Taroko Resort Hideaway: Overnight at Buluowan Shan Yue Village & Enjoy the Thrilling Headhunting Dance

▲ Taroko youths perform the powerful "Headhunting Dance," with the village chief (operator) joining in as well.

Reported by Reporter Lin Yuling / Hualien

The unique geological landscapes of Taroko National Park in Hualien are well-known, but the passionate songs and dances of the Taroko children and youth are even more unforgettable. As soon as you step into the mountain-surrounded "Lide Buluowan Shan Yue Village," you’ll immediately sense what a "hidden paradise" feels like. On its 2.5-hectare plot, there are only 19 wooden cabins. Spending a night here lets you enjoy the exceptional natural ecological environment, breathe endless fresh air, and taste indigenous dishes like “Wild Boar Meets Eiffel Tower.” And of course, don’t miss the evening show full of applause and laughter.

▲ Surrounded by mountains, staying in the Zen-inspired wooden cabins at Shan Yue Village not only gives you access to a pristine natural environment but also an abundance of fresh air.

▲ Both adults and kids can play outdoor games on the grass, getting close to nature.

Shan Yue Village operates on the philosophy of respecting the land and giving back to the tribe, and it is also the first hotel in Taiwan to be awarded the international “Sustainable Ecology Certification.” In recent years, it has attracted many foreign visitors. Nestled on the Buluowan Plateau within Taroko National Park, it is surrounded by lush mountains with the Liwu River cutting through nearby. Across its vast land, there are only 19 cabins, totaling 37 rooms, designed with Japanese Zen aesthetics and indigenous styles. The layout resembles a tribal village settlement, and at night, only the sounds of insects accompany you in exceptional tranquility. You can sit with loved ones or friends on the cabin’s viewing platform to admire the starry sky.

▲ At night, only the sounds of insects accompany you, creating exceptional serenity. You can sit with family or friends on the cabin’s viewing platform to enjoy the brilliant starry sky.

▲ Comfortable rooms.

▲ Dinner “Wild Boar Meets Eiffel Tower” creatively blends indigenous cuisine with Western dishes, resulting in something truly unique and delicious.

The operator, Zheng Mingkang, jokingly refers to himself as the “village chief.” Aside from him and one manager, over 30 other staff members are all Taroko people, making the promotion of Taroko indigenous culture a key highlight of Shan Yue Village.

After dinner each night, the village chief playfully threatens everyone with a “complete blackout at 8 PM!” leaving only the bonfire at the performance venue lit, encouraging guests to head over for the show. In case of rain, there's an indoor stage. This is the highlight of Shan Yue Village — employees and local children all take part in the performances, blending Taroko traditional culture, music, and dance with entertainment to deliver a refreshing and spectacular show. For instance, the fiercely energetic “Headhunting Dance” replaces the gory act of beheading with fake dolls, earning continuous applause and laughter from the audience.

Although the evening show is free, guests are welcome to give tips as appreciation. Part of this money goes to the performers, and part is allocated to a foundation to support local indigenous people in emergencies.

▲ The village chief performs with the children, teaching them teamwork, boosting their confidence, and helping them learn skills so that Taroko traditional culture, dance, and musical instruments can be passed down.

The village chief treats every staff member and child performer like his own family. He also pays close attention to each person’s family situation, as some come from financially challenged backgrounds. Some may need help with school fees or daily necessities.

Therefore, he places great importance on character and talent development. Through performances, he hopes the children will learn teamwork, boost their confidence, and acquire useful skills — preserving Taroko traditions, dances, and instruments while also helping cover tuition. “It’s okay if you make mistakes, it’s okay if it’s not perfectly in sync, and it’s okay if you’re not smiling. What matters is sincerity and passion.”

The village chief often joins the performances himself. Their dedication and enthusiasm craft unforgettable evenings for guests, which even foreign visitors who don’t speak the language can appreciate — often resulting in prolonged applause and emotional moments.

★ Lide Buluowan Shan Yue Village
Phone: 03-8610111
Address: No. 231-1, Fushi Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County
Shan Yue Village two-day-one-night package starts from NT$1,550 per person (includes breakfast and one Hualien local specialty, minimum two people).