Traveling to Sun Moon Lake is perfect for a side trip to Checheng and Jiji. This time we visited the "Shuili Snake Kiln Ceramic Cultural Park" in Shuili. We originally thought it was just a spot to see the old kiln and take photos, but after visiting, we realized it was much more.
Although the park is not large, it offers far more than expected. It preserves a complete century-old snake kiln, a ceramics museum, and allows visitors to try pottery kneading, wheel throwing, and even browse the ceramics shop for treasures. It's ideal for families with children and especially appealing for those who enjoy hands-on activities.
Our whole family spent nearly half a day here. The kids were completely absorbed in playing with clay, while the adults enjoyed taking photos and browsing ceramics. It unexpectedly became the most memorable stop on our Sun Moon Lake trip.
Shuili Snake Kiln is about a 10-minute drive from Checheng Station and not far from Sun Moon Lake, making it a convenient stop.
The park is nestled in the mountains with a quiet, scenic route. Upon arrival, you immediately feel a strong nostalgic atmosphere.
📍Attraction Info｜Shuili Snake Kiln Ceramic Cultural Park
Address: No. 16, Huiyao Road, Dingkan Village, Shuili Township, Nantou County
Phone: 049-2770967
Hours: Thursday to Monday 08:30–17:30 (Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays; open on Tuesdays during winter and summer breaks)
Transportation:
By Car: Set navigation to "Shuili Snake Kiln Ceramic Cultural Park." There is a paid parking lot outside for cars; tour buses should park at the Huiyao Road intersection lot.
Public Transport: Take the Taiwan Railway Jiji Line to "Shuili Station" or "Checheng Station," then transfer to Nantou Bus or taxi for about 10-15 minutes.
Entry requires a ticket, which comes with park discount coupons (including ceramics discount and dining coupons).
※Note: Tickets are not fully redeemable for on-site purchases!
Shuili Snake Kiln Ticket Info:
Full Ticket (Adult): NT$160
Discount Ticket (Concession): NT$140 (for students 7+, seniors 65+)
Compassion Ticket (Disabled/Child): NT$120 (for children 4-6, disability card holders and one companion)
Free: Children under 3, Shuili Township residents (with ID)
Walking into the park feels like traveling through time. There are no flashy decorations, but many old buildings and ceramic elements remain. Stone paths, red brick walls, wooden structures, and green plants create a comfortable atmosphere.
Compared to popular tourist spots, this place lacks commercial vibes and has a warmth accumulated over time. You can leisurely admire large ceramic artworks, and many corners are great for photos—the camera shutter never stops.
The century-old snake kiln is the park's highlight. Seeing a real snake kiln for the first time is impressive. Built along the hillside, the long winding structure truly resembles a giant snake resting on the slope.
With nearly a hundred years of history, it is also an important Taiwanese ceramic cultural asset. The park preserves the wood-fired kiln for visitors to experience early pottery culture up close.
Standing on the second floor gives a full view of the kiln, conveying a sense of history that photos can't fully capture.
Besides the century-old snake kiln, there are many other spaces worth exploring:
Snake Kiln Museum: Displays early pottery tools, ceramics, and kiln history, revealing the development of the pottery industry.
Lin Guolong Ceramic Art Museum: Exhibits ceramic creations ranging from traditional to modern styles.
Ceramics Sales Area: Bowls, plates, tea sets, vases, and cups in abundance.
Tutu Dessert Shop: A place to rest with drinks and ice cream after exploring.
The kids' favorite was the pottery experience! We recommend getting a number at the ceramics classroom upon arrival. Weekends are busier, so expect longer waits.
Prices follow on-site announcements. Our prices that day:
* Clay Experience: NT$390 per session
* Wheel Throwing Experience: NT$590 per session
* Includes glazing and firing
* Self-pickup or home delivery available (shipping NT$180)
Professional pottery instructors provide friendly guidance on-site. Even complete beginners or children don't need to worry about failing.
Both adults and children can enjoy authentic pottery fun here.
The seemingly simple actions require skill—apply a bit too much force and the piece immediately tilts. The children ended up covered in clay, but laughter filled the air.
The whole process was truly enjoyable.
The best value here is buying one clay session for double the fun! Not only can you experience wheel throwing to shape your own vessel, but you can also freely create with another piece of clay to make small accessories. Unlocking two activities at once is super worthwhile!
After several weeks of patient waiting, we finally received our handmade pottery pieces! The unboxing moment was full of surprises. Seeing the once-soft clay transformed by firing into a unique, warm vessel made just for us or the kids brought an indescribable sense of emotion and accomplishment.
Using it to serve food or enjoy hot tea feels especially warm—this is truly the best souvenir from our trip!
After arranging a half-day visit to Shuili Snake Kiln, there are many great nearby attractions to combine into a full-day Nantou itinerary:
Checheng Wood Industry Exhibition Hall / Checheng Old Street: Stroll through the most beautiful railway town, enjoy the dreamy log pond scenery, and experience Japanese-style wood culture.
Shuili Food Tour: Try the famous local meatball in Shuili town, paired with Q-elastic meatballs and bone soup.
Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area: Follow Provincial Highway 21 to Xiangshan Visitor Center or Toushe Basin, and cycle around the lake to enjoy the mountains and water.
Visiting Shuili Snake Kiln completely changed my previous stereotypes about traditional old kilns! It perfectly combines traditional wood-fired culture with modern cultural creativity, leisure, and dining.
Whether you want to bring kids for a hands-on pottery DIY experience, buy quality ceramic pieces, or simply find a quaint environment for a walk and photos, Shuili Snake Kiln is a great addition to your Nantou Sun Moon Lake itinerary!
■ More Nantou Travel & Food:
https://eeooa0314.tw/blog/categories/9003734048
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Everyone's travel, attraction, and dining experiences vary. This article is based on personal experience and is for reference only. Please evaluate whether to visit based on your own judgment.
We recommend checking information before departure to ensure a smoother and more enjoyable trip!