The much anticipated Zuojhen Fossil Park, Taiwan's only fossil-themed park, held its grand opening on May 12 and welcomed over 30,000 visitors on the same day. With over 4,600 items in its collection, this is the museum with the largest amount of local fossils in Taiwan. Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che reminded the public that since the park has limited space, huge crowds may affect visiting experience; thus he invited Tainan citizens to visit the park on weekdays or other holidays since they have free admission until end of May.
The brand new Zuojhen Fossil Park encompasses the original Tsailiao Fossil Museum, Museum of Natural History, and Guangrong Elementary School. Covering an area of approximately 9,000 sq. meters, the five major exhibition spaces serve scientific archeology and educational purposes, provide tourism and recreational functions, and showcase the unique natural and historical aspects of this "hometown of fossils". In honor of the event, the significant fossils of "Rhinoceros sinenbsis hayasakai" and the "Zuozhen man" returned to Tainan for the first time. Originally stored at National Taiwan Museum, Tainan City government borrowed the two precious original specimens that put Zuozhen on the archeology map. The specimens will be on display for a limited time at the Fossil Park.
Another highlight at the press conference was the premiere of the Parks' mascots: Kiki the Snub-nosed Langur, and Koko the "Rhinoceros sinenbsis hayasakai" ancient rhino. The names of the two cute mascots come from the sound "ki-ki" and "ko-ko" which are made when tools hit the rocks and gravel when archeologists are excavating fossils. As the "reverse clock" begins to tick, KiKi and KoKo travel from the far past to the present, ready to go on archeology missions and explore the palaeobios playground with guests.
The Fossil Park also celebrated Mother's Day and families by inviting Paper Windmill Theater to perform at the opening event, bringing a force of lively energy into the park of ancient creatures. The Park will gradually roll out various exciting events and activities during the grand opening period. The public can expect to take part in outdoor expeditions (found only here in Taiwan), experience fossil excavating, and listen to science lectures.
For more information, please visit: https://fossil.tnc.gov.tw.