Written/Compiled and Reported by Wei Ruyu
With the first anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake approaching, the renowned Japanese NGO NGOEarth, in appreciation of the prompt aid and warm support from the people of Taiwan following the disaster, has turned its gratitude into action by organizing an event in Taiwan called "Pure Land Cleansing." The event is set to kick off with the "Indigenous Pure Land Sowing Ceremony" in Nan'ao Township, Yilan County, on March 10.
The leader of NGOEarth’s "Pure Land Masked Squad" stated that they hope to inspire travelers in Taiwan to take part in the "Indigenous Pure Land Sowing Ceremony" from March 10 to March 31. By dedicating one to two days in Nan’ao to labor such as sowing and transplanting rice seedlings, they aim to give back to Taiwan for its support during Japan’s recovery efforts over the past year. This initiative also seeks to encourage more people to join the movement toward natural farming, clean food, and pristine land in Taiwan. International visitors can engage in volunteer holidays or work-exchange stays—working as farming interns in the fields while enjoying immersive, destination-based travel. Taiwanese residents interested in joining are also welcome to sign up.
On the day of the event, participants can choose to experience two types of sowing activities: millet fields (located in Jin Yue Tribe) and rice paddies (located in Nan’ao Natural Fields), getting a firsthand feel for the rewards of sowing and transplanting. (Photo provided by the International Section, Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications)
On the day of the event, actor and pastor Lin Ching-Tai, who starred in the film "Seediq Bale," will lead children from Jin Yue Elementary School who previously performed at the Green Expo, using traditional Atayal songs and dances to bless the participants of the "Indigenous Pure Land Sowing Ceremony" and the land cultivated through natural farming methods. A traditional "Indigenous Farmer’s Lunchbox" will also be served at noon, giving everyone a taste of how farmers enjoy their lunch after a day of working the fields. Chen Changjiang, head of Nan’ao Natural Fields, said that participants in the one-day rice planting activity of the "Indigenous Pure Land Sowing Ceremony" will work in the fields for six hours and will be provided with free lunch and dinner, as well as bicycle rentals.
For registration, please contact the organizer: Super Energy Information, Miss Chen Ziying. Phone: 02-27775707, E-Mail: jp21doris47@gmail.com.
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