Fusion of Tradition and Modernity: A Cultural Exploration at the Taiwan Traditional Arts Center.

For this trip to Taipei, I specifically arranged a culturally rich journey, with the first stop being the Taiwan Traditional Arts Center located in Yilan. Early in the morning, I took a train from Taipei to Yilan, and the scenic views along the way were very relaxing. Upon arrival, entering the arts center felt like stepping into a treasure trove of traditional culture. The streets within the center exuded a strong vintage atmosphere, with red brick walls, small bridges over flowing water, and traditional shops creating a charming picture. I first visited the 'Traditional Crafts Hall,' which showcased exquisite handmade crafts such as wood carvings, lacquerware, and pottery. Each piece reflected the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the artisans. I was also fortunate enough to watch a traditional opera performance, where the actors on stage wore magnificent costumes and sang beautifully, deeply immersing me in the charm of Taiwanese traditional arts. In the afternoon, I participated in a hands-on workshop and made a blue-dyed handkerchief. Although the dyeing process was intricate, the sense of accomplishment upon completing the piece was unparalleled. Next, I headed to the 'Food Area' to taste authentic Hakka snacks and traditional desserts, such as grass jelly and tapioca ice, which were simple yet unforgettable. In the evening, I strolled along the riverside path within the center, admiring the sunset reflecting on the water, perfectly concluding the day's itinerary. At night, I returned to Taipei and checked into a stylish boutique hotel to recharge for the next day's exploration.