Connecting Sandimen and Majia townships: Pingtung’s “bridge that tells stories” to open in May

Reported by You T-Ru / Compiled by staff

Pingtung is set to unveil a “bridge that tells stories”! Following Typhoon Morakot, the Sandimen Suspension Bridge was in urgent need of repair. After evaluation and inspection at the end of 2012, the Pingtung County Government decided to rebuild the bridge, which will connect Sandi Village in Sandimen Township with Beiyeh Village in Majia Township. The new structure will feature glass-inspired designs, light art installations, and 24 storyboards along the surrounding approach roads as part of its artistic elements.


▲ Concept image of the Sandimen Suspension Bridge. (Photo / Provided by Pingtung County Government)

The new Sandimen Suspension Bridge, stretching 262 meters in length and standing an average of 45 meters above the riverbed, will not only link two tribal villages but also attract visitors and boost local tourism. It will once again position Sandimen as a gateway for the public to learn about the cultures of the Paiwan and Rukai peoples. The new bridge will span the Yilanxi River, with its foundation located 30 meters downstream from the old bridge. The north abutment will be situated along the ancient trail of Sandimen at an elevation of approximately 206 meters, while the south abutment will be near the staff dormitory of the Indigenous Cultural Park at around 164 meters above sea level.

The design of the suspension bridge incorporates numerous glass bead motifs, including granite storytelling platforms installed at both ends of the bridge and 24 storyboards placed along its sides. The artistic design was overseen by renowned Paiwan artist Sakuliu Pavavaljung. Upon its completion and scheduled opening in May next year, visitors walking into the tribal area will gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage through the moving stories depicted on the glass beads.