Lishan Arts Festival Brings Coffee, Films & Karaoke to Highlands

In Taiwan’s rugged mountain highlands, access to everyday urban pastimes like a casual movie or open-mic karaoke isn’t just limited—it’s practically nonexistent. For the residents of Lishan, a rural township more than 100km from downtown Taichung, weekend entertainment means something entirely different. That changed dramatically one evening when the Taichung City Cultural Affairs Bureau brought a surprising bundle of joy directly to their doorstep.

Last night’s Lishan Arts Festival delivered three simple but impactful offerings to the remote community: free coffee, a heartfelt film screening, and a lively karaoke session—proving that cultural connection doesn't require big budgets, just big heart.

A Culture Bus Rolls Into the Mountains

The festival transformed the remote mountain settlement into a temporary cultural hub. Using a mobile “cultural travel box”—essentially an action-style elder leisure service vehicle—the bureau set up shop at both the Huan Shan Christian Presbyterian Church and the iconic Lishan Hotel. Attendees were treated to complimentary coffee, light refreshments and on-the-spot blood pressure checks, creating an atmosphere of warmth usually missing from high-altitude life.

A Screening That Sparked Tears and Cheers

The highlight for many was the film 'Unbeatable 18' , a documentary following elderly riders who, despite battling serious illness, loss and cognitive decline, refuse to abandon the dreams of their youth. The emotional story resonated deeply: over 100 audience members responded with everything from quiet tears to mutual hugs, and even laughter among younger viewers vowing to support one another with cries of 'We have to keep going together!'.

Highland Hospitality From Father Gao

Adding to the community spirit was Father Kao Fu-nan, a Catholic priest from Nantun who has lived in Taiwan for 22 years. With his chocolate-colored skin and fluent Mandarin and Taiwanese, he quickly connected with local children. This marked his third visit to Lishan, where he expressed deep admiration for 'the warmth and care of Taiwanese people.' Father Gao shared a vision of founding a dedicated children’s care center in the area, extending the love and support even further.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lishan Arts Festival?

The Lishan Arts Festival is a mobile cultural event organized by the Taichung City Cultural Affairs Bureau, bringing free coffee, film screenings, and karaoke to the remote mountain residents of Lishan, located over 100km from downtown Taichung.

What film was shown at the Lishan Arts Festival?

The festival screened 'Unbeatable 18' , a heartwarming documentary about elderly individuals who continue pursuing their lifelong dreams despite facing serious health issues, loss, and cognitive decline.

How did the audience react to the film?

Over 100 attendees had emotional reactions ranging from tears to laughter, with many hugging each other or pledging mutual support, particularly younger audience members who shouted encouragement to 'keep going together.'

Who is Father Gao Fu-nan?

Father Gao is a Catholic priest from Nantun, Taiwan, who has lived in Taiwan for 22 years. He visited Lishan for the third time to engage with residents and expressed interest in establishing a future children’s care center in the area.

What services were offered at the event besides the film?

Alongside the movie, the event provided free coffee, tea snacks, and on-site blood pressure checks through a mobile cultural service vehicle stationed at Huan Shan Church and Lishan Hotel.

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