Fengyuan Lacquerware Museum Introduction
The Taiwan Lacquerware Museum is the first public lacquerware exhibition hall in Taiwan. The development of lacquer art in Taiwan can be traced back to the Japanese occupation period, when the presence of the Dasyueshan and Baxianshan forests in Taichung City provided the materials needed for lacquerware craftsmanship. Additionally, the Japanese actively promoted the lacquer industry in central Taiwan, resulting in the emergence of many skilled artisans. The combination of favorable geography and human resources facilitated the flourishing of the lacquerware industry in Taichung City. Around the 1960s, with funding from the United States and equipment and technology provided by Japan, the "Milpahro Factory" was established in Fengyuan, specifically for producing salad bowls that are a hybrid between wooden and lacquered ware. Subsequently, many lacquerware artisans started their own businesses. By the 1960s and 1970s, there were over 40 local lacquerware shops, marking the peak period for exports to Japan, with most lacquerware being shipped from the Fengyuan area, which became a major center for lacquer art in Taiwan. Today, with the globalization of industries and a shift in manufacturing focus, Fengyuan lacquer art is transitioning from mass production to refined craftsmanship, continuing the spirit of innovation and heritage. Therefore, the establishment of the museum represents a driving force for lacquer art innovation and regeneration. The museum is located in the picturesque Zhongzheng Park, with the first floor serving as an exhibition area and workshop, showcasing historical materials on lacquer craftsmanship and works by renowned artists. The second floor mainly consists of exhibition rooms for local cultural industries and classrooms for workshops, supporting skill transmission and teaching activities. Thus, the Taiwan Lacquerware Museum is not only a space for static exhibitions but also serves educational, industrial, cultural, and recreational functions. We offer a variety of simple DIY courses, including making seed necklaces and bird whistles using the Yaki technique, as well as simple creations using the Maki-e technique to imprint leaf vein patterns onto lacquer plates, allowing for personal creative expression. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00-17:00. Address: No. 1-1, Shuiyuan Road, Fengyuan District, Taichung City. Contact phone: 04-25130177. Guided tours: ■ Available □ Not available ■ Reservation required. Reservation phone: 04-25130177. Other services: ■ DIY experience: 4-inch lacquer plate, necklace, bird whistle, chopsticks DIY courses. Text and images provided by the Taichung City Industrial Story Museum Development Association.
