Since its establishment, the Cittaslow Taiwan Alliance has been actively promoting the concept of slow living, strengthening domestic and international collaboration, working together to protect the natural environment, preserve cultural heritage, and cultivate a healthy, slow-paced lifestyle.
Through hosting annual conferences, participating in international Cittaslow events, and fostering cross-border exchanges, the spirit of Cittaslow has been deeply rooted in everyday local life, while also highlighting Taiwan’s significant presence and influence on the global Cittaslow stage.
The Cittaslow Taiwan Alliance was officially established in 2017, with its core members comprising the four towns that have received international Cittaslow certification: Fenglin in Hualien, Dalin in Chiayi, Nanzhuang and Sanyi in Miaoli. The alliance also invites other towns and districts with potential to become international Cittaslows to participate. A total of 12 townships and districts have joined as members, working together to promote the Cittaslow philosophy, which emphasizes ecological conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and a healthy, slow-paced lifestyle—laying a solid foundation for the future development of Cittaslow in Taiwan.
Pingtung’s Jhutian Township hosted the inaugural Cittaslow Taiwan Alliance Annual Meeting, successfully pioneering a new model of “slow” tourism by integrating the Cittaslow philosophy into tourism promotion. The event not only deepened public recognition of the slow-living lifestyle, but also drew international attention, leaving a lasting impact on the advancement of the Cittaslow movement in Taiwan.
The second Cittaslow Taiwan Alliance Annual Meeting was held in Chihshang Township, Taitung. The event highlighted Chihshang’s achievements in embracing the Cittaslow lifestyle, seamlessly blending local culture with the spirit of slow living and drawing widespread attention. Through diverse promotional platforms, Chihshang further brought its unique Cittaslow character to the international stage, showcasing its charm and dedication to the world.
The third Cittaslow Taiwan Alliance Annual Meeting was hosted by Sanyi Township, Miaoli. The event not only deepened international collaboration but also further promoted the widespread adoption of Cittaslow values throughout Taiwan. During the meeting, the leadership transition of the Cittaslow Taiwan Alliance was successfully completed, with Sanyi Township Chief Lü Ming-chung officially assuming the role of the Alliance’s second-term chairperson, bringing new energy and direction to the organization.
The fourth Cittaslow Taiwan Alliance Annual Meeting was held in Nanzhuang, Miaoli, with special guest Professor Bon Sohn, Vice President of Cittaslow International and Chair of Cittaslow Korea, who shared Korea’s successful experiences in implementing Cittaslow practices. His presence fostered deeper exchange and cooperation between Taiwan and Korea. In the same year, Jhutian in Pingtung successfully obtained Cittaslow certification, becoming the fifth certified Cittaslow in Taiwan. This milestone marked another highlight in the Alliance’s development and reflected the growing integration of Cittaslow principles into local communities.
Chihshang Township once again hosted the 5th Annual Meeting, integrating the event with the Chihshang Autumn Harvest Festival to showcase its Cittaslow spirit as a model for Taiwan. During the meeting, Chihshang also established a sister city relationship with Yesan County in South Korea, further promoting cooperation and exchange among international Cittaslow communities.
The 6th Annual Meeting of the Cittaslow Taiwan Alliance will be held on an outlying island for the first time, with Dongyin Township in Lienchiang County serving as the host. This event will highlight the island township’s commitment to the Cittaslow philosophy and its efforts to align with international Cittaslow standards.
