Explore Wutai Township in the Mountains – A Fun Day Trip to This Charming Town

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family / Compiled Report
 
Situated in the Central Mountain Range, Pingtung’s Wutai Township boasts lofty and rugged terrain with an average elevation of over 1,000 meters, and is the homeland of the Rukai people. Take a weekend and bring your family to explore Wutai!

For the villagers of Wutai, Dalapayang was a true noble and great chief, as evidenced by the large banyan tree outside the house, the standing stone markers, and the wood carvings under the eaves. The chief’s residence always has a spacious courtyard where villagers would gather in front of the house when important tribal matters needed to be announced by the chief.

With its magnificent exterior, this splendid sanctuary in Wutai Township embodies both “humanistic art” and “religious ambiance.” Established in 1966, it took the villagers three years to build using traditional Rukai architectural frameworks, with locally sourced slate and large stones as materials. Entirely designed and constructed by the villagers themselves through manual labor, this church resembles a small castle. Its arched gate and angel statues showcase the spirit and cooperative labor of the Rukai people. The entire structure blends modern aesthetics with unique Rukai cultural elements, making it a classic piece of public art.

Located within the Wutai tribal area, Slate Lane offers a delightful experience at every step. The stone-paved path is lined with railings shaped like pottery pots, Rukai cultural wall reliefs, and uniquely styled homestays. The Slate Cultural Museum and Wutai Presbyterian Church showcase the distinctive features of slate architecture to the fullest. Being here feels like entering an open-air museum, making it a must-visit attraction in the Wutai tribal area.

Located in Wutai Village, Wutai Township, it is surrounded by six villages: Guichuan, Jilu, Ali, Jiamao, Dawu, and Hocao. The environment is serene and cool. The natural swimming pool in nearby Hocao Village is quite famous. Due to its deep mountain location, the average annual temperature is around 17–18°C, making it cool and pleasant even in the height of summer. The area features undulating peaks and enchanting scenery, perfect for travelers looking to escape the heat and enjoy the views.