Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
gendary hunting heroes of the tribe and to teach young boys how to use bows and
arrows.
Rukai Harvest Festival
One highlight of this harvest festival is watching tribal
youth play on giant swings. The festival takes place every July or August in Beinan
Township, Taitung County.
tung city, this is the site of weekly music events from mostly aboriginal performers
and a few local indie bands. Major performances are Saturday nights, while up-
and-coming groups and individuals perform during the week. Show times are Wed-
nesday to Saturday 8pm to 10pm, and 4pm to 6pm Sunday.
If you are interested in exploring aboriginal Taiwan in more depth, Cheryl Rob-
bins' books (a three-part guide to travel in aboriginal areas all over Taiwan), web-
site (
www.tribe-asia.com
) and tour company are a great place to start. There are
few, people more expert on the subject than this long-term expat who is also a cer-
tified tour guide.
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Antong Hot Springs
About 8km south of the town of Yuli off Hwy 26, Antong (Antung) Hot Springs (Āntōng
Wēnquán) have been soothing tired bodies since Japanese times. The clear alkaline wa-
ters (slightly odorous) have a temperature of 66°C and are drinkable. In fact, hotels here
use it to make coffee (the only place we know of in Taiwan that does so).
Modern hotels with a range of rooms and pools have popped up in the upper and lower
village: the latter are most enjoyably reached by bicycle from Yuli along the old train
tracks. An excellent option for spending the night is in the upper village at
New Life Hot
Springs Resort
(Niǔàohuá Wēnquán Shānzhuāng; 03-888 7333;
www.twspring.com.tw
;
dm
with IYH card NT$800, r incl breakfast from NT$2600, midweek discounts 20%)
. The resort is
more like a wood lodge, with wide decks and open halls for relaxing. Rooms are airy,
wood panelled and open to views across the Coastal Mountains. The more expensive
suites have their own private hot-spring area: not just a tub but a whole separate room.
To get to the hotel look for the English sign as you ride into the hot-spring area.
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Walami Trail
