The Oulaluz settlement of Taiwu Township sits in the mountains at an elevation of 700 to 900 meters. The Japanese colonial-era relocation policy created a unique historical situation in which an old and a new settlement coexist. The ruins of the old village's stone-slab houses are scattered through the forest, while the new village continues traditional ceremonies and millet cultivation — making this one of the more intact areas of Paiwan cultural preservation in mountainous Pingtung.
Highlights of the Taiwu Paiwan Tribe
During the Japanese colonial period, the Governor-General's Office implemented a mountain relocation policy, requiring the Paiwan people of the Taiwu area to move downhill, which led to the abandonment of the old settlement. However, some community members chose to return to the original site, creating the unusual phenomenon of a dual settlement. The stone-slab walls of the old village still stand among the trees; the weathered slate grain records the living spaces that existed before the relocation.
The new village maintains the core elements of Paiwan traditional culture. The annual millet harvest festival follows ancient customs, and song transmission continues. The 'Taiwu Ancient Chant Chorus' at Taiwu Elementary School holds an important place in the preservation of Taiwan's indigenous music. When visiting the tribe, you must contact the tribal office in advance to confirm whether outside visitors are welcome and to follow tribal etiquette.
How to Make the Most of It
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- Mountain roads require a private vehicle. Enter via Provincial Highway 24 and then the township mountain road — the road is narrow with many bends; do not go at night or in rainy weather.
- No direct public transport. Some tour operators offer half-day indigenous culture tours departing from Pingtung — this is worth considering.
- Tribes typically turn away outside visitors during ceremonies. Confirm before you go to show respect.
Nearby Connections
- Majia Farm and the Taiwan Indigenous Peoples Cultural Park are in neighboring townships; they can be combined into a one-day Pingtung mountain indigenous culture itinerary.
- Sandimen Township's Paiwan pottery studios are about 30 minutes from Taiwu Township, offering a different form of indigenous craft.
Sources: Taiwu Township Office; Council of Indigenous Peoples Cultural Foundation information; facts provided by context. Photos pending Dio's on-site photography.