Xiang Ren He Bell and Drum Factory

The development of Xinzhuang began with its river port navigation on the Tamsui River. Convenient transportation brought prosperity to the city, making Xinzhuang one of the fastest-developing areas in northern Taiwan in its early days. During the Japanese colonial period, Xinzhuang continued to thrive, with various folk entertainment activities becoming increasingly vibrant. 'Puppet show nests,' 'theater dens,' and 'theater alleyways' could be seen everywhere on the streets, symbolizing the great flourishing of various opera troupes and temple fair performances. An indispensable prop in these activities was the drum, which could enliven the atmosphere. From then on, the drum-making industry in the Xinzhuang area also began to flourish. Among them, the most well-known drum factory is 'Xiang Ren He Bell and Drum Factory,' founded by Master A-Tu (real name Wang Gui-zhi). His eldest son, Master Wang Xi-kun, inherited the family business and elevated the drum-making craftsmanship to a higher level.