Surrounded by art everywhere you go！The Eastern Taiwan version of Huashan 1914 Creative Park — “Dulan Sugar Factory”

▲ The chimney at Dulan Sugar Factory is the landmark of the entire Dulan Village in Taitung. (Photo/IG@glayglayProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Reported by Cao Yuehua / Comprehensive Report

Dulan has always been a dream destination for travelers visiting Taitung, and the“Dulan Sugar Factory”,adorned with woodcarving art in every corner, its weathered walls paired with indigenous-themed graffiti, gives the entire space a unique artistic vibe, making it one of the locals’ hidden gems. Every weekend evening, music rich with “Lan” (local Taitung) flavor fills the air, accompanied by a gentle breeze as everyone hums and sings along — the simplest yet happiest form of enjoyment.

▲ The site exudes a sense of history and the passage of time. (Photo/IG@wagamama.gProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Also known as the New East Sugar Factory Cultural Park, Dulan Sugar Factory is located in Dulan Village, Taitung County. Its entrance can be found at the 146-kilometer mark of Provincial Highway 11, surrounded by mountains and water, neighboring the vast Pacific Ocean and continuous mountain ranges, resembling an idyllic retreat filled with a sense of historical nostalgia.

▲ Strong indigenous elements appear throughout the park. (Photo/IG@angus811126Provided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

During the Japanese colonial period, Dulan Sugar Factory was a privately-run brown sugar manufacturing plant. It was bombed during World War II and officially ceased operations in 1991. After years of abandonment, under Taitung County Government’s policy to revitalize unused spaces, it was actively transformed into a cultural park jointly operated by artists. Green spaces and recreational facilities were added, allowing creative shops to set up shop and providing space for artistic and cultural performances.

▲ The chimney stands even more majestic against a backdrop of blue skies, white clouds, and layered mountains. (Photo/IG@nian0602Provided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Japanese-style wooden houses, offices, flagpoles, and factories are still preserved on-site, repurposed into cafes, homestays, and an Amis traditional culture museum.The most iconic structure in the park, and also the landmark of Dulan Village, is the“chimney”, standing tall amidst a beautiful mountainous backdrop. On a day with clear blue skies and white clouds, it looks just like a beautiful painting.

▲ The small houses at Dulan are star attractions where travelers love to take a break. (Photo/IG@selinayu65Provided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

▲ The abandoned factory makes for great ruin-themed photos. (Photo/IG@a.shun__Provided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

In addition to the must-visit chimney,“Dulan Sugar Factory Cafe”is a café brimming with strong Japanese-style charm,“Good Display”is a pioneering arts and crafts shop that, as the name suggests, showcases well-curated items. Its standout creation—the Taitung Elementary School backpack that caused a sensation a few years ago—is one of its most iconic works.“Under the Chimney”is an authentic stir-fry and combo dish restaurant.“Taitung Little House”serves delicious light meals and is the least conspicuous yet most popular spot in the park.“Siky Woodcarving Studio”transforms driftwood into something magical, showcasing the captivating charm of wood carving. These shops may seem ordinary, but they bring rich vitality to the park, making them its most valuable assets.

▲ Many artistic graffiti can be seen inside the Taitung Sugar Factory. (Photo/IG@kathyho1204Courtesy. Please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement.)

Next time you visit Taitung, be sure to put the Taitung Sugar Factory on your must-visit list to enjoy the most genuine, unpretentious art, experience the optimistic character of the locals, and if you have time, stay to appreciate local music—you’re sure to feel a unique ripple in your heart.

▲ Here, you’re surrounded by art no matter where you go. (Photo/IG@z63112776Courtesy. Please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement.)

Taitung Sugar Factory (Xindong Sugar Factory Cultural Park)
Address: No. 61, Dulan Village, Donghe Township, Taitung County
Phone: 089-531212
Opening Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00–17:00 (Some shops are open on weekdays; a regular concert is held at the café every Saturday at 20:00)