The southernmost part of the country, surrounded by mountains and facing the sea, boasts diverse landforms, rich culture, and abundant local produce. This year, Pingtung County Government tried a new approach by collaborating schools with communities to develop 6 distinctive tour routes that highlight local features. Visitors are invited to step into indigenous villages, try canyoning and archery, and savor regional delicacies — experiencing Pingtung from a fresh perspective.
This learning travel itinerary breaks away from the traditional summer-only schedule, with each community offering year-round package tours. Visitors can go treasure hunting along Yanban Lane, explore tropical rainforests, and even visit Hakka settlements to experience the connection between water and residents. These 6 routes take travelers through northern Pingtung’s indigenous villages, Wugoushui, and agro-fishing ecological areas.
Wu Lixue, Deputy Magistrate of Pingtung County, said that this itinerary planning aims to let schools and communities take the lead. Through local guided tours, participants can become familiar with the land where they grew up, allowing culture to quietly take root in their hearts. This subtle influence remains, no matter what careers they pursue in the future or where they live — the bond with their hometown will always endure.
The Mudan Township Community Development Association, no stranger to hosting study tour groups, has previously led schoolchildren from Taipei into the stone house ruins of the tribe. During these visits, they also learned about mountain plants and the knowledge used in hunting. You Huizhen, the association’s secretary-general, said the study tours are integrated with the curriculum of Shimen Elementary School, where elementary students act as guides. Before giving explanations, they must first get to know their own tribe and share their hometown stories through conversations.
Shi Shizhi, principal of Jianguo Elementary School, said that these itineraries are not limited to the summer vacation but are tailored to group visitors. Tours of varying durations and group sizes can be arranged, ranging from half-day trips to 3-night, 4-day in-depth tours. Traveling provides a fun way to learn and gives families a chance for shared growth experiences.
(China Times)