The National Taiwan Museum is the sort of museum you can finish exploring in 2 hours, or less, and gleefully check off your must-visit list. While you’re at it, cross off the Taiwan Land Bank Exhibition Hall as well; it’s located right across the street and you can enter using the same admission ticket.
Even so, there’s a reason why the National Taiwan Museum is one of Taiwan’s most beloved museums. Built nearly a century ago in the Doric-style architecture popular during the Renaissance Period, the museum brings to mind visions of the Parthenon, nestled in the serenity of the 228 Peace Park.
Inside the museum, the main entrance and lobby are resplendent in lavish embellishments and ornate carvings. What takes the cake though, is the vaulted roof ceiling and stained glass window.
Never have I seen such glittering opulence inside a museum. If my future home could be like that, I’d be so happy!
There are two permanent exhibitions, one on Taiwan’s indigenous people and the other on her indigenous creatures. I really loved the exhibition on Taiwan’s indigenous people and it provided such a fascinating peek into the lives of Taiwan’s twelve tribes.
Did you know that Amis women are the ones who make the first move when expressing interest? An Amis man may have three or four ladies vying for his affection but his mother holds the veto power. When its finally time to settle down, the women are also the ones who pop the question! You go, girl!
There was also a special exhibition on Islamic Life and Culture the last time I was there.
I realized that for all the talk about Singapore being multicultural, I knew surprisingly little about Islam and Muslim traditions. I was even more surprised to find out that Taiwan has a thriving Muslim population! In a world rife with religious intolerance, exhibitions like this really go a long way towards forging greater understanding.
Other than the two permanent galleries, the special exhibitions change quite frequently, so it’s best to check out their website here for the latest information. Ticket prices are only 30 NTD per person and it was free entry the Sunday I visited. Don’t take my word for it though; it’s always best to check their website for any updates. :)
Address:
100, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongzheng District, 襄陽路2號
Getting there:
Take the MRT and alight at NTU Hospital Station. Come up from Exit 4. The museum is a short walk away.
la petite beanie 