Matsu New Village Cultural and Creative Park Introduction
Matsu New Village was established in 1957 and was originally planned as a residential area for the families of the soldiers stationed in the Matsu Islands from the Army's 84th Division. This place once gathered many families of high-ranking military officers and held the beautiful nickname of "Stars Filling the Sky." Today, Matsu New Village has undergone the test of time and has become an important base for the preservation of military village culture, deserving a leisurely visit from travelers to savor its charm. The unique appeal of Matsu New Village lies in its well-preserved military village features. From the design of the residential spaces, one can clearly see a microcosm of life reflecting the hierarchy and power distribution of that era, authentically reenacting the living conditions of the time. In 2004, the Taoyuan City Government designated Matsu New Village as a historical building, following the principle of "restoring while revitalizing" during renovations, successfully turning it into a model for the integration of military village culture and cultural creativity, allowing the once-prosperous scenes to flourish with new life. The heart of film and television culture in Matsu New Village can be felt at the Zhongli Light and Shadow Cinema. This artistically atmospheric cinema, with 75 seats, serves as an important base for local film education. The monthly themed film exhibitions and curated films not only provide citizens with free visual feasts but also attract a large number of film enthusiasts for appreciation and exchange. The artistic regeneration of historical spaces can be seen in the former No. 1 to 3 military residences, which have now been transformed into the "Matsu Experimental Art Gallery." This stage showcasing creations has garnered the attention of many young artists and creative workers. The annual open call for exhibitions transforms spaces originally filled with military village history and memories into vibrant venues for cultural creativity, becoming an excellent platform for artistic and creative exchange. In the picturesque setting of the military village, families can also enjoy endless artistic charm with their children. The "Matsu Kindergarten," formerly a preschool, has been restored and is now being developed into a children's art cultivation base, providing interactive spaces for parents and children, along with performance exhibitions and cultural education promotion activities that integrate art into life and foster a deep-rooted arts and humanities education from childhood. Exploring the unique artisan shops in Matsu New Village provides artisans with a space to showcase their skills and creations. The area is home to many charming small shops that not only serve as great photo spots but also feature delicious eateries and handmade popsicle shops, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the military village while experiencing the unique charm of Matsu New Village. Additionally, the area offers diverse activities such as handmade fragrances, pottery creation, leather carving crafts, and qipao customization and experiences, making it a perfect choice for leisurely relaxation during weekends.
