Exploring Taiwanese Literature: From 'Taiwan Travelogue' to Other Remarkable Works

‘Taiwan Travelogue’ - The First Mandarin Novel to Win the Booker Prize

The novel 'Taiwan Travelogue' by author Yáng Shuāng-zǐ has made history as the first book in Mandarin to win the prestigious International Booker Prize in 2026. This remarkable work not only offers moments of relaxation but also deeply reflects the cultural values of Taiwan.

Yáng Shuāng-zǐ shares, "Researching the main themes of travel and food in my novel has changed my life in two clear ways: my savings have decreased and my weight has increased." This is a testament to the author's unrelenting passion for gastronomy.

Highlights of the Book

The small joys of life are what make 'Taiwan Travelogue' truly special. The book’s translator, Lin King, mentions, "Personally, I’m not fond of serious historical novels. These stories feel unreal to me because no matter how tough the times are, people always find rays of light and great love."

The narrative unfolds as a travel diary of the fictional character Aoyama Chizuko, who, alongside her companion O Chizuru, explores Taiwan during the Japanese occupation, just before World War II erupts. With a humorous and vivid perspective, the book cleverly raises issues of imperial power and the survival of culture through rich culinary experiences.

Other Must-Read Taiwanese Literary Works

Renowned as one of the most diverse and rich literary landscapes in Asia, Taiwan boasts many other works worth exploring. Here are five books you should check out after reading 'Taiwan Travelogue':

• Stories of the Sahara by Sanmao, translated by Mike Fu: This famous book is a collection of writings about the author's life in the Sahara, infused with the liberating and humorous essence of a Taiwanese writer.
• Ghost Town by Kevin Chen, translated by Darryl Sterk: The story revolves around a gay Taiwanese man returning home after causing a tragedy, vividly capturing the atmosphere of a small town in Taiwan.
• Notes of a Crocodile by Qiu Miaojin, translated by Bonnie Huie: A landmark in lesbian literature, this work explores societal struggles in a prohibitive environment during the late 1980s.
• The Man With the Compound Eyes by Wu Ming-yi, translated by Darryl Sterk: A poignant tale about environmental protection through the journey of a professor and a young man on the fictional island of Wayo Wayo.
• The Boy From Clearwater: Book 1 by Yu Pei-Yun, illustrated by Zhou Jian-Xin, translated by Lin King: This book narrates the life of Tsai Kun-lin, a witness to Taiwan's transition from dictatorship to democracy.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

Vietnamese travelers can visit Taiwan without a visa for stays of up to 14 days. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Hanoi (HAN) to Taipei (TPE) are quite popular, with ticket prices ranging from 4 million to 7 million VND depending on the booking time. Taiwan is famous for its rich culinary scene, so be sure to try street food like dumplings, beef noodles, and bubble tea in areas like Tamsui Street or Shilin Night Market.

While exploring Taiwanese culture, take time to appreciate the rich cultural heritage from the Japanese occupation period to today. Plan a trip that allows you to enjoy both the culture and the outstanding novels of this beautiful country.

Article adapted and edited from: Condé Nast Traveler