Island Folklore: Taiwanese Tales & Traditions

An online repository of Taiwan’s folktales, history, legends, myths and traditions.

Category: Legend

Legends are a community’s traditional stories that are popularly regarded as history or are based on historical events. These tales often elaborate on the lives of famous figures of the past and the legendary times in which they lived.

  • Rice Dumplings

    Rice Dumplings

    More than just a festival treat, rice dumplings are a tasty snack that the Taiwanese have loved for centuries!

  • The Old Chieftain

    The Old Chieftain

    The story of an old Taiwanese chieftain who dared to march against the Empire of Japan.

  • The White Stag

    The White Stag

    A mysterious, otherworldly guide leads unsuspecting Thao hunters to a new homeland.

  • Red Cloak

    Red Cloak

    As newcomers settled in Taiwan, they faced the terror of the island’s notorious headhunters.

  • Martyrs

    Martyrs

    Memories of martyrs help a struggling people find their identity in a brave new world.

  • Trail of Tears

    Trail of Tears

    This “hill song” records memories of the first Hakkas arriving in Taiwan in the 1600s.

  • Dragon Boats

    Dragon Boats

    The history and activities of the popular festival that marks the coming of summer in Taiwan!

  • The Silent Maiden

    The Silent Maiden

    The Sea Goddess is the protector of Taiwan. She was once a real person and this is her legend.

  • A Robin Hood Tale

    A Robin Hood Tale

    This is the legendary tale of a petty criminal who became an outlaw and a folk hero in Taiwan.

  • The Pirate King

    The Pirate King

    In the late 1600s, the pirate king, Koxinga, ruled over the island of Taiwan. Today, he is a Taiwanese folk hero and this is his story.