Daru Mak Tribal Village Introduction
The Darumak Tribe is the only living area of the Rukai people in Taitung County. After several migrations, famous Taiwanese singer Shen Wen-cheng was born and grew up in the Darumak Tribe. The Kapariva Old Community was established over three hundred years ago. Unfortunately, a great fire in 1969 burned most of the original artifacts. Currently, the layout and wall structure of the stone houses still exist, though incomplete, but remnants of artifacts provide a glimpse into the glory of that time. The Rukai people's artistic expressions are outstanding, with delicate and vivid works in weaving, basketry, and wood carving, showcasing their innate artistic talent. The Harvest Festival held in July each year is the annual grand event of the Rukai people. At the beginning of the festival, the chief leads the tribe members to pray to the guardian deity of Darumak, lighting torches to guide the guardian deity to the altar with swirling white smoke. Following this, the chief brings offerings such as millet and betel nuts to the towering swings set up in advance for worship, praying for peace and smoothness. The Harvest Festival includes swing activities, with elegantly dressed women being pulled back and forth in the air by men, showcasing the unique Rukai culture. - A brief history of the Darumak Tribe - 1650: Officially recorded in history. 1874: After the Mudan Incident in Hengchun, the Qing government began to manage Eastern Taiwan, referring to Darumak as "Danan Community." 1926: The Japanese government moved Darumak east to Doo and Irila, which are located above and below the Danan Hydropower Plant. 1941: Moved to its current location and settled. 1945: Some houses in the village were destroyed by flooding, prompting residents nearby to migrate to the southern bank of the Lijia River, establishing a small community in Subayang (near Danan Bridge). 1969: After experiencing a major fire, Danan was rebuilt on the same site, now known as Darumak.