Shuili Snake Kiln

　　A kiln is a structure used for firing bricks, tiles, and ceramics. Official kilns are generally referred to as dragon kilns, while snake kilns originated in Fuzhou on the mainland and were operated by private individuals, thus also known as folk kilns. Snake kilns are typically built along a slope using earthen bricks, with the kiln body being very long—when viewed from afar, it resembles a snake, hence the name. The Shuili Snake Kiln is the oldest and most traditional folk-style wood-fired kiln remaining in Taiwan, with a kiln body extending over a hundred Taiwanese feet. It uses firewood as fuel, and the ash from the burning wood falls onto the clay bodies, creating rich color variations and a rustic texture that modern kilns cannot replicate.

　　The Shuili Snake Kiln was established in 1927 by master potter Lin Jiangsong and is located in Dingshan Village, Shuili Township, Nantou County, Taiwan, near Sun Moon Lake. It 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 now houses the Shuili Snake Kiln Ceramics Cultural Park, which includes not only the kiln itself but also a pottery studio, a ceramics museum, a 921 Earthquake Memorial Room, and other facilities. It is one of the most renowned attractions in Taiwan. 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