Island Folklore: Taiwanese Tales & Traditions

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

Category: Sinitic

Han Chinese settlers began arriving in Taiwan in the 1600s. Their stories—passed down in the many distinct Sinitic, Han or Chinese languages of Taiwan—are undeniably central to Taiwanese folklore and culture in general. They include stories born on the island from the experiences of settlers since the 17th century and tales that originated on the continent that were subsequently brought to the island.

  • Old Man’s Tea

    Old Man’s Tea

    An age-old tea ceremony that closes gaps and bridges families and friends in Taiwan.

  • Rice Dumplings

    Rice Dumplings

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

  • The Food Taster

    The Food Taster

    The story of a chieftain who died to give his people lifesaving knowledge.

  • Fire and Water

    Fire and Water

    A catastrophic battle between two elements forces the Mother Goddess to take action.

  • The Mother Goddess

    The Mother Goddess

    The story of the mother goddess who created the first humans.

  • In the Beginning

    In the Beginning

    The tale of the giant born at the beginning of time and subsequently shaped the world.

  • The Great Race

    The Great Race

    A race that determined the 12 signs of the zodiac and forever pitted cats against mice.

  • Red Cloak

    Red Cloak

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

  • In the Shadows

    In the Shadows

    Fairies, genies and demons—Eurasian hinterlands are home to mythical beings, like Taiwan’s “mô-sîn-á.”

  • The Ghost and the Fisherman

    The Ghost and the Fisherman

    Ghost stories are not always scary. This is one characterized by joy, friendship and kindness.