Kaida Gran Cultural Center Introduction
The Ketagalan Culture Center records the historical context related to the Pingpu people, as well as contemporary indigenous art and artifacts. In addition to hot springs, Beitou offers a unique indigenous atmosphere. The name "Beitou" is a transliteration from the Ketagalan language, meaning "witch." Over four hundred years ago, it was the living source for the Ketagalan people. To preserve and promote indigenous cultural arts, the Ketagalan Culture Center was constructed in November 2002 by the Indigenous Peoples Commission of the Taipei City Government. The entire building is dedicated to showcasing indigenous cultural arts, providing an exclusive space for urban indigenous people to pass down their culture and practice their skills. Before entering the culture center, visitors are greeted by a row of wooden stakes adorned with various expressive tin sculptures, symbolizing unity with a hand-holding gesture that represents the indigenous philosophy that we are all one family. The interiors of the floors are organized by theme, presenting the historical context of indigenous culture in a lively and engaging manner, making it a prime location for a close encounter with indigenous culture. The ten-story main building features an exterior of distinct slate materials that gives the impression of a breathing house. Its strong minimalist design resonates with the surrounding hot spring hotels and Beitou Hot Spring Park. The bright and spacious lobby, adorned with vibrant tribal mosaic tiles, invites visitors into the embrace of tribal culture. The historically flavored stone carvings and striking wooden sculptures are particularly captivating, while various hunting tools hang on the walls, evoking the traditional lives of indigenous people who chased deer and wild boar. Every scene and object within the culture center reflects the traces of indigenous life! The first to third floors not only exhibit important artifacts and collections of the Pingpu people but also serve as public spaces for performances, activities, gatherings, and skill training centers, fostering a sense of community among urban indigenous people. The culture center also offers reading services focused on indigenous themes, with a diverse collection of books enhancing visitors' appreciation and understanding of indigenous cultural arts, inspiring students to explore and learn about diverse ethnic groups. Taiwan's towering mountains and plains have nurtured a diverse culture of many indigenous tribes. The Ketagalan Culture Center preserves the rituals and customs related to nature worship, allowing visitors to learn about the earliest groups to inhabit Taiwan. On this land, there is much remarkable ancestral wisdom, and if lucky, one might encounter indigenous groups dressed in traditional attire gathering or performing within the culture center, showcasing their pure and passionate side. Since its opening, the Ketagalan Culture Center has hosted numerous series of indigenous cultural activities and traditional handicraft exhibitions, showcasing the works of many indigenous artists, blending the native homeland with urban life, tradition with modernity, thus fulfilling the essential meaning of the culture center. Taiwan's diverse ethnic groups have developed a colorful cultural tapestry, and the culture center is not only a treasure trove of indigenous cultural collections but also a multifunctional learning center for indigenous cultural arts. Located in the Xinbeitou hot spring area, after immersing in rich culture and art, it is worthwhile to stroll through the misty hot spring town, continuing to trace the footsteps of the Ketagalan people!
