ICSSI 2024 Organizing Committee has arranged a local cultural tour on July 26th to provide participants with a deeper understanding of Taiwanese culture and environmental sustainability. The itinerary is as follows:

In the morning, attendees will visit the Yingge Ceramics Museum to learn about Taiwan's cultural crafts. Lunch will be enjoyed at Yuan Shan Red Loft. In the afternoon, the tour will proceed to Sanxia to visit cultural landmarks such as Sanxia Zushi Temple and Sanxia Old Street. The tour will also include a Handcraft Workshop: Indigo Dyeing. Brief introductions to each site and activity would follow here.

Yingge Ceramics Museum (鶯歌博物館)

New Taipei City Yingge Ceramics Museum is a museum dedicated to ceramics located in the Yingge District of New Taipei, Taiwan. It is Taiwan’s first specialized museum with ceramics as a major theme. Yingge Ceramics Museum is not only a celebration of artistic mastery but also a testament to environmental stewardship. It embraces sustainable practices at every turn, from sourcing local clay to implementing eco-friendly production processes. Through innovative exhibits and educational programs, Yingge Ceramics Museum inspires visitors to appreciate the beauty of ceramics while fostering a deeper understanding of the responsibility to protect and preserve the planet for future generations.

Picture: Provided by New Taipei City Travel

Handcraft Workshop: Indigo Dyeing (藍染工坊)

Fast fashion industries often use chemical indigo dyeing, which can have a negative impact on the environment. Indigo dyeing, a traditional fabric technique in Taiwan, uses natural material–indigo plants as the dye source. Through intricate printing and dyeing processes, artisans create beautiful blue-and-white patterned fabrics. The Sanxia Indigo Dyeing Workshop is dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional art of indigo dyeing. The workshop offers experiential learning and a variety of indigo-dyed products. Visitors to the Sanxia Indigo Dyeing Workshop can participate in hands-on workshops, learn about the history of indigo dyeing, and craft their unique indigo-dyed items. The ICSSI 2024 Conference aims to raise awareness of cultural heritage and environmental sustainability by leading participants through this workshop experience.

Sanxia Zushi Temple (三峽清水祖師廟)

The Sanxia Zushi Temple is located near Sanxia Old Street in New Taipei City. It is renowned as the “Eastern Art Palace” due to its exquisite blend of different artistic styles from various craftsmen and contemporary artists. The temple, founded in 1769 during the Qing Dynasty, features intricate stone carvings, wooden sculptures, and a unique spiral-patterned coffered ceiling. The temple’s main hall boasts twenty intricately carved stone columns, including the revered “The Layered-Openwork Octagonal Dragon Columns.” Each carved character is vivid and distinctive. The temple is a must-visit for its rich cultural heritage and stunning craftsmanship. 

Picture: Provided by New Taipei City Travel

Sanxia Old Street (三峽老街)

Sanxia Old Street is a charming tourist destination in the Sanxia District of New Taipei City. This historic street has its roots in the Qing Dynasty and has thrived from the Japanese occupation period to modern times. As you stroll through the quaint Sanxia Old Street, you’ll be transported back in time. The continuous red-brick archways and Baroque-style gateways create a unique ambiance. The street is a delightful blend of cultural heritage, delicious food, and traditional crafts.

Picture: Provided by New Taipei City Travel

Yuan Shan Red Loft (鳶山紅樓)

Yuan Shan Red Loft is a hidden gem of a restaurant located in the Sanxia District of New Taipei City. With its stunning views of the Dahan River, creative menu offerings, and exquisite seafood provide a delightful culinary experience.