Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines in Taipei presents the cultures, histories and daily lives of Taiwan’s Indigenous peoples across four floors. Displays compare objects such as clothing, textiles, art and eating utensils, with English translations, videos and interactive exhibits to help you explore. Begin on the ground floor for an introduction, then allow time for the videos and the floor devoted to textiles and clothing. The museum is close to the National Palace Museum, so the two can fit into the same day.
What the museum covers
The museum focuses on the cultures and histories of Taiwan’s Indigenous peoples. Its ethnological displays compare differences among groups through objects and customs, including art, beliefs, eating utensils and clothing. The collections aim to preserve and share aspects of Indigenous history that have not been recorded in writing.
Exhibits span four floors, with a different focus on each level. English translations appear throughout, and the museum uses audiovisual material and interactive displays alongside objects. The ground floor provides an introduction through three videos, so beginning there gives you context for the floors above.
Videos and interactive exhibits
Videos are a substantial part of the visit, and the material covers both history and contemporary life. Some English-language footage about contemporary life dates from 1999, so it does not provide a fully up-to-date picture. The exhibits also include interactive elements, including a Paiwan dancing game platform.
A floor devoted to textiles and clothing gives particular attention to how these objects help explain distinct Indigenous cultures. If you are visiting with children, the interactive displays and video material offer ways to engage beyond reading exhibit text. Photography is not permitted, so plan to take in the displays during your visit rather than documenting them.
Combining it with the National Palace Museum
Shung Ye Museum is close to the National Palace Museum, making it practical to visit both on the same day. A combined ticket is available, and the museum is also near an Indigenous peoples park across the street. If you want to explore all four floors and watch the videos, set aside about three hours; a shorter visit of an hour leaves little time for a thorough look.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I spend at Shung Ye Museum?
Allow around three hours for a thorough visit across the four floors. An hour is likely to feel short if you want to watch the videos and explore the exhibits.
What can you see at the museum?
The displays cover Taiwan’s Indigenous cultures and histories, including textiles, clothing, art, beliefs and eating utensils. There are also English-language videos and interactive exhibits.
Can I get a combined ticket with the National Palace Museum?
Yes. A combined ticket with the nearby National Palace Museum is available.
Can you take photos inside?
Photography is not allowed inside the museum.
