Yilan's Neglected Landscapes Revealed: A Portrayal of Disrepair
In the heart of Yilan County, nestled within the verdant landscapes of Wujie Township, lies the unique Chung Hsing Cultural and Creative Park (CHCCP). This distinctive cultural site stands out due to its joint venture between the national and provincial governments, setting it apart from many other cultural destinations that are usually administered by a single level of government.
The park's history, however, remains somewhat shrouded in mystery. Detailed historical specifics about its founding date or original purpose are not readily available, but it is known that it once served as a newsprint manufacturing site, a legacy of Japanese business interests dating back to 1919. The site was later taken over by Taiwan Chung Hsing Paper Corporation, established in 1958.
Today, the park is part of broader efforts in Yilan to revitalize and preserve cultural heritage. Yet, some areas show signs of dilapidation, suggesting that while CHCCP is recognized as a cultural asset, it may require ongoing maintenance and development to fully realize its potential as a vibrant cultural and creative hub.
One of the park's most intriguing landmarks is Lu Zuan-xiang's Mansion, located at the intersection of Heping Street and Heping West Road. Lu Zuan-xiang, a published poet and Yilan County's first elected magistrate, resided in this mansion from 1946 until his death in 1957. The mansion, with its foundations of ballast stones from China and walls up to 27 cm thick, continues to serve as a private residence, leaving the curious to peer over the wall.
Visitors to CHCCP can also explore several semi-ruined buildings, where metal screens serve as both effective barriers and meaningful works of art. The park's warehouses and office spaces have been allotted to startups and cultural-creative enterprises, adding a modern twist to the historic site.
A half-hour walk from CHCCP leads to the Luodong Forestry Culture Park, which is connected with the exploitation of Taiwan's forests. Northeast Taiwan is rich in forest resources, and Yilan County is home to Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area and Makauy Ecological Park.
Nearby Toucheng Old Street, once a thriving trade nexus known as Shisanhang, has seen a decline due to changes in the Yilan River's course and the completion of the Yilan Line. Only two of the original 13 businesses still stand, one of which is number 152 on Heping Street.
The park's cultural significance extends beyond its boundaries. Among its employees was the father of democracy activist Deng Nan-jung, who has a small memorial named Nylon Cheng Square within CHCCP.
Yilan County, known for its wet weather, is a haven for cultural exploration. The most striking building in the area is the Lanyang Museum, while a sealed well near Toucheng Old Street, though its exact purpose is unclear, adds to the area's historical allure.
Despite the park's rich history and ongoing efforts to revitalize it, comprehensive details on the specific buildings, exhibitions, or events currently hosted at CHCCP are not readily available. However, the park's blend of history and creativity promises an intriguing experience for those who venture to explore it.
The Chung Hsing Cultural and Creative Park (CHCCP) is not just a cultural site, but also a place where home-and-garden lifestyle, travel, and artistic creativity intertwine. As visitors wander through semi-ruined buildings and explore startups and cultural-creative enterprises within the park, they can enjoy a unique blend of the past and present, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of historical exploration and creative experiences.
Moreover, the nearby locations such as Luodong Forestry Culture Park, Toucheng Old Street, Lanyang Museum, and the sealed well, add to the rich tapestry of Yilan County's cultural offerings, providing a lifestyle immersed in history, art, and natural beauty for the discerning traveler.
