The majority of the aboriginal population lives in Hualien and Taitung. However, Taoyuan city contains 16 different aboriginal groups. In 2017, their population exceeded 70,000, second only to the Huatung area, making Taoyuan the most populated city for aborigines on the western part of Taiwan. In May 2004, the Indigenous Culture Center was established in Taoyuan City, and has become a gathering point for the aborigines, as well as being listed as one of Taoyuan City's Story Houses.
The Culture Center aims to recreate the aboriginal cultural landmarks. Therefore, the appearance of the building and the surrounding of the square represent different kinds of aboriginal style. Here, visitors can see the totem pole that expresses the aborigines' spirit with beautiful lines, the lookout tower that is used to prevent the invasion of outsiders by the tribal borders and the Rainbow Avenue that has engraved characteristic totem poles from various aboriginal tribes on all sides. Colors of each pole base derive from the costumes of different tribes integrating with the unique landscapes of Taiwan to symbolize the unity of all ethnic groups. Introduction boards introducing each tribe are set up around the square and a map of Taiwan is displayed to show the distribution of different tribes in Taiwan. Visitors will gain a preliminary understanding of the aboriginal culture.
The Culture Center combines the functions of the museum, which displays handicrafts, weaving utensils, aboriginal costumes, hunting knives and many other traditional cultural relics. The cultural relics exhibition room showcases the descriptions of the history in various tribes and their traditional ceremonies. Through detailed text descriptions and old photographs, visitors can understand each tribe's history. Art exhibitions are also held periodically in the museum, which also provides a platform for aboriginal artists to express their tribal cultures. In addition to the static display, visitors can go to resident artists' workshops to participate in guided tours and DIY events. Every Friday and Sunday, visitors can also enjoy the lively aboriginal songs and dance performances from the resident dance group. The annual ceremony will be held here as well.
