When people think about Taiwan, they often picture Taipei 101, bubble tea, or night markets.
But there’s so much more to this beautiful island—especially when it comes to the first people (Taiwan aborigines) who lived here. Indigenous Taiwan is a hidden gem waiting to be explored, offering a side of the country that many travelers have yet to discover.
Discover Taiwan’s aboriginal tribes with us. See Wulai day tour from Taipei, and 3 Days Sun Moon Lake and Alishan Tour.
Home to 16 officially recognized tribes, indigenous Taiwan communities each have their own unique language, customs, music, clothing, and rituals. From the rhythmic dances of the Amis tribe to the intricate weaving of the Atayal, these vibrant cultures are deeply connected to the island’s forests, rivers, and mountains. Many of their stories are passed down through oral traditions, song, and ceremonies that continue to thrive in both modern villages and remote highland regions.
Today, travelers can experience indigenous Taiwan firsthand—whether it’s joining a millet harvest festival, tasting traditional cuisine cooked in bamboo, or learning about the deep spiritual connection between the tribes and their natural environment.
It’s an eye-opening journey that goes beyond the usual tourist path and invites you to see Taiwan through its most ancient and authentic lens.
Who Are the Indigenous Taiwan People?
The Brief History of Indigenous Taiwan Peoples:
They are the indigenous inhabitants of Taiwan, previously called Ilha Formosa, who have lived there for more than 8,000 years before the first arrival of the Han Chinese in the 17th century. The Taiwanese aborigines are Austronesian people who are both ethnically and linguistically related to the peoples of the Marshall Islands, the Philippines, and other Polynesian groups.
The name “Han” originates from the Han dynasty, a powerful period in Chinese history that helped shape the nation’s identity and left a lasting legacy in politics, art, and culture. While the Han are spread across China without being tied to a specific region, their presence has helped unify the country through a shared language and national identity.
This emphasis on unity was especially promoted after the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, when the government sought to create a cohesive national image centered around Han ideals. Historically, although China was first unified under the Qin dynasty in 221 BC, it was the Han dynasty (202 BC–220 AD) that truly defined the early essence of Chinese civilization.
Later, the Tang dynasty (618–907 AD) became a symbol of China’s golden age, so influential that many overseas Chinatowns are still referred to as “Tangren Jie” or “Street of the Tang People.” The Han people’s long and rich history continues to play a central role in shaping China’s past, present, and future.
Read more about the history of Taiwan.
The indigenous Taiwan people are the island’s original inhabitants. They were here long before the Han Chinese began arriving from mainland China hundreds of years ago. Anthropologists believe that the ancestors of Taiwan’s indigenous people came to the island thousands of years ago, possibly from Southeast Asia or the Pacific Islands.
This makes Taiwan a key part of the Austronesian migration story—a group of seafaring people who spread across the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Throughout Taiwan’s complicated history, a variety of tribes have been gradually homogenized and assimilated by Chinese culture and the cultures of previous colonial powers, most notably the Dutch and other Western Christian missionary groups. As a result, their unique cultures and languages are being lost. (Read more: BBC: Tribal Culture survives in Taiwan)
How Many Indigenous Taiwan Tribes Are There?
Today, the Taiwanese government officially recognizes 16 indigenous Taiwan tribes. These are:
1. Amis
2. Atayal
3. Paiwan
4. Bunun
5. Rukai
6. Puyuma
7. Tsou
8. Saisiyat
9. Yami (or Tao)
10. Thao
11. Kavalan
12. Truku
13. Sakizaya
14. Seediq
15. Hla’alua
16. Kanakanavu
Each tribe has its own language, customs, clothing, music, and beliefs. Some tribes live in the mountains, while others live along the east coast or on outlying islands like Lanyu (Orchid Island).
Where Do They Live?
Most indigenous Taiwan communities are located in the central and eastern parts of Taiwan, especially in the mountains and along the coast. The east coast counties of Hualien and Taitung have large indigenous populations, and the small island of Lanyu is home to the Yami (Tao) people.
Even though some indigenous people now live in cities, many still return to their villages for special festivals or to reconnect with their roots. Read more about Taiwan Temple Festival Explained: The Qingshan Temple Celebration in Bangka.
| Amis 阿美族 | 194,000 | Hualien & Taitung |
| Atayal 泰雅族 | 83,000 | New Taipei, Hualien, Hsinchu & Nantou |
| Bunun 布農族 | 54,000 | Nantou, Kaohsiung & east Taiwan |
| Hla’alua 拉阿魯哇族 | less than 400 | inland of Kaohsiung |
| Kanakanavu 卡那卡那富族 | 550 | inland of Kaohsiung |
| Kavalan 噶瑪蘭族 | 1,300 | Hualien & Yilan |
| Paiwan 排灣族 | 93,000 | Sandimen & Taitung |
| Pinuyumayan 卑南族 | 12,800 | Taitung |
| Rukai 魯凱族 | 12,400 | Wutai & Taitung |
| Saisiyat 賽夏族 | 6,200 | Hsinchu & Miaoli |
| Sakizaya 撒奇萊雅族 | less than 700 | Hualien |
| Sediq 賽德克族 | 8,100 | Nantou |
| Thao 邵族 | less than 800 | Sun Moon Lake |
| Truku 太魯閣族 | 28,000 | Taroko Gorge |
| Tsou 鄒族 | 7,000 | Alishan |
| Tao (Yami) 達悟族 (雅美族) | 4,300 | Orchid Island |
Languages and Challenges
The tribes of indigenous Taiwan each have their own languages, which are part of the Austronesian language family—the same family that includes languages spoken in the Philippines, Indonesia, and even Madagascar.
