Old warehouses transformed into IG hotspots: Taitung’s two cultural sugar mills

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Taiwan has many long-established factories and buildings. Over the years and with the changing times, many industries and their prosperity have faded, eventually turning into tourist attractions. Here are two recommended sugar mills in Taitung that not only boast historical factory buildings and equipment, but also feature installation art, shops, and markets. The once old sugar mill areas have been reborn as cultural and artistic zones, showcasing new life.

1. Taitung Sugar Mill

The rise and fall of Taitung Sugar Mill witnesses the development history of Taitung. From the sugar refinery during the Japanese colonial period to the current Taitung Sugar Mill and pineapple factory, it was shut down in 1996 due to environmental changes, and in 2004 it was redeveloped into the Tung Sugar Original Factory. In addition to adding many landscape public installation artworks, it also invited many craft workshops to set up shop, making it one of the important hubs for Taitung’s cultural and creative development.

In addition to many distinctive workshops, the surrounding area of the mill also features creative landscape iron sculpture art decorations, combining local art and cultural characteristics. The original air-raid shelters have also been preserved and restored. Currently, Taitung Sugar Mill is one of the attractions along the Taitung Mountain-Sea Iron Horse Trail, offering a distinctive site rich in both historical and cultural ambiance.

2. Taitunglan Sugar Mill