2010 Wulai Makauy Tourism Festival – Discover the Legends of the Atayal

In the Atayal language, "makauy" means "mountain pepper." Growing in lush mountain forests, it is a specialty plant of Wulai and a precious plant cherished by the Atayal indigenous people for thousands of years. To welcome the vibrant summer, Wulai is hosting the "2010 Wulai Makauy Tourism Festival." From June 19 to September 30, spanning nearly three months, the event offers a variety of activities including Wulai-flavored feasts, energizing walks, and makauy eco-experiences to allow participants to experience the lifestyle of the Atayal tribes in Wulai and the scenic delights of the Wulai Scenic Area.

Makauy is a traditional seasoning used in Atayal cuisine. For the Atayal people, finding makauy and a water source in the deep mountains signifies vitality. Makauy is also a sacred remedy for reducing internal heat and regulating qi. Whether it’s to calm the excitement of warriors returning from a successful wild boar hunt or to soothe tempers during tribal disputes, a cup of makauy tea is essential. In Wulai, you can follow forest trails to find makauy, enjoy the phytoncide-rich air under the shade of trees, and search for this valuable "vitality-filled" plant.

Makauy essential oil SPA massage. Photo provided by Namiko

To promote the "2010 Wulai Makauy Tourism Festival," around 30 tourism operators in Wulai—including Chunqiu Wulai, Rihga Royal Hotel, Biyi Hot Spring Club, Sanhao Misheng Songtao Pavilion, Yunxian Grand Hotel, Julong Villa, and Pushi Lizi Hot Spring Club—have jointly launched special deals, offering up to 50% discounts on accommodations, dining, and hot spring baths.

On June 19, the official opening day of the Wulai Makauy Tourism Festival, there will be exciting main events at the Wulai Comprehensive Activity Center, including the Xilu’an Energizing Walk, Makauy Eco Experience, Atayal Dance Performances, and Tasting Sessions. These activities will guide visitors through Wulai’s forest trails, introduce them to makauy ecology, and offer makauy delicacies as well as DIY makauy essential oil soap workshops. Advance registration is required for the Xilu’an Energizing Walk and Makauy Eco Experience. Contact (02)2661-7772 ext. 3310 or sign up online.


Atayal performance in Wulai


(Video source / YouTube)

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