By Wei Ruyu, reporting
Now in its eighth year, the "South Island Ethnic Group Wedding" will hold a series of related events from April 28 to May 13 this year. This time, six couples will follow the traditional Paiwan tribal chief wedding ceremony, completing their uniquely meaningful and romantic weddings with the blessings of family, tribe members, and visitors present. The organizers also offer two packaged tour options, allowing the public to experience indigenous culture more deeply.
It is one of the rituals of the South Island Ethnic Group Wedding for the groom to carry the bride around the venue. (Photo provided by Maolin National Scenic Area Administration)
Held annually in October and rotated among the three northern Pingtung townships of Sandimen, Majia, and Wutai, the "South Island Ethnic Group Wedding" has been moved to spring this year to avoid overlapping with the Harvest Festival. It is now officially named the "2012 South Island Ethnic Group Wedding – Love Tied to Dabieshan" series of events. Through traditional indigenous weddings, visitors can enjoy a showcase of important cultural heritage including indigenous clothing, cuisine, songs, weaving, and customs. They can also stroll through the indigenous craft market, taste local delicacies, and learn about regional agricultural specialties.
Since its inception, the "South Island Ethnic Group Wedding" has witnessed over a hundred couples. This year’s registration is full. Couples interested may keep a close watch on registration information one month prior to the official start of the event. Local governments will provide free arrangements for the couple's two-day-one-night food, accommodation, and wedding details, while accompanying relatives and friends can also enjoy accommodations and meals at discounted rates.
The "swing ceremony" is a privilege reserved for Paiwan tribal chiefs and nobility during marriage, carrying special customary significance. (Photo provided by Maolin National Scenic Area Administration)
This three-week-long event presents four main themes: cultural heritage, romantic weddings, agricultural ingenuity, and classic tribes. Free shuttle services are available at Neipu Vocational High School every Saturday and Sunday, along with free parking. Additionally, there are two packaged tours priced at NT$599 for a one-day trip and NT$2,599 for a two-day trip, taking participants to attend South Island weddings and experience local crafts, culture, and lifestyles. Interested individuals can contact HuaXin, LianAn, or Huikang travel agencies. For more details on the South Island Ethnic Group Wedding series, visit the official website of the Maolin National Scenic Area Administration at www.maolin-nsa.gov.tw. At the Pingtung County Government, the Maolin National Scenic Area Administration, and the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation, you can also pick up the "2012 South Island Ethnic Group Wedding – Love Tied to Dabieshan Wedding Tourism Passport," which includes merchant coupons and lottery activities.
● Read more: The Bride Runs Away? The Paiwan Joint Wedding Features a Great Escape
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