Tongpu Ryukyuan Tombs Introduction
The Tongpu Ryukyu People's Cemetery, also known as the Ryukyu Domain Cemetery, was established in 1871 (the 10th year of the Qing Tongzhi era). That year, two ships headed for Naha to pay tribute encountered a typhoon on their return journey, and a few days later, the ships ran aground in the Bay of Bayao in Hengchun. A total of 66 crew members landed to seek shelter, but unwittingly intruded into indigenous territory. Due to the language barrier, a severe conflict occurred with the local Paiwan people, resulting in the deaths of 54 Ryukyu individuals, who were later buried in Tongpu Village. Initially, there was no monument when the Ryukyu People's Cemetery was established. In 1874, after Japanese forces claimed the residents had been harmed, they landed at Pingtung's Gaosiful Society, Mudan Society, and Nuying Society, engaging in fierce battles with indigenous people (historically known as the Mudan Incident). Following this, a tombstone was erected for the "Fifty-Four Ryukyu Domain People" at the cemetery, making it the earliest monument left behind by the Japanese in Taiwan. During the Japanese colonial period in Taiwan, regular funding was allocated for maintenance work, and Okinawan historians even came to Taiwan to promote the restoration of the tomb. As a result, even after hundreds of years, the cemetery maintains its complete appearance, leaving behind an indelible historical relic. Although the appearance of the Ryukyu Domain Cemetery has viewing value, the cultural connotations it embodies are even more profound. In the past, the indigenous people practiced headhunting culture, so the victims buried in the cemetery, despite their names and descendants being known, were buried without heads. This historical tragedy not only leaves behind regrets of bloodshed but also allows future generations to witness a rare cultural heritage from that era.
