Although the Lantern Festival is winding down, the Taichung City government’s Cultural Affairs Bureau invites all to keep the festive spirit alive by visiting the Lin Family Ancestral Shrine, a designated historic site in Taichung, during early spring. This historic site offers a glimpse into the elegance of Minnan-style architecture, along with a chance to appreciate the intricate lantern artistry of cultural heritage preserver Hsieh Chih-Yun.
The Cultural Affairs Bureau highlights the cultural richness of traditional lanterns, which come in many forms and represent a blend of artistic skills like bamboo weaving, painting, mounting, decorative arts, and calligraphy. According to the Cultural Heritage Department, artisan Hsieh Chih-Yun is well-versed in the lantern-making process and painting techniques, and is especially skilled in crafting umbrella lanterns (which can be opened and closed like an umbrella). In 2024, the Taichung City Government officially recognized lantern-making as a traditional craft and named Hsieh as its preserver, aiming to pass on and protect the treasured heritage of traditional lantern craft.
Hsieh Chih-Yun, who runs the Long Gu Lantern Shop on Taichung’s Jingwu Road, has crafted lanterns for a variety of clients, from businesses to temples. One notable example is Miyahara, where Hsieh’s lanterns—painted with the large characters “Ri Chu” (Sunrise)—add festive charm during the holidays. Additionally, at the historic Lin Family Ancestral Shrine, Hsieh was responsible for designing and producing all the new lanterns inside and out. Featuring classic Song-style characters and auspicious designs, his traditional craftsmanship blends seamlessly with the historic setting, showcasing the beauty of cultural heritage.
In traditional customs and culture—especially during seasonal festivals and important life events—lanterns have been a symbol of joy and celebration. From temple ceremonies to weddings and funerals at home, they hold deep meaning and are closely connected to folk life and customs. This spring, the Taichung City Government’s Cultural Affairs Bureau invites all who loves cultural heritage and traditional crafts to visit the Lin Family Ancestral Shrine. It’s a perfect opportunity to carry on the joyful New Year spirit while enjoying the unique aesthetics of traditional lantern craftsmanship and the shrine’s historic setting.
The Lin Family Ancestral Shrine in Taichung opens on weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM, with a lunch break closure from 12 to 1 PM. If you'd like to visit outside of regular hours, you can call (04) 2224-6928 to make a reservation. For more information on Taichung’s cultural heritage and to book a guided tour, please visit the Cultural Heritage Travel section of the Cultural Heritage Department’s website. (https://www.tchac.taichung.gov.tw/attractionList?uid=69)