The "Austronesian Wedding" tribal cultural experience is authentically presented under the swing.

By Wei Ruyu, reporting

Now in its eighth year, the "Austronesian Wedding" will hold a series of related events from April 28 to May 13 this year. This time, six couples will follow the traditional Paiwan tribal chief wedding ceremony, completing a uniquely meaningful romantic wedding with the blessings of family, tribal members, and visitors present. The organizers also offer two package tour options, allowing the public to more deeply experience indigenous culture.

The "Austronesian Wedding," held every October and rotated among Pingtung’s northern townships of Sandimen, Majia, and Wutai, has been moved to spring this year to avoid overlapping with the Harvest Festival. It is now named the "2012 Austronesian Wedding – Love Tied to Dawu Mountain" series of events. Through traditional indigenous weddings, visitors can enjoy a showcase of important cultural heritage including indigenous clothing, cuisine, songs, weaving, and customs. They can also stroll through indigenous craft markets, taste local delicacies, and learn about regional agricultural specialties.

Since its inception, the "Austronesian Wedding" event has witnessed over a hundred couples. This year’s registration is full, but interested couples can stay tuned for registration information one month before the official start of the event. Local governments will provide free arrangements for the couple’s two-day-one-night food, accommodation, and wedding details. Accompanying relatives and friends can also enjoy food and lodging at discounted rates.

This three-week-long event is presented around four major themes: cultural heritage, romantic weddings, rural craftsmanship, and classic tribes. Free shuttle services are available on Saturdays and Sundays at Neipu Vocational High School, along with free parking. Additionally, there are package tours priced at NT$599 for a one-day trip and NT$2,599 for a two-day trip, taking participants to attend Austronesian weddings and experience local crafts, culture, and lifestyle. Interested individuals can contact Hua Hsin, Lian An, or Huikang travel agencies. Details about the Austronesian Wedding series can be found on the official website of the Maolin National Scenic Area Administration at www.maolin-nsa.gov.tw. Visitors can also pick up the "2012 Austronesian Wedding – Love Tied to Dawu Mountain Wedding Tourism Passport" at Pingtung County Government, Maolin National Scenic Area Administration, and the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications. The passport includes merchant coupons and raffle activities.

● Extended Reading: The Bride Runs Away – A Joint Paiwan Wedding Features a Chase by the Groom

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