However, many of these languages are now endangered. In the past, indigenous people were not allowed to speak their native languages in school. Today, efforts are being made to protect and teach these languages to younger generations, but it’s still a big challenge.
Culture and Traditions
Indigenous Taiwan is known for its strong connection to nature, respect for ancestors, and colorful celebrations. Try our culture tour: 6-Hour Taipei in Taiwan & Pineapple Cake DIY workshop, and Tickets to National Palace Museum & Taipei City Private Tour in 6-Hour.
Here are a few key traditions and customs:
1. Weaving and Clothing
Traditional clothing is very important in indigenous culture. Each tribe has its own patterns and colors. For example, the Atayal are known for red and black woven cloth, while the Paiwan are famous for their detailed embroidery.
Women often pass down weaving skills from mother to daughter. These clothes are worn during festivals, ceremonies, and weddings.
If you are visiting Taipei city, and you would like to try qipao, traditional Taiwanese clothing. Join our custom Taipei private city tour, our private driver-guide would take you to Dihua Street to experience qipao.
2. Tattoos
Some tribes, such as the Atayal and Truku, used to wear facial tattoos as signs of maturity or bravery. A person had to pass certain tests—like hunting or weaving—before getting tattooed. Though the practice is rare today, it’s an important part of their history.
3. Music and Dance
Indigenous music in Taiwan often includes chanting, drumming, and traditional instruments like bamboo flutes. Singing and dancing are common during ceremonies, especially harvest festivals.
A famous example is the Amis Harvest Festival, where villagers dress in traditional clothing, dance in circles, and give thanks for the year’s crops.
4. Beliefs and Nature
Many indigenous tribes believe that spirits live in rivers, mountains, and animals. Nature is not just scenery—it’s part of daily life and deeply respected. Rituals are often performed to honor the spirits and ask for protection or blessings.
Famous Indigenous Festivals
If you want to experience indigenous Taiwan, visiting during a tribal festival is a great idea! Contact us for your customized private indigenous Taiwan tour. These events are full of energy, color, and meaning.
Here are a few you should know:
Amis Harvest Festival (Ilisin)
Held every summer, this is the largest festival for the Amis people. Villagers come together to celebrate the harvest with songs, dances, and a lot of traditional food. It’s a time to honor ancestors, enjoy the year’s hard work, and teach younger people about tribal customs.
Seediq Warrior Rituals
The Seediq people, known from the famous movie Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale, have a proud warrior tradition. Their rituals involve storytelling, ceremonial dances, and honoring the brave.
Flying Fish Festival (Yami/Tao Tribe)
On Lanyu Island, the Tao people have a unique culture built around fishing. The Flying Fish Festival celebrates the start of fishing season, with strict rules and spiritual meaning. It’s one of the most unique events in Taiwan. Read more about Flying Fish Season (Orchid Island, March–June) in Places To Go – Taitung.
Modern Life and Identity
In recent decades, more indigenous people have moved to cities for work or education. While this brings new opportunities, it can also create identity struggles. Younger generations may lose touch with their language or customs.
But many are now trying to reconnect. Indigenous artists, musicians, and activists are proudly sharing their culture. Schools are teaching tribal languages again, and local governments are supporting cultural projects.
Taiwan also set up a government body called the Council of Indigenous Peoples, which helps promote rights, education, and welfare for indigenous communities.
Famous Indigenous People
There are many talented and inspiring figures from indigenous Taiwan. Here are just a few:
+ A-mei (Chang Hui-mei) – A famous pop singer from the Puyuma tribe, known across Asia.
+ Kao Chin Su-mei – A Seediq politician and former actress who speaks up for indigenous rights.
+ Jolin Tsai – While not indigenous herself, she often includes indigenous themes and messages in her performances, helping raise awareness.
Visiting Indigenous Areas
Travelers to Taiwan can explore many indigenous areas to learn more about these cultures. Some recommended places include:
+ Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village (Nantou) – A theme park that showcases tribal homes, dance shows, and crafts.
+ Dulan (Taitung) – A seaside village with a strong Amis community and lots of art and music.
+ Wulai (New Taipei City) – Home to the Atayal people, with hot springs, a small museum, and traditional snacks. Read more about Taiwan street food.
+ Smangus (Hsinchu County) – A hidden village of the Atayal tribe, known for eco-tourism and giant trees.
Please remember: when visiting, always be respectful. Indigenous villages are not just tourist spots—they are living communities.
Why Indigenous Taiwan Matters
Indigenous Taiwan is not just about history—it’s about now and the future. These cultures offer different ways of seeing the world, especially in their deep respect for nature, community, and the wisdom of elders.
By learning about and supporting indigenous Taiwan, we help protect these traditions for the next generation. We also remind ourselves that Taiwan is more than cities and tech—it’s also a land of ancient stories, powerful voices, and colorful cultures that continue to shine.
You can discover Taiwan by join this 5 days in Taiwan tour.
Final Thoughts
Taiwan is proud of its diversity, and the indigenous tribes are a big part of that story. Whether through music, language, festivals, or food, indigenous Taiwan invites us to look deeper, listen closely, and connect more meaningfully.
So next time you plan a trip or read about Taiwan, remember the people who have called this island home for thousands of years. Their stories are still being told—and you can be part of them.
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