The 2009 Nantou City Sand Sculpture Art Festival [2009南投市貓羅溪畔沙雕藝術節] opened on January 17 and runs until February 15.  Located along the Maoluo River, this is the first event of its kind held in central Taiwan.

I guess a handful of local hoodlums had grown tired of simply getting intoxicated, breaking empty liquor bottles on the street, and urinating in public as some of the sculptures were vandalized about a week and a half before the opening of the festival.  Luckily, the damage had been repaired and the works were ready for the opening.

The festival showcases the work of twenty artists.   Adjacent to the sand sculptures exhibit is a driftwood art exhibit.  There is also a stage set-up, but no one was performing or speaking when we went.  There is also plenty of stands for snacks and a section for kids to create their own sculptures.

Looking to drive here?  You can get directions from Google Maps.