Dahualamak Tribe Introduction
The Darumajak Tribe is the only living area of the Rukai people in Taitung County. After multiple migrations, famous Taiwanese singer Shen Wen-Cheng grew up in the Darumajak Tribe. The Kaparigwa Old Community was established over three hundred years ago. Unfortunately, its prosperity was short-lived; a major fire in 1969 destroyed many of its cultural relics. Although the layout and walls of the stone houses remain, they are incomplete. However, one can glimpse the glory of that time through the remaining artifacts. The artistic expression of the Rukai people is outstanding, with intricate weaving, basketry, and woodcarving works that showcase their innate artistic talent. The harvest festival held every July is an annual event for the Rukai people. The festival begins with the chief leading the tribesmen to pray to the guardian spirit of Darumajak. After lighting the torches, white smoke guides the guardian spirit to the ceremony site. Subsequently, the chief brings offerings like millet and betel nuts to perform rituals around the tall swing frame set up in advance, praying for safety and smoothness. The harvest festival features swinging activities, where beautifully dressed women are pulled back and forth in the air by men, showcasing the unique Rukai culture. - Short History of Darumajak Tribe - In 1650 AD, it was officially recorded in history. In 1874 AD, after the Mudanshe Incident in Hengchun, the Qing government began to manage eastern Taiwan, referring to Darumajak as "Danan Community." In 1926 AD, the Japanese government relocated Darumajak eastward to Doo and Irila, located upstream and downstream of the Danan Hydroelectric Power Plant, respectively. In 1941 AD, they moved to the current site and settled. In 1945 AD, some houses in the tribe were destroyed by flooding, leading the tribespeople to relocate and establish a small tribe called Subayang along the south bank of the Lijia Creek (near the Danan Bridge). In 1969 AD, after a major fire, Danan was rebuilt in its original location, which is today's Darumajak.
