TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Construction of the second exhibition hall at the National Palace Museum Southern Branch in Chiayi County has been delayed by about a year, with completion now scheduled for 2028.
The NT$3.2 billion (US$106.7 million) project will feature expanded exhibition space, including a large exhibition hall with a 7-meter-high ceiling, art restoration facilities, and a roughly 992-square-meter restaurant, per UDN.
The project was originally scheduled for completion in 2027. However, delays were caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, rising global material costs, and three unsuccessful bids for the expansion work.
Despite the setbacks, the project is moving forward, with much of the exterior of the new exhibition hall completed. A public hearing was recently held to begin the process of soliciting a renovate-operate-transfer proposal for the restaurant area outside the hall.
The hearing attracted local residents and businesses interested in operating the facility. Local supporters said catering and recreational services could raise the museum's profile while generating additional tourism revenue.
The restaurant will also benefit from the nearby Chiayi Science Park, which is expected to host new TSMC semiconductor fabs. The museum expansion and new science park facilities are expected to contribute to development in the surrounding area.
Unlike the dining facilities in the main building, the restaurant in the second hall will allow the use of open flames, potentially providing more diverse dining options. Museum officials said several features have already been determined for the new building.
For example, the new hall's architectural design draws inspiration from traditional Chinese landscape paintings, with emerald green tones and elements reflecting artifacts in the museum's collection. The design also echoes the lakeside scenery of the main building, marking a new chapter as the Southern Branch celebrates its 10th anniversary, per UDN.
The expansion will include an international exhibition hall, a national treasure hall, and a digital exhibition space. A restoration area will allow visitors to observe the conservation and maintenance of national treasures. A covered walkway and cafe will connect the two buildings, offering visitors lake views and space for performances.
Although the opening has been postponed, local officials and residents hope the expansion will boost tourism and support economic development in southern Taiwan.
