Shuimei Wood Carving Street Introduction
The streets of Sanyi primarily revolve around Zhongzheng Road, lined with numerous carving shops. Almost half of the local residents make a living from the wood carving industry, with the main materials sourced from Dasyueshan, Alishan, Fengyuan, Zhushan, and Zhudong, primarily using camphor wood, but also including cypress and sandalwood. What makes Sanyi carving unique is the masters' ability to teach according to the material, often utilizing large wood forms for carving or creating many lively and natural pieces that breathe new life into the materials. Currently, Sanyi wood carvings can be found along Shui Mei, accessible from the Sanyi interchange on the highway, about a kilometer along Provincial Highway 3. Over 200 craft shops are concentrated in this area, with some having production factories located behind the stores. The geographical advantage attracts many buyers, making it a major trading place for Sanyi wood carvings. Walking along Shui Mei Street, one can be amazed by the rugged Daruma dolls, solemn Guanyin statues, and lifelike small animals, all capturing one's attention.
