Araki Art Center Introduction
Tongxiao Arakiyuen was established in 1966, originally as the Oriental Woodcarving Art Creation Society. In 1969, it was renamed Arakiyuen and became a well-known woodcarving factory in Tongxiao. It witnessed the flourishing woodcarving industry in Tongxiao during the 1960s and is one of the few woodcarving factories still operating today. In 1994, Arakiyuen established an art center to introduce traditional Chinese large woodworks and carving techniques, showcasing wooden Buddhist statues, root sculptures,透雕 (pierced carving), and everyday wooden art crafts. It offers visitors a chance to tour the woodcarving workshop, participate in DIY carving activities, and has become a well-known cultural and artistic attraction in the local area. In the display area, there are solemn statues of deities and many craft pieces, with intricate carvings that are visually stunning. The factory operation area retains complete production equipment, basic woodworking tools, wooden carving molds, and carving tools, allowing visitors to glimpse the woodcarving process. For those looking to try their hand at woodcarving, there is a DIY area where you can carve items such as pen holders, bookshelves, and the Five Roads God face masks. It can be said that the Arakiyuen Art Center has elevated a traditional woodcarving factory into a Buddhist art center and a hall for cultural heritage.
