Island Folklore: Taiwanese Tales & Traditions

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

Category: Tradition

Traditions are beliefs, ideas, customs and practices passed down from generation to generation within a community. These include religious or ritualistic practices and often trace their origin to certain folktales, legends or myths.

  • All Eyes and Ears

    All Eyes and Ears

    The Sea Goddess has two loyal attendants who are “all eyes and ears.” This is their story.

  • 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 Tale of Two Cities

    A Tale of Two Cities

    “Three-eight” is both the date of International Women’s Day (March 8) and a very common Taiwanese expression or tease. What’s the connection? Find out here!

  • Matriarch

    Matriarch

    In the ancient homeland of the Amis and Puyuma peoples on Taiwan’s Pacific coast, women once ruled. Learn about these traditional matriarchal societies!

  • Dwarves Who Fell

    Dwarves Who Fell

    From pygmies to dwarves, legends of “little folk” exist all over the world, including Taiwan.

  • Tattooed Faces

    Tattooed Faces

    The Atayal are an ancient Austronesian tribe indigenous to Taiwan. This is their origin story.

  • The Mouse’s Bride

    The Mouse’s Bride

    From a children’s tale: On the 3rd day of the Lunar New Year, the mice welcome their brides.