The Taichung Opera House, one of the “World’s Nine New Landmarks,” is set to open in November with guided tours available.

▲ The National Taichung Theater is set to open at the end of November. The most iconic feature of the building is the south facade, designed exclusively by Toyo Ito and called the “Cave of Bottles.” The embedded glass windows resemble rows of wine bottles, symbolizing the intoxicating joy of enjoying an opera performance. (Photo / From the Facebook page of the Strong Fans Club)

By reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Comprehensive report

Rated by international media as one of the “World’s Nine New Landmark Buildings,” the National Taichung Theater will officially open on November 23. To help the public fully appreciate this stunning architectural masterpiece, the Taichung City Cultural Affairs Bureau has launched guided tour services starting November 1.

Designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito, the 2013 Pritzker Prize laureate, the National Taichung Theater features a flowing, curvilinear exterior that stands as one of the most significant works of his career. The building’s unique curved wall structure has garnered global attention since construction began and has been honored by international media as one of the “World’s Nine New Landmark Buildings.”

In preparation for the opening of the National Taichung Theater, the Taichung City Cultural Affairs Bureau began accepting group tour reservations on October 20. Public guided tours will start on November 1, with five time slots available daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Through volunteer-guided tours, visitors can gain an in-depth understanding of Toyo Ito’s pioneering “Sound Cave” curved wall design concept.