Zhong Lihe Memorial Residence Introduction
Zhong Lihe was born in 1915 in Guangxing Village, Gaoshu Township, Pingtung County. He received traditional Chinese education from a young age and gradually moved towards a literary path. His works profoundly depict the dignity and living conditions of grassroots people, making him a highly influential Hakka writer in the history of Taiwanese literature. The former residence of Zhong Lihe is the place where he lived until he was eighteen. It is a traditional three-section courtyard building typical of wealthy families at that time. Entering the former residence, one can sense Zhong Lihe's love and passion for humanity through the bricks, tiles, and furnishings inside. After the birth of his eldest son, Zhong began his writing and translating career. His works often reveal a deep understanding of the dignity and living situations of common folk, such as "The Sadness of Sweet Potatoes," "Forest Fire," "Bamboo Head Village," "In-laws and Mountain Songs," "Uncle A-Huang," "A-Yuan," "On the Grass Slope," and "The Old Woodcutter." His works won several awards, including the second prize in the Long Novel category from the National Chinese Literature Award for "Lishan Farm" and an Honorable Mention from Hong Kong's Asia Weekly for "The Tobacco House." His contributions to literature have earned him the title of "Father of Modern Taiwanese Literature." The once dilapidated former residence of Zhong Lihe has been restored to its former appearance. The front yard is enclosed by a wall made of red bricks, and the roof features a swallowtail design. The courtyard is planted with hundred-year-old osmanthus trees, which emit a fragrant aroma during the blooming season. Worth exploring is the water reservoir in front of the house, as life was generally poor at that time. On water supply days, one could see the entire village coming to fetch water with buckets, highlighting the importance of this water reservoir.
