How bent mailboxes became symbols of Taiwan (6 photos)

There are two funny mailboxes in Taipei - they stand side by side and are cutely tilted to the side. Just looking at them makes you smile, but they actually have quite a touching story behind them.





Typically, all mailboxes in Taiwan, although painted in bright colors, are placed upright. But no one has intended to straighten these for many years.



This is what classic mailboxes in the country should look like

The history of “mailboxes that make you smile” is even written on a memorial plaque nearby. And the people of Taiwan themselves love to take photographs of them for social networks, it is believed that this will bring resilience in any future adversities in life. "Nothing can erase your smile."

By the way, the colors indicate the type of mail. Red is for express mail, and green is for regular domestic mail.





Yes, some Thais dress very... Independently, let's call it that.

What's the story behind the bent boxes?

It is told on a sign in several languages - Japanese, Chinese and English.

The sign on behalf of the mailboxes reads:

“On August 8, 2015, Typhoon Soudelor struck Taiwan. As a result, the sign hit us on the head so painfully that we bent over. It hurt so much that we could no longer straighten up. But still we did not fall, we survived!



How nice that they decided to make a sign in three languages at once

We must accept life as it is. I think our adversity even made us look more unique! Have we inspired you? Take a photo with us to remind yourself that we are all survivors and can survive no matter what.”

When people read this sign, they always smile because it is a simple and touching message about resilience. So, in essence, “funny mailboxes” make a person smile twice.



Taipei residents often take photos with boxes and make stylish collages on Instagram.

The first time is when he sees their funny appearance. The second time, more deeply and understandingly, when he delves into their history. Thanks to the authorities for deciding not to demolish the damaged boxes, but making them literally a symbol of the city that survived the typhoon. After all, many still remember that natural disaster of 2015.

Cute mailboxes are one of the main “folk” attractions of Taipei. The very thing that has become part of the general cultural code of the Thais. And if you want to feel the spirit of a foreign country, these are the pearls that are worth hunting for.



Behind a seemingly simple bent box, there is an entire street culture and the memory of a tragedy that shapes the spirit of the city.

So take note. Plus, it’s never a bad idea to look at someone else’s example of resilience and be inspired.