The Yi-Wei Hakka War Cultural Festival (乙未客家戰役文化季) is held every May and June in Taoyuan’s Pingzhen and Longtan regions to help the public learn about the brave “Yimin,” a collective phrase that refers to Hakka volunteers who formed militias to protect their hometowns during the 1895 Japanese invasion of Taiwan.

The Yi-Wei War, usually known as the Japanese Invasion of Taiwan, took place in 1895. After Taiwan was ceded to Japan by the Qing Dynasty through the Treaty of Shimonoseki, a conflict between the Empire of Japan and Taiwan’s armed forces broke out. The Japanese aimed to take control of the island, while Taiwanese forces strongly resisted the occupation attempt.
 

Historically, it was the largest scale of warfare to take place on Taiwanese soil. Violent clashes arose throughout the island, and numerous fighters, including local Hakka militia, engaged in fierce combats. These fearless warriors sacrificed themselves to protect their hometowns. To acknowledge their bravery and determination, Zhongyi Temples were built in Taoyuan’s Pingzhen and Longtan.
 

The Yi-Wei Hakka War Cultural Festival aims not only to boost local tourism, but also to remember the spirit of resistance of the Yimin and their defense of the homeland. To commemorate this battle history, the Taoyuan City Government holds annual activities including a dragon boat competition, light shows, Hakka concerts, history and heritage tours, exhibitions of local agricultural products, and fun fairs.
 

More information on this year’s edition can be found on the official website.