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Lanyu, Taitung, Taiwan
The Yami people, also known as the Tao, are an Indigenous group of Taiwan whose major traditional settlements are located on Lanyu (Orchid Island), off the southeastern coast of Taiwan. With a population of around four thousand, the Tao speak the Tao language and are widely recognized as a maritime people. Fishing forms the core of their subsistence and cultural identity, most notably expressed through the Flying Fish Season, a sacred annual period during which fishing practices follow strict ritual rules and catches are shared within the community.
Tao society is traditionally patrilineal and clan-based, without a sinicized political structure. The primary social and economic unit is the fishing group, led by clan elders. The name “Yami,” meaning “people of the north,” was introduced during Japanese colonial research, whereas “Tao” is the people’s self-designation, meaning “human” in many Austronesian languages.
1. Mutual respect and friendly exchanges
Without permission, please do not enter or linger around the homes of local residents at will, do not peep or point fingers.
Tribal residents often eat in the pavilion, visitors should not disturb the residents.
2. Respect privacy, don't take photos randomly
Lanyu's traditional underground houses, Tao boarding boats, and residents in traditional costumes are all characteristic of Yami culture. They usually attract tourists' curious eyes. Please consult the other party's consent before taking pictures to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and conflict.
3. Respect rituals and strictly observe taboos
The Yami people have their own moon calendar and annual rituals. They have their own life taboos. Foreign tourists should understand and experience them with respect.
Respect the rituals: During the local traditional festivals, please respect local customs and taboos, and do not arbitrarily disturb the order.
Flying fish season: From March to June or July every year, female tourists are requested to be careful not to touch the puzzle boat, and tourists are also requested not to board the boat to take photos.
If there is a funeral in the tribe, there will be neatly arranged wooden strips on the road to indicate the way to see off. Please be careful not to make a loud noise when you cross over.
The chessboard foot is a devil tree of the Yami/Tao tribe. Tourists must not bring the branches and leaves of the chessboard foot into the homes of Lanyu residents or put them on the puzzle boat at will.
4. Cherish nature, care for the environment
Lanyu Island is rich in precious natural resources. With the Yami people's lifestyle of using natural resources for thousands of years, Lanyu Island still retains its original natural features. Please do not litter when entering Lanyu Island.
There are many precious animal and plant resources on Lanyu Island, please do not collect them at will.
According to Taitung County government regulations, it is strictly forbidden to steal the Orchid Island animals and plants, and it is forbidden to carry them out of the country, including: pearl phoenix butterfly, coconut crab, podocarpus, hairy persimmon, ivory wood, phalaenopsis, etc.
5. Stay safe and Head-ups!
Road safety: There are often deers, pigs and sheep on the road around the island. Please slow down or slow down when riding a motorcycle if the road conditions are not very familiar. There are no traffic lights on the island. Be aware of animals and pedestrians passing by the tribe.
Hiking safety: The tropical rainforests and pristine streams on the island are good places to engage in field activities. It's recommended to ask a local guide to lead or travel with you, and do not go alone.
Safety at sea: The coral reefs off the coast of Orchid Island are the most beautiful traps. There are many undercurrents in the sea area of the island. Please check your own safety equipment before entering the water.
Public health: Activities in the outdoor grassland at dusk or early morning to prevent tsutsugamushi bites. In summer, pay special attention to food and drinking water hygiene. Only Hongtou Village has a health center on the island.
Merchants on Lanyu sland use cash for transactions, and only the post office in Hongtou Village has ATM machines available.
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