Wuluku Ancient Fort Introduction
During the Japanese colonial period, the Japanese government forcefully relocated the scattered settlements of the Bunun people living in the mountains to designated areas for centralized management and seized their hunting rifles and ammunition. In order to defend their homeland, the Bunun people rose in revolt, resisting Japanese oppression through guerrilla tactics, leaving behind many heroic tales. Among these, the "Wulu Incident" is the most representative. During the Russo-Japanese War (1903), a giant cannon seized from Russia was transported to Taiwan and positioned on a high point in the Wulu village to force the Bunun people to surrender. After World War II, Japan surrendered unconditionally, and this century-old cannon was not returned to Japan. Today, the ancient cannon platform is located in a park behind Wulu Elementary School, which was once a place where the Japanese imprisoned criminals. Notably, at the entrance is a stone tablet inscribed with "Namu Amida Buddha" from the Showa era, said to be dedicated to the resting souls of the brave Bunun warriors. Visitors can ascend the stone steps on the hillside to reach the vantage point – the Wulu Cannon Platform. Two hundred-year-old ancient cannons overlook the sacred hunting grounds of the Bunun people. The area behind the cannon platform has been transformed into a pavilion, while the other cannon originally located at Motian has now become a maintenance station for the highway bureau. The base of the cannon platform remains intact, allowing visitors to imagine the power of the cannons, as well as the brutality of the Japanese colonial regime in suppressing the Bunun indigenous people. Tourists can come here to witness the historical evidence of Japanese oppression while also feeling the glorious symbol of the Bunun people's courageous resistance against Japanese rule. On weekends, a visit to the Wulu Ancient Cannon Park is worthwhile; not only can you witness historical relics, but you can also enjoy the nearby Nanheng Forest, with its lush greenery and picturesque scenery, making it a lovely spot for a day of relaxation, hiking, or picnicking – a place definitely worth visiting.
