'Taiwan Travelogue' rethinks history, colonialism, and identity
The novel 'Taiwan Travelogue' explores the complex historical relationship between Taiwan and Japan during the colonial era. The author discusses how Taiwan's unique perspective on its colonial past is shaped by subsequent political shifts and the influence of China.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing cultural and political tensions in East Asia regarding historical memory and national identity.
TAIPEI, Taiwan — The novel, Taiwan Travelogue, which explores a journey across the island of Taiwan when it was occupied by Japan has stirred up questions about the island's identity and Taiwan's relationships with both its former colonizer Japan and China.
Book News & Features 'Taiwan Travelogue' wins the 2026 International Booker Prize Set in the 1930s, the story follows a young Japanese writer, Aoyama Chizuko, as she travels across the island with her Taiwanese translator Ō Chizuru. Through the power imbalance between the two women, their budding romance, and interactions with Taiwanese and Japanese characters alike, the novel raises questions about how Taiwan views its colonial legacy.
In China, the book has been accused of contributing to what some see as Taiwan glossing over Japan's colonial-era atrocities.
NPR recently spoke with both author Yáng Shuāng-zǐ and translator Lin King about Taiwan, Japan's colonial era and the threat from China.
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