Lynda's Taiwan-logue

< Visited in Sep 2016 >

Constructed in 1937, the 台中刑務所演武场 was originally used as martial arts training grounds (演武场) and dormitories for Taichung Prison (台中刑務所, later renamed 台中监狱) officers and police. Following the prison's relocation, the premises turned dorms for families of military personnel. In 2004, the city government declared it a historical site, only to experience a fire in 2006 which caused severe damage. Restored based on original design, the venue finally reopened in 2010 and in 2011, renamed Natural Way Six Arts Cultural Centre 道禾六艺文化馆 - inspired by six arts 六艺, the ancient concept of education adopted by Confucius.  

▲ [Map from official FB] The historical landmark houses 4 main zones - 惟和馆 Harmony Hall, 大树(下)剧场 Tree of Life Theatre, 传习馆 Skills Mentors' Area and 心行馆 Heart to Heart Learning Centre. Besides being a venue for bazaars, exhibitions, talks and experiencing archery, calligraphy, kendo (剑道) and more, this place during off-peak or on a weekday is pretty conducive for a leisurely stroll and afternoon tea.   

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1 | 惟和馆 Harmony Hall 
The main (and tallest) building in the premises, the structure takes a regular squarish form, its interior a large hall for martial arts practice. Try spotting the ornamental tile with the chinese character 武 (for martial) on the roof ridge.     

The teahouse at 心行馆 Heart to Heart Learning Centre at 1 side of this main building, to be introduced later. 

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2 | 大树(下)剧场 Tree of Life Theatre
An iconic "100-year" banyan tree (榕树) stands here, though more accurately, it has been rooted since 1895 (even before the landmark was constructed). Though impacted by the 2006 fire, the roots stood firm, allowing the tree a new lease of life. Bazaars and outdoor performances take place here at the central courtyard.    

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3 | 传习馆 Skills Mentors' Area
The length of this 1-storey building frames the "back" of the premises, and is venue to art exhibitions.    

At the back of this building is a small open field, for archery activities. 

A small bamboo grove outside the administration office and public washroom lends a touch of Japanese garden artistry.  

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4 | 心行馆 Heart to Heart Learning Centre
On to this smaller but eyecatching Japanese house framing another side of the premises, a teahouse provides respite for tired legs.     

The teahouse is surrounded by the Japanese-themed garden, offering a lovely view as you enjoy your afternoon tea within. 

A limited menu offering only 3 sets - hot brewed tea, iced brewed tea or coffee. The menu has since been revamped to offer more sets and ala carte snacks and beverages. We were required to place orders at the reception first, before allowed entry (not sure if this still applies). 

Patrons are also required to leave footwear at the doorway before entering the teahouse. 

Hot brewed tea set for 2 persons. We opted for chrysanthemum tea from the 7 available, the small pot serving 2 with refillable hot water. There is also a small portion of chinese snacks.    

A "tea card" has instructions on how to brew your own pot of tea. 

We enjoyed a rather quiet teahouse as there were not many patrons that weekday afternoon. Perhaps typical of such settings, one can effortlessly lose track of time amid the serene ambience, lovely scenery and soothing tea.  

Since my visit, there is now a small retail store and outdoor cafe at the frontyard. I sure hope to revisit for the teahouse (and its new extensive menu), new sights and thematic bazaars.