Tai'an Hot Spring Tribal Square Introduction
Zhongxing Village in Tai'an Township is home to several indigenous communities, including Xidaobang, Chuhuo, and Simaxian. Both Chuhuo and Simaxian tribes possess natural underground gas, which the villagers utilize as a year-round free energy source. They draw the gas into their homes or workshops for cooking bamboo shoots, drying clothes, boiling water, bathing, and other uses. The Simaxian tribe has fewer residents due to the longer gas pipeline, while the Chuhuo tribe has more than five customers using the gas due to the convenience of the pipeline. Chuhuo is named for the fires that have been erupting from the ground for many years, promoting tourism in the tribe. The county government, along with indigenous council members, has sought funding from the central government to transform the previously rudimentary stone-piled Chuhuo Square and improve the surrounding environment. Chuhuo Square in Tai'an Township features six fire pits arranged in a scattered layout, designed to incorporate Atayal tribal totems, showcasing an indigenous atmosphere. The six fire pits in Chuhuo provide a continuous flame "all year round," making it the first square in Miaoli County that spews fire. Every year in May and June, many tourists visit Chuhuo to witness the fireflies. Additionally, it will host religious ceremonies in collaboration with local churches and serve as a venue for the tribe's Harvest Festival celebrations in the future.
