Taishan District was formerly known as the 'Barbie Town' due to the concentration of factories producing dolls for Mattel.
During the peak years, over 8,000 local residents were employed by doll manufacturing plants in Taishan.
The museum collection includes rare, original doll molds used during the local production era.
The doll industry in Taishan significantly contributed to Taiwan's rapid economic growth during the mid-20th century.
The Taishan Doll Museum showcases the historical significance of the doll manufacturing industry that fueled the local economy of Taishan District from the 1960s to the 1980s. Located on the fourth floor of the Taishan Library building, the museum preserves the legacy of the neighborhood, which was once a major global production hub for Barbie dolls. Visitors can view a large collection of vintage Barbies and other representative dolls crafted during the height of the local industry. The exhibits provide insight into the manufacturing processes, assembly line techniques, and the socioeconomic impact of doll production on Taishan families. The facility serves as a cultural repository for the district's industrial heritage.
The central display cases featuring the vintage Barbie collection provide the most iconic photographic backdrops.
Combine your visit with a trip to the Taishan library on the lower floors.
Check the museum's official website for rotating exhibitions, as they occasionally feature temporary displays from local artists.
Ensure you have a mobile device ready to translate exhibit descriptions if you are not fluent in Traditional Chinese.
Do not expect a high-tech, interactive multimedia museum; it is a compact, traditional collection-based exhibition.
Closed on Mondays and national holidays.
Maintain a quiet volume and refrain from touching the displays or display cases.
