Booklet exploring the history of rural Taitung township released

Taipei, Feb. 16 (CNA) Taiwanese artist and writer Chiang Hsun (蔣勳) has released a booklet exploring the histories of Chishang Township, Taitung County and the first person to live in the restored Japanese colonial-era building that now houses his gallery.

At a launch event on Saturday, Chiang said that the booklet tells the story of Ichihiko Horie, offering readers a deeper understanding of Chishang's cultural heritage.

According to Chiang, Horie was the principal of the then-Fu Yuan Primary School (formerly Chishang Public School) and the first occupant of what is now the Chiang Hsun Gallery, which originally served as the school's dormitory.

Horie, who arrived in Taitung in 1932, composed 11 folk songs inspired by the region, reflecting his deep connection to the land, Chiang said, expressing hopes the booklet will help share Horie's story with a wider audience.

Chiang also emphasized the need for a more reflective and meaningful approach to tourism in Taiwan -- one that goes beyond food and entertainment to authentically tell the stories of each place.

If every township in Taiwan could have a booklet like this, it would help build a more grounded and authentic understanding of the country's history, Chiang said.

Horie's residence was restored in 2019 by environmental artist Wang Chin-sheng (王金生) and later opened to the public with support from the Taitung County Government and the Chiang Hsun Culture Foundation.

The free booklet will be available from Feb. 16 to March 23 for visitors who book a free guided tour at the gallery.