


Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines
About
The Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines offers families an engaging introduction to Taiwan's indigenous cultures through interactive displays and colorful artifacts. Kids can explore traditional clothing, tools, ceremonial items, and hands-on exhibits that bring Taiwan's aboriginal heritage to life, making it an educational and culturally enriching experience.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive displays where kids can try traditional indigenous musical instruments
- ✓Colorful displays of traditional clothing and ceremonial garments from Taiwan's 16 recognized indigenous groups
- ✓Artifact collections including hunting tools, pottery, and everyday items that show how indigenous people lived
- ✓Educational exhibits about indigenous festivals and customs with engaging visual presentations
- ✓Hands-on cultural activities that vary throughout the year
Pro Tips
- 1.The museum is located next to the National Palace Museum, making it easy to visit both in one day, though the indigenous museum is quieter and less crowded.
- 2.English signage is available throughout the museum, but consider downloading a translation app for additional exhibit details that may only be in Mandarin.
- 3.Visit on weekday mornings for the most peaceful experience, as school groups sometimes visit in the afternoons.
- 4.Allow kids to touch the designated interactive exhibits, which include traditional musical instruments and weaving demonstrations.
- 5.Purchase tickets with exact change or use a credit card, as staff English proficiency varies and simpler transactions work best.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday, 9:00-11:00 AM) offer the quietest experience with fewer tour groups. Avoid Monday when the museum is closed, and weekends can be busier with local families.
What to Know
Admission is budget-friendly at around NT$150 for adults and NT$100 for children (roughly $5-6 USD). The museum is accessible via the Shilin MRT station, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be on your feet exploring multiple floors.
Seasonal Notes
The museum is open year-round with consistent hours. Taiwan's rainy season (May through September) makes this an excellent indoor activity option. Special exhibitions and cultural demonstrations may be scheduled during Taiwan's indigenous peoples' festivals.
Follow Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines
Nearby Eats
The nearby Shilin Night Market (10-minute taxi ride) offers countless family-friendly food stalls with local favorites like fried chicken, bubble tea, and fresh fruit. For a sit-down meal, the restaurants around the National Palace Museum area provide kid-friendly options including noodle shops and dumpling restaurants with English menus.
More Activities Near Taipei
National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum houses one of the world's finest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, with over 700,000 treasures spanning 8,000 years of history. While best suited for older children who can appreciate the stunning jade carvings, ancient calligraphy, and intricate porcelain pieces, the museum offers family-friendly audio guides and special children's tours that bring history to life. The famous jade cabbage and meat-shaped stone are particularly captivating for young visitors.
National Taiwan Museum
The National Taiwan Museum offers an excellent introduction to Taiwan's fascinating natural and cultural heritage through hands-on exhibits that captivate young minds. Housed in a stunning historical building near Taipei's 228 Peace Memorial Park, this budget-friendly museum features interactive displays on everything from dinosaur fossils to indigenous cultures, making learning fun and accessible for children.
National Taiwan Science Education Center
The National Taiwan Science Education Center is a massive, multi-floor science wonderland where kids can touch, experiment, and explore everything from physics to biology. With hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and regular workshops, this interactive museum keeps children engaged for hours while sneaking in valuable STEM learning through play.
Taipei Story House
This charming historic Japanese mansion offers a wonderful introduction to Taipei's cultural heritage through interactive exhibits designed with families in mind. Kids can explore the beautifully preserved Tudor-style architecture while participating in hands-on cultural activities, making history come alive in an engaging, accessible way.