ShuiLi Snake Kiln

ShuiLi Snake Kiln

A kiln is a structure used for firing bricks, tiles, and ceramics. Official kilns are generally called dragon kilns, while snake kilns originated in Fuzhou on the mainland and were operated by civilians, hence also referred to as folk kilns. Snake kilns are typically built along a slope using earthen bricks, and the kiln body is very long, resembling a snake when viewed from afar—hence the name. ShuiLi Snake Kiln is the oldest and most traditional wood-fired kiln in Taiwan with rich local cultural heritage. The kiln body stretches over a hundred Taiwanese feet, and it uses firewood as fuel. The ash from the burning wood falls onto the ceramic blanks, creating rich color variations and a rustic texture that cannot be replicated by modern kilns.

ShuiLi Snake Kiln was established in 1927 by master potter Lin Jiangsong. It is located in Dingkang Village, ShuiLi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan, near Sun Moon Lake, and has now been passed down to the third generation. Although it was severely damaged during the 921 Earthquake, the entire structure was restored by the year 2000. It currently houses the ShuiLi Snake Kiln Ceramics Cultural Park, which includes not only the kiln itself but also a pottery studio, a ceramics museum, and a 921 Earthquake Memorial Room, making it one of Taiwan’s most renowned attractions. The Millennium Double-Necked Vase created by the park in 2000 is currently the tallest ceramic piece in the world.

Snake Kiln

Must-visit reason: The oldest surviving kiln in Taiwan