We decided to visit Wutai during the last two weeks of October after learning that it would become more difficult to access the area starting from November 2020. Wutai Waterfall was the main attraction we wanted to see. However, it wasn't easy to reach the waterfall as there was a section where we needed to climb down while holding onto a rope, which was impossible for us with our 2.5-year-old child. Nonetheless, we were still able to see the waterfall from a higher vantage point.
We had planned to meet my husband's coworker and his family in the nearby village, but they had to cancel their visit because their child wasn't feeling well. We proceeded to visit the waterfall and then explored the mountain village. The aboriginal village had a distinct feel, almost like being in a different part of Taiwan. I admired the houses adorned with stones and we indulged in trying various local delicacies such as Magao (mountain pepper) ice cream, sausages, and BBQ meat, all of which tasted delicious. I also had a chance to try XiaoMiJiu (Millet Wine), which I found to be more enjoyable than the ones I had in Ita Thao in Nantou, as it had a milder sourness to it.
We also came across an elderly woman selling handmade decorations made from animal parts such as bones, teeth, tails, and even feet. Some of the buildings in the village were also adorned with animal skulls. Unfortunately, it wasn't cherry season, which I imagine would be a beautiful time to visit. Although I don't think we will return to Wutai again, as I prefer to explore places on my own without following a guided tour.
Wutai Township, located in the northeastern part of Pingtung, is one of the eight mountain towns in the region. It has a small population of around 3.3 thousand people and a low population density of about 12 people per square kilometer. The majority of residents in the area belong to the Rukai tribe.
The township consists of six villages, with Wutai Village being the administrative center. Wutai Village is further divided into three tribes: Wutai, God Mountain (Kabalelradhane/Kabalelathane), and Guchuan/Ila (Kudrengere/Ila). Wutai is the largest tribe in the township and is known for its complete public facilities and rich tourism resources. Yanban Alley and the King of Sakura are two famous landscapes in Wutai Township that attract many tourists. Yanban Alley is home to various styles of slate homestays and traditional craft workshops.
The agricultural area in Wutai is divided into the tropical zone (labelabe) and the frigid zone (drekai) due to the different geographical environment. The tropical zone is primarily used for cultivating cereals such as millet, corn, sorghum, tree peas, and peanuts. The frigid zone is dedicated to crops such as taro, sweet potatoes, and red quinoa. Hunting also plays a significant role in the economic life of the tribe, with each tribe having designated hunting grounds.
Tribal sacrifices and festivals hold great cultural significance for the tribe and play a vital role in their lives. These events are accompanied by activities and traditional dance celebrations. The tribe also has both the Presbyterian Church and the Sabbath Church, and its members are believers. Church activities serve as an important means of social education within the tribe, promoting a positive social atmosphere.
One of the traditional ceremonies observed by the Rukai tribe is the harvest festival, known as "tangidrakakalane," which takes place on August 15th in the Chinese calendar. During this festival, activities are organized to express gratitude to God for the bountiful harvest of crops and to pray for peace.
Wutai Church was established on September 15, 1950. The preacher Lin Zhengguang, who was stationed at the Haocha Church, began gathering temporarily at Mr. Tang Shuiming's home in Wutai to preach in 1949. The number of converts increased significantly during this time. On October 1, the church was officially named "Wutai Presbyterian Church," with Ms. Lin Zhengguang appointed as the presiding minister. When a proper church building was not available, Mr. Tang Shuiming, the village leader, generously offered his house as a meeting place for regular worship services.
In 1949, a devout servant named Mr. Du Jinsheng donated land (the current site of the church) for the construction of a new church. Ground was broken on February 4 of the same year, and the construction was completed on September 4, culminating in a dedication ceremony.
On December 20, 1991, the groundbreaking for the second church construction project took place. This new church was constructed using modern building materials such as steel bars, cement, and red bricks. After two and a half years, the construction was completed on July 20.
