Food is a part of life; literature, on the other hand, preserves the memories of that life.

Writings on Taoyuan’s cuisine can be found scattered across different eras and literary genres. Classical literature from the Japanese colonial period depicts tea, sweet potatoes, and local customs; after the war, as diverse ethnic groups settled in Taoyuan, the culinary experiences of military dependents’ villages, Hakka, Minnan, Indigenous peoples, and new immigrants gradually became important themes in novels, essays, and poetry. Meanwhile, Taoyuan’s rich tradition of children’s literature uses everyday experiences—such as fruits, rice dishes, and home-cooked meals—to help children connect with the land and their hometown.

Following the developmental trajectory of Taoyuan’s culinary literature, this exhibition guides visitors through various literary genres, authors’ works, and culinary memories to taste the flavors within the text. It invites visitors to experience how food becomes an integral part of local culture, family bonds, and life experiences, rediscovering the rich tastes of life in Taoyuan.