Wang, Chun-Kai (王俊凱)

Chun-Kai Wang at Zhishanyan Huiji Temple on April 16th, 2024

Wang Chun-Kai's path to becoming the director of Zhishanyan Huiji Temple is quite unique. Originally from Wugu in New Taipei, he left as a young teenager and returned to Taipei many years later to pursue his graduate degree. Although Mr. Wang studied horticulture in college, he rediscovered his interested in traditional folk activities and rituals that he'd had as a child. He went on to pursue his graduate studies in Folk Art at National Taipei University. He recalls how his friend, who used to work at the temple, happened to ask if he was interested in an open position 11 years ago. He accepted the job and stayed on since.

"So, even though I am not originally from [Shilin], I have developed a strong emotional connection to it. I come here every day, and my life revolves around this area. I do my best to preserve these traditional cultures."

Although Taipei is a very modern place, its culture still appeals to Mr. Wang, as it preserves many traditional elements more so than many other places. This might be because “beneath its modern exterior, its traditions are preserved by a group of... more traditional people, or those who wish to keep these things alive."