Warriors Return in Triumph After Headhunting – The Sanxia Museum Revives Indigenous Ceremonies

By MOOK Travel & Living Network, Reported by Chen Guanxin

 

Taiwan’s indigenous cultures are rich and diverse. Through the passage of generations, they have passed down myths, legends, and beliefs about their origins via songs, dances, and rituals. From now until February 24, 2013, the Sanxia Museum is presenting the intangible cultural heritage special exhibition “Origins & Lineage,” featuring cultural assets designated or registered under Taiwan’s Cultural Heritage Preservation Act. These include artifacts and process descriptions related to various tribal ceremonies, such as the Tsou people’s “Homecoming War Ceremony” held after a successful headhunting expedition. The exhibition offers the public a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s indigenous intangible cultural heritage.

The focus of the exhibition in the first special exhibition room is on the fascinating ceremonial activities of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples. Centered around the theme of “intangible cultural heritage,” the displays cover various tribal ceremonies such as the Amis people’s “Harvest Festival” from the Hengchun Harbor Tribe, the Tsou people’s “Homecoming War Ceremony” from the Tufuye and Tapangu communities, and the Paiwan people’s “Great Hunting Festival” from the Nanwang Tribe. These include many complex rituals and events—for example, the Homecoming War Ceremony is held by the Tsou people upon the triumphant return of warriors after a headhunting expedition. The ceremony is divided into segments such as the God Welcoming Ritual, Unity Ritual, and God Sending-off Ritual. Behind these unique ceremonies may lie captivating legends or embody the indigenous peoples’ philosophies about life and nature.

 

Additionally, at 3:00 PM on November 4 and January 1, 2013, the Sanxia Museum lecture hall will host performances by the New Century Culture & Art Troupe, featuring Amis war dances, Paiwan shield and garland dances, and more. During the event period, millet experience activities will be held every Saturday and Sunday, where participants can learn about the indigenous connection to millet through lifestyle talks and millet wine brewing. Attendees can choose to take home either millet wine or a millet pack after the activity. Three sessions are held each day, with a limit of 20 people per session. The fee is NT$60 per person, and registration is on-site. Event website: www.ich-taiwan.com.tw.

 

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