Rebuilding an Indigenous Paradise: The Hope and Light of the Bunun Tribe

Text by Lai Peixuan | Photography by Chi Binghui, Lai Peixuan

The creation of the Bunun Tribe, which combines Indigenous art, culture, and tourism, carries the vision of preserving Indigenous culture and rebuilding a project of hope. It began when Pastor Bai Guangsheng returned to his hometown to establish the Bunun Cultural and Educational Foundation. In order to unite the gradually fading Indigenous consciousness and help the tribe members gain employment and independence, it expanded into the Bunun Tribe Leisure Farm. Here, the public can get close to Indigenous life and understand authentic Indigenous culture.

Experiencing Indigenous art and culture at the Bunun Tribe offers job opportunities for Indigenous people, while helping them reconnect with their own culture and regain confidence. At the “Tribal Theater,” they perform traditional Indigenous songs and dances, and keep alive the nearly-lost Bunun eight-part harmony. For visitors, enjoying the vibrant performances offers a chance to see the deep connection between Indigenous song and dance and nature — making it an ideal family outing activity.

Additionally, the entire park features modern iron sculptures and traditional wood and slate artworks created by Indigenous artists. These diverse creations range from practical and fun furniture to challenging large-scale landscape art that pushes the boundaries of artistic expression. They showcase the unique totemic styles and bold, unrestrained lines of Indigenous art, making the Bunun Tribe also an art creation hub.

The Bunun Tribe offers a limited number of lodging options. During the peak summer vacation season, many parents bring their children here to experience a natural lifestyle vastly different from urban living. The farm also serves a variety of hearty meals made from self-produced mountain delicacies and wild vegetables, giving guests a taste of the idyllic back-to-nature life of this mountain paradise.