By / Scenic Spots Family compiled report
Nestled in a valley, this sky tribe is known as Taiwan’s Shangri-La — a secret Atayal paradise surrounded by mountains. It not only boasts an authentic and rich Atayal cultural vibe but also offers breathtaking natural scenery, making it one of the must-visit hidden gems in Taiwan for travelers.
The Huan Shan Tribe at night shines like a pearl among the surrounding mountains. (Photo / jatraveling)
The Huan Shan Tribe was formerly called Sqoyaw (志佳扬社), and during the Japanese colonial period, it was known as Xin She. Located on the upper reaches of the Dajia River in Heping, Taichung, it earned the name “Huan Shan” (Surrounded by Mountains) due to being encircled by high peaks such as Nanhu Mountain and Snow Mountain.
A distant view of the snow-capped Snow Mountain, tinged red. (Photo / jatraveling)
The Huan Shan Tribe has distinctive features in each season, earning reputations such as spring peach and plum blossoms, summer honey pears, autumn red foliage, and winter sweet persimmons. No matter when you visit throughout the year, you can experience the unique beauty it offers.
The Huan Shan Tribe gets its name from being surrounded by high mountains. (Photo / Vidol)
Most residents of the Huan Shan Tribe are Atayal people. Strolling through the area, you can feel a strong Atayal cultural atmosphere, whether it's the various stone carvings, wall murals, or even the statue of Chiang Kai-shek wearing traditional Atayal attire.
A view of the Huan Shan Tribe. (Photo / Mountain National Scenic Area Administration)
Within the tribe, there is an Atayal Cultural Museum founded by Ms. Chan Hsiu-mei, the Atayal Princess. The museum houses artifacts such as looms, facial tattoo photos, bows and arrows, and a Formosan sambar deer head specimen, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the history of the Atayal people and the Huan Shan Tribe.
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