Taiwan’s Sika Deer Capital: Nantou’s “Deer God Festival” Kicks Off on March 4

By Wei Ruyu, compiled and reported

Nantou is the birthplace of sika deer (native species) development in Taiwan, with nearly 7,000 deer being raised — the highest number in the country (accounting for about 35.52%). To express gratitude for the economic benefits brought by the deer, the local area holds an annual “Deer God Festival.” This year’s event is scheduled for March 4 and 5 (Sunday), from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Shimen Viewing Platform in Jiufen’ershan Earthquake Memorial Park, Nanxiang Village, Guoxing Township, as well as at Guoxing Station in Fugui Village, Guoxing Township.

The county government’s Agriculture Department stated that the Deer God Festival activities include: the Deer God Dance, a hiking stamp rally at Jiufen’ershan to exchange for raffle tickets, deer antler medicinal pork rib soup, deer antler oil rice, and other delicacies for tasting. There will also be street performer shows, parent-child DIY experiences, and exhibitions and sales of agricultural specialties such as strawberries, loquats, and coffee. Additionally, at the square next to Fungnong Farm (multi-function center), there will be photo exhibits of the Deer God Festival, displays and sales of deer antler products and agricultural specialties, located near Guanshi Deer Farm, the Jiufen’ershan Memorial Monument in Nanxiang Village, Minghu Temple, and the Shimen Viewing Platform in Nanxiang Village.

● Read more: Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Nantou – A Blend of Taiwanese and Japanese Charm

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