Hsiang Ren He Bell and Drum Factory Introduction
The development of Xinzhuang began due to the river port shipping of the Tamsui River, with convenient transportation bringing prosperity to the city. During the early days, Xinzhuang was the fastest developing area in northern Taiwan. Even during the Japanese colonial period, Xinzhuang continued to flourish, with various entertainment activities becoming increasingly vibrant. The streets were filled with "Budaixi nests," "theater dens," and "theater alleys," symbolizing the prosperity of various opera troupes and temple performance activities. An essential prop in these activities was the drum, which helped create a lively atmosphere. Consequently, the drum manufacturing industry in Xinzhuang also developed. The most well-known drum factory is the "Hsiang-Jen-He Drums and Gongs Factory," founded by A-Tu (real name Wang Gui-Zhi). His eldest son, Master Wang Hsi-Kun, inherited the family business and elevated the drum-making skills further. The drums made by Hsiang-Jen-He are widely favored and ordered by major domestic and international art groups, including the Ju Percussion Group, Han-Tang Yuefu, and the U-Theater. Additionally, many major temples in Taiwan, such as Fo Guang Shan, Dharma Drum Mountain, Bao'an Temple, and the Confucius Temple, are also regular users of Xinzhuang drums. The reputation of Xinzhuang Hsiang-Jen-He Drums has even spread abroad, with countries like Japan, Malaysia, the United States, India, and various European countries vying to use them. As a result, Xinzhuang has become synonymous with drum craftsmanship, and the art of drumming has become a source of pride for the people of Xinzhuang.
