By Anand Shah | December 18, 2024

When I first heard about Rainbow Village in Taichung, Taiwan, I wasn’t sure what to expect—a quirky Instagram hotspot or something truly special? It turned out to be both and so much more. As soon as I stepped into this kaleidoscopic wonderland, it felt like entering a dream, a place where history, art, and resilience collide to create magic.

Nestled in the Nantun District, Rainbow Village is the handiwork of Huang Yung-Fu, fondly known as “Rainbow Grandpa.” His mission was simple yet profound: to save his fading military dependents’ village from demolition. Armed with just a paintbrush, this former soldier brought the walls, alleys, and buildings to life with vibrant murals of animals, people, and whimsical patterns. What began as a humble effort to preserve his home has become a global attraction, drawing travellers from every corner of the world.

A Stroll Through the Village

As I wandered through the alleys, every corner told a story. Cheerful paintings of pandas, flying fish, and giant sunflowers covered every inch of the walls. It wasn’t just art; it was Grandpa Huang’s life, his memories, and his vision of joy splashed onto the canvas of an entire village. Despite being small—more like a cluster of a few houses—the experience felt enormous, immersive, and heartwarming.

I had heard that parts of the murals had been vandalised recently and that urban development had changed the surrounding vibe, but Rainbow Grandpa’s spirit still shines through. Even at 101 years old, he occasionally visits the site, greeting visitors with a smile as bright as his paintings.

Perfect for Everyone (Especially Instagram!)

Rainbow Village is perfect for art lovers, culture enthusiasts, and photographers. It’s an absolute gem for Instagram enthusiasts too—every wall here is a perfect backdrop! Families with kids will love the playful vibe, while travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s post-war history will appreciate its poignant backstory.

Quick Guide for Travel Experts

For travel planners in India looking to create an unforgettable Taiwan itinerary, Rainbow Village should be a must-stop. Its location is just a 45-minute drive from downtown Taichung, easily accessible by taxi or public bus.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Cost: Entry is free, though donations are welcomed to support its maintenance.
Nearby Attractions: Pair it with a visit to the Gaomei Wetlands or National Taichung Theatre for a well-rounded day.

For Indian travellers, Taiwan is often synonymous with Taipei’s skyscrapers or Taroko Gorge’s dramatic cliffs. But Rainbow Village offers something unique—a colourful dive into Taiwan’s resilience and creativity. It’s an experience that blends history with art in the most unexpected ways.

So, whether you’re planning trips for art enthusiasts, families, or even honeymooners, make sure to add this vibrant gem to their itinerary. Trust me, Rainbow Village isn’t just a destination; it’s a memory waiting to be made.