Taian Chuhuo Tribal Square Introduction
Zhongxing Village in Tai'an Township has several tribes, including Chuhuo and Sima Xian. Both Chuhuo and Sima Xian tribes possess natural underground gas. The villagers utilize this year-round free energy by bringing the gas into their homes or workshops for cooking bamboo shoots, drying clothes, cooking rice, bathing, and boiling water. Due to the longer gas pipeline, residents in Sima Xian Tribe use it less frequently, while in Chuhuo Tribe, over five households utilize it easily. Chuhuo Tribe gets its name from the flames that emerge from the ground year-round, promoting the tribe's tourism. The county government, along with Indigenous council members, has sought funding from the central government to upgrade the previously simple stone display of Chuhuo Square and improve the surrounding environment. Chuhuo Square in Tai'an Township features six fire pits arranged throughout the area, designed with elements of Atayal totem art, creating a vibrant Indigenous atmosphere. The square's six fire pits "Chuhuo" blaze continuously "24/7," making it the first square in Miaoli County that can emit fire. Each year in May and June, many tourists come to "Chuhuo" to see the fireflies. Additionally, there are plans to collaborate with local churches to hold religious ceremonies and to use it for the tribal harvest festival in the future.
