Meinong's Hidden Gem: Exquisite Hakka Crafts in Kaohsiung
- Bessy
- May 31
- 5 min read
Searching for unique Taiwanese traditional crafts? Look no further than Meinong, a captivating Hakka village nestled in Kaohsiung! Among its many cultural treasures, the oil paper umbrella shines brightest. Though only a handful of workshops endure, one stands out: Guang Jin Sheng (廣進勝). While these intricate creations are increasingly rare, the renowned Guang Jin Sheng (廣進勝) workshop continues to thrive. Passed down through three generations, their unwavering commitment to traditional methods is truly inspiring. I recently had the privilege of experiencing their guided tour, gaining profound insights into their deep-rooted history and dedication. Curious to learn more about this remarkable legacy? Read on!
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Who Are the Hakka People?
As a major ethnic group in Taiwan, the Hakka people constitute nearly 20% of the island's population. You'll find their vibrant communities across various counties, including Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Miaoli, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Hualien.
In southern Taiwan, specifically Kaohsiung and Pingtung, you'll often hear about the "Liudui Hakka" (六堆客家人), literally meaning "Six Fortified Settlements" or "Six Camps." Liudui (六堆) is the collective term for the Hakka concentrated areas in Pingtung and Kaohsiung, not an actual administrative division. Its origins trace back to the Qing Dynasty, when Hakka people self-organized this civilian defense system to protect their homes. Facing a history of migration in search of fertile farming land, these "Six Fortified Settlements" gradually evolved into the core of southern Hakka society and communities. The Liudui region beautifully showcases the strong unity of Hakka communities in Pingtung and Kaohsiung, embodying a distinct cultural identity through their unique customs, language, and way of life.
A Traditional Hakka Home and its Ancestral Hall
Our journey to the oil paper umbrella workshop began with a captivating passage through an ancient archway, leading us into a beautifully preserved Hakka residential area. It is a rare example of a traditional Hakka sanheyuan complex. I felt like stepping into a time machine! Every corner whispered tales of culture and tradition. We were greeted by the owner's wife, who graciously led us into their remarkable ancestral hall.
Our guide shared a profound insight: their ancestors held an unwavering belief in the power of education, even while dedicating themselves to farming. From seeing the plaque hangs at the hall's main entrance, says "Wen Kui". It signifies that the family once had a Juren—a highly esteemed title earned by a successful scholar in the rigorous imperial provincial examinations. The hope was for future generations to bring similar honor and achievement to the entire family.
Interestingly, if you look closely at the central hall, you'll spot carp figures nestled under the eaves in all four corners. In Feng Shui, these carp aren't just decorative; they're powerful symbols of prosperity and wealth accumulation.
Guang Jin Sheng: Crafting Meinong's Iconic Oil Paper Umbrellas
Stepping into the famed Guang Jin Sheng (廣進勝) oil paper umbrella workshop, we met the owner (林榮君), ready to uncover the fascinating history behind these beautiful creations. The workshop itself was a feast for the eyes, adorned with countless finished umbrellas, each a testament to intricate detail and exquisite calligraphy.
The owner shared that the craft's origins in Meinong trace back to a visionary leader who traveled to Guangdong, mastering the art of oil paper umbrella making. Recognizing Meinong's frequent rainfall, he shrewdly identified it as the perfect place to cultivate this unique skill. And he was right! The owner’s dad, Lin Hsiang-lin (林享麟) was the first artisan to learn all phases in Meinong village. During its heyday, Meinong boasted over ten such workshops. Among the various livelihoods of the time, crafting these umbrellas offered the most lucrative income, though it was far from easy. It demanded immense dedication and lengthy apprenticeships to master the diverse skills involved.
The Cultural Significance of Oil Paper Umbrellas
More than just a shield from the sun and rain, the Hakka oil paper umbrella holds surprisingly rich cultural significance! You might be intrigued to learn that in earlier times, these beautiful umbrellas weren't sold in specialized workshops, but often found in jewelry or general goods stores.
Why the unexpected pairing? The pronunciation of "oil paper umbrella" (油紙傘, yóuzhǐsǎn) sounds remarkably similar to "having children" (有子孫, yǒuzǐsūn). This charming linguistic connection made the umbrella a cherished dowry item when a daughter married, symbolizing the parents' hopes for abundant offspring and a prosperous family.
But the symbolism doesn't stop there. In the Hakka language, the word for "umbrella" also conveys the idea of protection from sun or rain, representing maturity and responsibility. This is why, when boys reached the age of 16 and came of age, their parents would present them with an umbrella. It served as a powerful declaration: they were now considered adults, ready to embrace responsibilities, offer protection, and care for their family. As you can see, this isn't just a simple umbrella; it's a profound cultural artifact steeped in Hakka tradition.
Preserving a Legacy: Dedication to Traditional Hakka Umbrellas
In an age of mass-produced goods, the handcrafted oil paper umbrella stands as a testament to enduring tradition. While factory-made umbrellas are ubiquitous and affordable, fewer people opt for these relatively more expensive, artisanal creations. Yet, the owner of the Lin family's Guang Jin Sheng workshop remains steadfast, committed to crafting each umbrella using the exact traditional methods passed down from his father.
As documented in historical records like 《ECHO of Things Chinese》, the meticulous process of making an oil paper umbrella from scratch is clearly laid out. A particularly memorable moment occurred when we asked the owner if he ever worried about his son's income, given the niche nature of traditional crafts. He responded with unwavering confidence: "I told him we must consider this from a broader perspective. This is a valuable traditional craft, irreplaceable by anything else. This is our destiny and our dedication, something we must pass down through generations." His words underscore a powerful commitment to preserving this unique piece of Hakka heritage.
If you're captivated by the rich history and profound cultural significance of Meinong's oil paper umbrellas, why not experience this enchanting craft in person? Plan your visit to Meinong with me and witness the dedication of generations. Discover the artistry, hear the stories, and perhaps even create your own piece of Hakka heritage! Reach out for a personalized tour and let's explore the wonders of Hakka culture together.
Visit Information
Planning your visit to the renowned Guang Jin Sheng (廣進勝) workshop? Here's what you need to know to experience this unique piece of Hakka heritage:
Opening Hours: 09:00 - 17:00 daily
Offerings:
Guided Tour: Dive deep into the history of the oil paper umbrella and explore the traditional Hakka house. (Fee: NTD$500 per group)
DIY Experience: Get hands-on and create your own oil paper umbrella! Reservations are required in advance for this option.
Address: No. 47, Minquan Road, Meinong District, Kaohsiung City. See Google Map
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