Taiwan is known for its unique blend of traditional and modern culture. And while Taipei is a bustling city with skyscrapers and bustling streets, the Rainbow Village in Taichung offers a different kind of charm. The Rainbow Village is a military dependents’ village in Nantun District, Taichung, Taiwan. It is one of the country’s most colorful and vibrant destinations, attracting locals and tourists alike.
History of the Rainbow Village
The Rainbow Village Taichung (彩虹眷村) was once a typical military dependents’ village. These villages were built in Taiwan in the 1940s to house soldiers and their families. After the Chinese Civil War, these villages were used to house refugees from mainland China. Over the years, these villages have become overcrowded and neglected, and many have been demolished. However, the Rainbow Village is one of the few that has survived.
The Rainbow Village was home to Mr. Huang Yung-Fu, a retired soldier who had lived there for over 20 years. When the government announced plans to demolish the village, Mr. Huang took action. He began painting the walls and buildings of the town with colorful and intricate designs. His artwork quickly gained attention, and soon the town became known as the “Rainbow Village.” Today, the Rainbow Village is a popular tourist destination and a testament to the creativity and resilience of its inhabitants.
Exploring the Rainbow Village
Visitors to the Rainbow Village can expect to be greeted by a riot of colors and patterns. Every inch of the village is covered in Mr. Huang’s artwork, from the walls and fences to the sidewalks and even the public restrooms. The painting combines cartoon characters, animals, and abstract designs. Each piece is unique and reflects Mr. Huang’s whimsical style.
Highlights
One of the highlights of the Rainbow Village is the Rainbow Grandpa’s house. This is Mr. Huang’s home, covered in his artwork inside and out. Visitors can peek inside the house and see Mr. Huang’s studio and some of his artwork.
Several souvenir shops also sell Rainbow Village-themed merchandise, such as postcards, magnets, and keychains. A cafe and a small museum are also dedicated to Mr. Huang’s life and artwork.
From the Taichung High Speed Rail Station, you can reach Rainbow Village by taxi for NT150-200. Coming from Taipei, you can get a discounted HSR ticket to Taichung on Klook. You can also take bus #617 from the station.
From the Taichung city center, you can expect to pay NT250-300 for a taxi. From the north side of Taichung Train Station, take bus #27. Get off at Gancheng Village 6 stop (千城六村站), one stop after Lin Tung University (嶺東科技大學). It takes about an hour, and it’s about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
You can also take bus #56 from Gancheng (干城) or Xinwuri (新烏日) train stations, and it stops right in front of Rainbow Village.
If you are continuing on to Sun Moon Lake, it would be most efficient to head to the Taichung High Speed Rail Station after Rainbow Village to catch the Sun Moon Lake Shuttle bus. Getting the Sun Moon Lake Pass can save money on this journey.
Visiting by car from Taipei, we found it very convenient to stop at Rainbow Village on the way to Sun Moon Lake, since it is just off Highway 1.
You can also rent a scooter or charter a private car for visiting Rainbow Village and other sights in central Taiwan.
Conclusion
Visiting the Rainbow Village is a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s a place that celebrates creativity, resilience, and community. Whether you’re a lover of art or just looking for something different to do in Taichung, the Rainbow Village is a must-see destination.