Innovative maps offer fresh take on Taiwan

2015-01-09

A series of eye-catching maps drafted by undergraduate students from National Taipei University of Technology is providing unique insights into Taiwan and highlighting its reputation as a land of many charms.

Unveiled Jan. 6 by the NTUT Department of Industrial Design, the 31 maps cover such themes as haunted sites, railways, surfing beaches, and produce and snacks. They are part of an exhibition running until Jan. 10 at the university.

The brainchild of associate professor Zheng Meng-cong and lecturer Chuang Wen-yi, the charts represent an attempt by the department to change the way locals and visitors visualize Taiwan.

“Maps tend to be based on administrative boundaries, climate and geography,” Zheng said. “We decided to turn this staid approach on its head by employing creative themes to show what Taiwan is really like.”

Chen Yi-jie, who created the supernatural-themed map, has long entertained otherworldly interests and enjoys reading ghost stories and watching mystery programs on TV. Her chart features 12 of the most famous haunting sites on the island. These include Takeng Scenic Area in Taichung City, where a shadowy girl in red is alleged to frequent, and the Liu’s Residence in Minhsiung Township, Chiayi County, where the sounds of weeping are said to be heard at midnight.

Equally fascinating is a map by Lin Yi-hsin setting out Taiwan’s many railway lines and distinctive stations. Months in the making, the chart involved Lin travelling the nation by train and documenting the 100 scenic sites recommend by Taiwan Railways Administration.

Also certain to prove popular is a map by Song Wei-chen of the island’s top eight surfing spots. His chart features all the information an enthusiast could wish for, including geological features, landmarks, wave types and local delicacies.

But Turkish student Yunus Emre Yilmaz’s map of Taiwan’s regional produce and snacks is the one most likely to win favor with all and sundry. Ranging from smoked duck in Yilan County and sun cakes in Taichung City to pineapple cake in Taipei City, the chart includes photographs and Turkish translations.

According to NTUT, postcard replicas of the maps are on sale at the university, with proceeds going toward financing a full-sized commercial print run.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=226017&CtNode=413)