Yehliu Old Village Introduction
The Tao people refer to "Yehliu" as Ivalino, which means saddle vine. It is said that the ancestor of Yehliu was originally from Batan Island in the Philippines. He and his companions crossed the sea to Orchid Island and married a widow. After marriage, the widow abandoned her two children from a previous marriage and returned to Batan Island with her husband, where she gave birth to two sons. Not long after, a famine broke out on the island, forcing the family to relocate back to Orchid Island. Initially, they sought refuge with the wife's father but were kicked out. The couple and their children wandered without a home and eventually arrived at the southeastern coast, which was uninhabited at the time, establishing what is now Yehliu Village in the wilderness. The traditional houses of Orchid Island have developed as a response to the hot and windy climate, characterized by a half-cave dwelling style. Generally, it includes three parts: the underground main house, workroom, and porch. The main house, also known as the "underground house," is built 1 to 2 meters below ground, keeping warm in winter, cool in summer, and providing excellent insulation. It offers shelter from typhoons, northeast monsoons, and earthquakes, making it beloved by the elderly in Yehliu Village, who are reluctant to convert it into a modern residential building, thus preserving traditional architecture and making Yehliu Village the most well-preserved example of underground houses. When visiting the old village, one must be aware that traditional underground houses still house elderly residents who may not welcome unauthorized visits or photography. It is best to stay at a nearby homestay the night before the visit, where a villager from Yehliu can personally guide visitors through their home. Such strict restrictions exist because the Tao people (Yami people) have clear hierarchical distinctions based on age and kinship. Even local individuals who intrude without permission may be driven away by the elderly. Visitors should exercise caution and respect the local residents' way of life while traveling! More information on travel precautions for Orchid Island.