Xiangrenhe Bell and Drum Factory Introduction
The development of Xinzhuang was driven by the river port shipping of the Tamsui River, with convenient transportation bringing prosperity to the city. In the early days, Xinzhuang was the fastest developing area in northern Taiwan. During the Japanese colonial period, the Xinzhuang area continued to thrive, and various entertainment activities became increasingly active. The streets were filled with "puppet theaters," "playhouses," and "theater alleys," symbolizing the flourishing of various theatre troupes and temple performances. An essential prop in these activities was the drum, which enhanced the atmosphere. Consequently, the drum-making industry in Xinzhuang also flourished. The most well-known drum factory is "Hsiang-Jen-Ho Bell and Drum Factory," founded by A-Tu Shi, whose real name is Wang Guizhi. His eldest son, Wang Xikun, inherited his father's business and took the drum-making skills to new heights. The drums made by Hsiang-Jen-Ho are beloved and ordered by major domestic and international arts groups, including the Zhu Zongqing Percussion Group, the Han Tang Yuefu, and the U-Theater. Additionally, major temples in Taiwan, such as Fo Guang Shan, Dharma Drum Mountain, Bao'an Temple, and the Confucius Temple, are also avid users of Xinzhuang drums. The reputation of Xinzhuang's Hsiang-Jen-Ho Bell and Drum Factory has even spread abroad, with countries such as Japan, Malaysia, the United States, India, and various European nations eager to use their products. As a result, Xinzhuang has become synonymous with drum-making craftsmanship, and percussion arts have become a source of pride for the people of Xinzhuang.
