Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Inside the thatched-roof houses are exhibition halls with displays on the culture and
history of the Tsou, as well as shops, restaurants and tea-tasting rooms. Outside are verd-
ant tea plantations, paved walkways and an outdoor theatre that holds evening perform-
ances on weekends.
To get there, turn right at the Km61 mark on Hwy 18.
THE TSOU & THE MAYASVI
The Tsou, an aboriginal group living mainly in Alishan, used to be fierce warriors
who regarded the hunting of enemies' heads as a sign of bravery and heroism. But
this practice was discontinued during the Japanese period, and many other Tsou
traditions and customs were phased out when the group converted to Christianity
in the 1940s. However, the Mayasvi, a warring ceremony, has survived up to this
day, remaining a very important Tsou tradition that is used to thank the gods and
ancestral spirits for their protection. A number of rituals are performed, including a
procession led by the tribe's chief, a pig sacrifice and chanting to welcome the deit-
ies. The finale is an ambulatory ritual to send off the gods.
Mayasvi is considered a very solemn ritual. Visitors are allowed to take photos
but they're reminded to not interfere with the smooth running of the proceedings
in any way. Also, a respectful distance has to be kept from the Kuba and nearby
trees that the locals consider sacred. After the ritual is performed, there's singing
and dancing at night, which visitors are welcome to join in.
The ceremony used to be held several times a year; now it's usually held on 15
February, alternating between the Kuba (tribal meeting hall) in Dabang and Tefuye
Villages.
CHANGHUA & YUNLIN COUNTIES
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Changhua
04 / POP 236,463
Changhua City (Zhānghuà), the capital and political heart of Changhua County, has usu-
ally been thought of as a gateway to the old town of Lukang, but there are some treats in
the town itself, including stately old temples, a giant hilltop Buddha and a rare fan-
shaped train garage that nestles a half-dozen old steam engines.
