Taiwan's Cultural Gems Shine: 110 Venues Awarded and Recognized

Ministry of Culture Launches Program to Boost Taiwanese Cultural Heritage

Taipei, Taiwan – March 31st, the Ministry of Culture (MOC) has announced the recognition and financial support of 110 Taiwanese cultural venues. Each selected site will receive NT$500,000 (approximately US$15,062) to further enrich and promote Taiwan's vibrant cultural landscape.

The announcement follows the launch of the "Taiwan Culture Base" program, a two-year initiative designed to highlight the diverse cultural richness of the island. The MOC emphasized that this program aims to showcase the unique character and heritage of Taiwan.

A committee of 21 experts, representing a variety of cultural sectors, carefully selected the venues from a pool of over 1,000 nominations submitted by Taiwanese civil society groups. This careful selection process ensures that the chosen sites truly represent the best of Taiwan's cultural offerings.

The selected venues span seven broad categories, including crafts, arts and cultural performances, independent bookstores, local cultural centers, "community building" sites, historic sites, and film and television. This comprehensive approach ensures that the program encompasses the full spectrum of Taiwanese culture.

Among the recognized locations are notable examples like Jiang A-Sin Ancient House, a historic mansion in Hsinchu's Beipu Township, and the Guling Street Avant-Garde Theater in Taipei. Importantly, these sites are located across all 22 of Taiwan's cities and counties, guaranteeing a widespread impact.

Minister of Culture Li Yuan (李遠) expressed his enthusiasm, stating that the project fulfills one of his primary goals and will significantly enhance the promotion of Taiwanese cultural sites both domestically and internationally. He envisions a future where these cultural "bases" become magnets for locals and tourists alike.

Each of the 110 venues will benefit from the NT$500,000 financial support and official recognition for the next two years as designated Taiwanese "bases of culture."

For more details, including a complete list with links, photos, and information about each site, visit the MOC's website here.