Water Buffalo School Introduction
Located in Xinpuzhen, the "Water Buffalo School" is led by Principal Li Chung-Hsing, who has observed the gradual decline of the plowing culture and is dedicated to reviving it. He calls upon all children, regardless of age, to return to the countryside and engage closely with buffaloes, practicing natural education that is friendly to the land. The Water Buffalo School conducts life education through one-day experience camps and winter/summer camps. The courses include learning about various buffalo plowing tools and natural farming methods. Young herders must learn to lead buffaloes, graze them, ride them, harness them, massage them, clean the barns, prepare forage, dry dung, and interact with the buffaloes. Through contact and labor with the buffaloes, children can feel the temperament and energy of these animals, discover the mysteries of life, and appreciate the land. In addition to buffalo plowing, the curriculum at the Water Buffalo School also includes activities such as carrier pigeon messaging, nature exploration, firewood gathering, cooking outdoors, and creating incense from buffalo dung and handmade paper, enriching the rural experience. There are also plans for students to use tools and knotting techniques to build traditional climbing structures, learning teamwork and enjoying the use of traditional tools.
