Chulu Tribe Introduction
The origin of the name "Chulu" is often imagined as being related to "Luye," due to the presence of numerous Formosan sika deer in the area before the eastern part of Taiwan was developed. However, the name "Chulu" is actually derived from the Puyuma language term "muriburibooku," which means "a place in the mountains without wind." Chulu Village (Ulivelivek) is located along Provincial Highway 9 on the way to Hualien and is the northernmost village among the eight settlements of the Puyuma people. Due to its location adjacent to the traditional territory of the Bunun people to the north, the village has a well-established community center system for protection against invading threats. Visitors can tour the village's youth community center and learn about how the Puyuma community uses this system to safeguard their homeland. About three kilometers southwest of Chulu Village, on a hillside, is the Balang archaeological site. According to archaeology, the indigenous people of this site lived between 600 and 1400 AD. For the Puyuma people of Chulu, this site is considered sacred and an important water source for the village. The site is located at an altitude of around 600 meters, and visitors can reach it by following a natural path through the forest from the parking area. Chulu Village holds a Harvest Festival every July and a Monkey Festival and Grand Hunting Festival in December. The Harvest Festival features swing activities, which can also be seen outside the Rukai tribe. In July, visitors are welcome to participate in the unique cultural festivities of different ethnic groups at Chulu Village.【Source: Backpacker Tribe, Feng Taitung, Tribal Travel Guide】
