Taiwanese Traditions & Culture

Mission Statement

Archive Taiwan is a digital humanities project that tells the story of lost Taiwanese language, folktales, customs, rite of passage, and holidays. It collects information from diverse members of the Taiwanese community and encapsulates it through video form, narrated by Bay Area high school student Bennett Huang. It also contains a student videos section, where local Taiwanese students talk about their family's experiences, traditions, and more.

About the Founder

Hi! My name is Bennett Huang, and I am a high school student from the Bay Area. I have a deep passion for computer science and math, and love to play soccer and sing in choir. I was inspired to create ArchiveTaiwan when I was on a service trip to Taiwan when I realized the vast, untold stories and cultural traditions that exist only in the memories of the community. This digital storytelling archive creates bridges between generations and preserves anecdotes and wisdoms that might otherwise be lost with elderly community members.

Language

Taiwanese Language

Although many Taiwanese people from younger generations primarily speak Taiwanese Mandarin(a dialect that differs slightly from Mainland Mandarin), the island’s original inhabitants spoke a different language–Taiwanese Hokkien. However, years of occupation by various countries including Japan and China forced this traditional language to be pushed down and hidden. This section will explore the history, nuances, and resilience of Taiwanese Hokkien across generations.

Folktales

Traditional Taiwanese Folktales

Taiwanese folktales have played an important role throughout generations–levereged to teach moral lessons, explain natural phenomena, and preserve cultural values. This collection features stories of everything from legendary figures to everyday heroes that continue to shape Taiwanese culture.

Customs

Taiwanese Customs & Traditions

Taiwanese traditions have been passed down through generations and continue to influence contemporary society on the island today. From tea ceremonies to ancestral worship, this section dives into the nuances of these practices that have been central to Taiwanese culture for centuries.

Holidays

Taiwanese Holidays & Celebrations

Taiwanese holidays like the Lantern Festival and Dragon Boat Festival uniquely blend traditional practices passed down generations with modern innovation. This section explores the origins, traditions, and modern celebrations of Taiwan's most important holidays, showing how these festivals continue to unite families and preserve cultural identity across generations.

Children Interviews

Interviews with Taiwanese Children

This section gives a glimpse into Taiwanese life and culture through the perspectives of local community members. It captures Taiwanese students interviewing members of their community and family, and is an authentic experience into the rich culture of the island.