surrounded by nature, with a beautiful lake, and plenty of things to eat! So if you are in the area, don’t hesitate and pay a visit to the National Center for Traditional Arts (NCTA)

GUIDE TO TAIWAN NATIONAL CENTER FOR TRADITIONAL ARTS

Overview of The National Center for Traditional Arts