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NMTL | 'Sparkling Encounters: Taiwan-Japan Literary Exchanges'

  • Publish Date:2016-09-13
NMTL | 'Sparkling Encounters: Taiwan-Japan Literary Exchanges'

  • Date: Feb. 4 - Nov. 27, 2016
  • Venue: National Museum of Taiwan Literature
  • Address: No. 1 Zhongzheng Rd., West Central District, Tainan City, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
  • Site: www.nmtl.gov.tw
  • Press Release: available in English


For centuries, Taiwan and Japan have engaged in literary, political, and social competition and collaboration. "Sparkling Encounters: Taiwan-Japan Literary Exchanges” at the National Museum of Taiwan Literature was curated to present how bilateral interactions throughout history have shaped contemporary literature and sentiments.


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Following the end of World War II in 1945, colony-suzerain state relations gave way to equal standings, and both nations embraced political democratization and multi-cultural societies. Moreover, the influence of Japan’s colonization can still be felt today, adding extra depth to contemporary exchanges between Taiwan and Japan.

NMTL | 'Sparkling Encounters: Taiwan-Japan Literary Exchanges'

The exhibition is offered in three sections. "Take A Look" centers on the initial encounters and new experiences; "Think It Over" explores the sparks of impact, competition, and cooperation that stem from regular encounters; and "Fondness" portrays the mixed attitudes toward the cultural legacy of such history.


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The exhibition is timed to coincide with the centennial anniversary of the building housing the literature museum. The building was completed in 1916, and served as the Tainan Prefectural Government during Japanese colonial rule.

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The opening ceremony on Feb. 5 was attended by Kotatsu Nishino (西野幸竜) of Interchange Association, cultural director at the Japanese de facto embassy in Taiwan.