Taiwan’s Indigenous heritage has found a new international stage, as an expansive and interactive exhibition opened at the National Technical Museum in Prague, Czech Republic, on April 16, 2025. The exhibit, a collaboration between the National Taiwan Museum and its Czech counterparts, marks a milestone in cross-cultural cooperation and highlights Taiwan’s commitment to preserving and promoting the diverse traditions of its Indigenous peoples.
🌏 A Global Platform for Taiwan’s Indigenous Voices
The exhibition—described as “the first step to discovering Taiwan” by Taiwan’s Culture Minister Li Yuan (李遠)—is more than just an art display. It’s a cultural diplomacy initiative that bridges Taiwan’s rich tribal legacy with European audiences, giving the world a closer look at the island’s 16 officially recognized Indigenous groups.
Two centerpiece installations stand out:
- A Tatala Fishing Boat built by Syaman Rapongan, a Yami (Tao) author and ocean navigator, symbolizing the maritime traditions of Orchid Island’s Tao tribe.
- A Traditional Hunting Hut crafted by Tsou hunter An Hsiao-ming, showcasing architectural skills rooted in forest survival and ancestral knowledge.
These pieces aren’t temporary—they are now permanent exhibits in the Czech National Technical Museum, a rare honor and an indicator of the exhibit’s cultural significance.
🛠️ Blending Tradition with Technology
The exhibit boasts more than 100 physical artifacts, including:
- Carved wooden tools
- Ceramic figurines
- Beaded ceremonial attire
- Hunting weapons
What sets this exhibition apart is its use of interactive technologies:
- Virtual Reality (VR) stations simulate tribal hunting techniques, seafaring navigation, and shelter-building.
- Touch-sensitive panels let visitors hear tribal languages and traditional songs.
- Augmented reality (AR) features enable real-time exploration of cultural symbols and ancestral myths.
This tech-forward approach allows visitors to not only view history but experience it, creating a bridge between modern education methods and ancient traditions.
🎤 Taiwan’s Soft Power on Display
The exhibition is also a strategic soft power move by Taiwan. As Taiwan continues to seek international allies and recognition, cultural exchange programs like this deepen diplomatic goodwill—especially in Europe, where Taiwan has strengthened ties with democratic partners like the Czech Republic.
Deputy Czech cultural officials noted that Taiwan’s Indigenous narratives offer valuable comparisons with Central European indigenous heritage, opening doors to academic exchange, joint research, and future collaborations between museums and universities.
🏝️ Why This Matters
Taiwan’s Indigenous communities have long struggled with preservation challenges, from land rights issues to language loss. By showcasing their culture abroad, Taiwan asserts not only their importance to the nation’s identity but also signals that these traditions are living, evolving, and globally significant.
Moreover, with this being Taiwan’s first Indigenous-centered cultural exhibition in Eastern Europe, it reflects a turning point in cultural diplomacy, amplifying minority voices on a global scale.
📅 Exhibition Details
- Name: “Everyday Life of Taiwan’s Indigenous Peoples”
- Location: National Technical Museum, Prague, Czech Republic
- Duration: April 16 – September 28, 2025
- Organizers: National Taiwan Museum, Ministry of Culture (Taiwan), National Technical Museum (Czech Republic)
🧠 FAQs
How many Indigenous groups are there in Taiwan?
Taiwan officially recognizes 16 Indigenous tribes, each with its own language, rituals, and traditions.
Why was Prague chosen for the exhibition?
Taiwan and the Czech Republic share strong democratic values and increasing cultural and educational cooperation. Prague offers a key platform to reach broader European audiences.
Can this exhibit be viewed online?
While the full exhibit is physical, Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture plans to release virtual tours and educational content on its website to reach global audiences.
What is a Tatala boat?
The Tatala is a hand-built, intricately decorated fishing boat used by the Tao people of Orchid Island. It is a powerful symbol of their seafaring culture.
How does this exhibition help Taiwan diplomatically?
Cultural diplomacy helps Taiwan build soft power and strengthen international alliances, especially as it faces diplomatic pressure from China.
