As you approach the National Museum of Taiwan History, you’ll notice a striking feature from afar — the solar panel installation. This "Photovoltaic Cloud Wall" consists of 1,350 solar panels and 405 printed glass panels, with the museum’s English name, "National Museum of Taiwan History," displayed prominently. These panels help power part of the museum’s electricity needs.
The museum’s outdoor area is well worth a visit for the whole family. It features the "Sky Plaza Water Stage," a uniquely designed walkway that feels like walking on water. Qing Lake, Forget-Worry Lake, Bamboo Basket Houses, and the Hand-in-Hand Bridge offer excellent opportunities for bird watching and enjoying natural scenery. The "Happy Kaleidoscope" zone is perfect for parent-child recreation and ecological education, with sand play areas and butterfly observation.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the "Time Station." This installation mimics a train station with a life-sized train car. Visitors need to collect tickets and board, and the carriage simulates the motion of a real train while a 10-minute video plays, immersing everyone in a historical journey. Note that the time train operates at scheduled times, so be sure to check the showtimes in advance!
The first floor is a paradise for kids, featuring exhibits such as the "Time Tunnel," "Natural Taiwan," "Rural Impressions," and "Childhood Games." Children can learn while observing lifelike models of crabs, turtles, and more.
The second floor takes visitors through Taiwan’s rich historical narrative — from maritime explorations and immigration from China, to Japanese colonization, the White Terror era, the economic boom, and modern times. The museum uses life-sized wax figures and immersive environments to vividly depict history. Unlike other museums where wax figures are roped off, here visitors can get up close and even pose for fun and interactive photos.
Highlights include traditional folk performance groups like the "Eight Generals," the Yilan Pole-Climbing Festival, period street scenes, and depictions of Japanese military police. There’s even a designated space where visitors can step into the scene and take memorable photos — but you might have to wait your turn! Exhibits also include nostalgic scenes like an entire family riding a vintage "Wild Wolf 125" motorcycle or families engaged in home-based manufacturing, representing Taiwan’s economic miracle.
The National Museum of Taiwan History is a deeply nostalgic, educational, and enjoyable place for visitors of all ages. It’s time to pack up and head there now!