Step into the mountain homeland of the Taitung Bunun Tribe

By Chi Bing-hui | Photos by Chi Bing-hui and Lai Pei-xuan

Taitung can be called the homeland of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples, home to seven indigenous groups within its borders. The warm and music-loving nature of these peoples has nurtured many outstanding singers in Taitung, such as Golden Melody Award winners A-Mei, Wang Hong-en, Chen Chien-nien, MATZKA, and Suming. It can be said to be Taiwan’s musical treasure trove—almost every indigenous person can spontaneously sing beautifully and melodiously.

And in Taitung, blessed with beautiful mountains and waters, there are numerous indigenous villages of all sizes. Among them, the “Bunun Tribe” built by Reverend Bai Guang-sheng of the Bunun people over 16 years can be regarded as a flagship example of successfully preserving indigenous culture. In addition to providing self-sufficiency and a good working environment for indigenous people, it also presents the most authentic tribal life to the general public. Through a wealth of traditional artworks, dance performances, eco-tours, and experiential activities, it allows the world to understand the purest charm of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples.

The Bunun Cultural and Educational Foundation, which operates the Bunun Tribe, is the first foundation established by indigenous people. It has developed the tribe from a simple open space with just a few simple houses into a well-planned park. At the same time, it has laid solid foundations in education, organic industry, nature conservation, and cultural heritage. Currently, around 80 indigenous people work here, and during summer and winter vacations, many university students who study elsewhere return to the tribe to serve as volunteers or part-time workers. They excel in song and dance performances, DIY workshops, and weaving crafts, and their passionate and dedicated attitude toward work in the tribe is particularly impressive.