Yuanli rush-woven hats and mats were once an important Taiwanese export craft, shipped during peak times to Japan and Southeast Asia. The Taiwan Rush Weaving Cultural Center was established by Yuanli Township Office and presents the full process of this craft — from harvesting and preparing the raw material to weaving the finished product — while preserving the historical memory of the hat-and-mat industry at its height.
Highlights of Taiwan Rush Weaving Cultural Center
The exhibition hall presents the development of Taiwan's rush hat-and-mat industry in chronological order: from Pingpu women first weaving daily utensils from rush, to Han Chinese adopters expanding production in the late Qing period, to the industry being incorporated into an export supply chain during the Japanese colonial era, through the peak of the early Republic of China period, and into the decline as machine production displaced handwork. Exhibits include actual hats and mats, weaving tools, and industry documents.
The center has rush weaving demonstration and hands-on workshop sessions led by local craftspeople. Visitors can try the basic weaving movements; rush has a triangular cross-section stem that requires maintaining the right tension as you weave — a skill that takes practice. Finished pieces from the workshop can be taken home as a distinctive local souvenir. Local farm produce is available for purchase around the center.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- By car: Follow Provincial Highway 1 to Yuanli Township, turn onto Kezhuang Road and follow the signs. Roadside parking is available.
- Alight at Yuanli Station on the Taiwan Railways, then walk about 10 to 15 minutes or take a taxi about 5 minutes.
- For opening hours and workshop session times, confirm with Yuanli Township Office or the center's official channels; special events may take place on certain holidays.
Nearby Connections
- Shanjiao Elementary School Japanese-Era Buildings: about 5 minutes by car — the architectural heritage site and craft display complement each other well.
- Yuanli Town Center Old Street: nearby; convenient for local food and farm produce shopping.
- Tongsiao Coastal Recreation Area: about 15 minutes north — can be scheduled as an afternoon coastal segment.
Source: Taiwan Rush Weaving Cultural Center; Yuanli Township Office cultural resources data. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.