Not just literature, but the voice and memory of Taiwan's history.

How long has it been since you last truly read a passage and quietly felt the weight of a sentence? Stepping into the National Museum of Taiwan Literature in the heart of Tainan City, I felt as though I had entered a letter from the depths of Taiwan's history. The words in this letter are not just poetry or novels; they are the shared memories and emotions we have experienced together. This museum may be small, but it makes you want to linger for a long time. 🏛️ Tainan's most beautiful historic building, housing the soul of Taiwan's literature The museum was originally the "Tainan Prefecture Hall," built in 1916 during the Japanese colonial period. It was an important government building designed in the Baroque style, featuring elegant domes, symmetrical columns, red brick walls, and intricate stone decorations. Now transformed into the literature museum, it retains the soul of the historic architecture while infusing it with new cultural vitality. Walking into the grand hall, you are greeted by a high vaulted ceiling and vintage tiles, creating an atmosphere that is solemn yet approachable. This is not a cold, sterile literary archive but a museum where you can "feel literature with your body." 📖 From century-old poetry to contemporary online writers—every voice is heard The museum's permanent exhibition, "The Story of Taiwan Literature," uses a clear timeline to guide visitors through Taiwan's literary journey, from the Dutch and Spanish periods to the present day: • Folk literature and poetry from the Qing Dynasty • Serialized newspaper stories and Japanese poetry from the colonial era • The flourishing creative energy after the lifting of martial law • Dedicated sections for Indigenous, Hakka, women, and LGBTQ literature Through exhibits, manuscripts, audio recordings, and interactive installations, visitors can not only "see" the words but also "hear" their voices. One area I particularly loved was the "Sound Wall." With headphones on, you can listen to Yang Kui reading his own works, hear the poetic whispers of Lo Fu and Ya Xian—familiar yet distant voices seemingly echoing from the depths of time, sending chills down your spine. 🌳 Outside the museum: A space where literature and life coexist What makes the museum truly special is that it is not just a "museum" but also an integral part of the daily lives of Tainan's residents. On the outdoor lawn, you’ll often find people picnicking, children running around, and street performers showcasing their talents. The ginkgo trees in front of the museum turn golden in autumn and winter, making it a popular spot for photographers. Nearby, the literary shop, indie bookstore, and café add a distinct Tainan flavor to the area. There’s no intimidating "museum distance" here. Whether you’re a professional researcher or simply a traveler looking to stroll and read a book, this place welcomes you. 📍【National Museum of Taiwan Literature Quick Notes】 • Address: No. 1, Zhongzheng Road, West Central District, Tainan City (diagonally across from Tainan Confucius Temple) • Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (closed on Mondays) • Admission: Free • Recommended visit duration: About 1–1.5 hours • Transportation tips: Walk about 20 minutes from Tainan Train Station or take a bus to Confucius Temple Station • Nearby attractions: Taiwan Prefecture City God Temple, Confucius Temple Cultural Park, Hayashi Department Store, Tainan Art Museum Building 1 💬 Words are an invisible force that can transcend time and comfort the soul. At the National Museum of Taiwan Literature, you’ll discover that Taiwan’s literary landscape is more diverse and closer to everyday life than you might have imagined. You don’t need to be a literature enthusiast or understand poetry. Simply stepping into this space can allow a single sentence to gently touch your heart.