Chulu Ranch Introduction
The origin of the name "Chulu" is often imagined by many to be related to "Luye," as in the past, when the eastern region was still undeveloped, Luye was named due to the herds of Formosan sika deer. However, the name "Chulu" is actually derived from the Puyuma language word "muriburibooku," which means "a windless place in the mountains." The Chulu village, Ulivelivek, is located along Provincial Highway 9 towards Hualien and is the northernmost village among the eight Puyuma communities. Given its geographical position, with the Bunun tribe's traditional territory to the north, the community has developed a highly organized meeting system to fend off threats from invaders. Here, visitors can tour the community's youth association building and learn from local guides about how the Puyuma people use the association system to protect their homeland. About three kilometers southwest of Chulu village, there is a site known as the Balun site, which, according to archaeological findings, was inhabited by the ancestors from around 600 to 1400 AD. For the Puyuma of Chulu, this site is considered a sacred place and an important water source for the village. The site is located on a hillside at an altitude of approximately 600 meters, and visitors can reach it by following a natural path through the forest after parking their vehicle. Chulu village hosts a harvest festival in July and a monkey festival and grand hunting festival in December. During the harvest festival, visitors can experience swinging activities, which is one of the few places outside of the Rukai tribe where this can be seen. In July each year, visitors can participate in the festivities of Chulu village and experience the diverse cultural celebrations of different tribes. 【Source: Tribal Backpacker, Feng Taitung, Tribal Travel Guide】
