Lanyu: The Last Frontier of Indigenous Culture

Lanyu (Orchid Island) is unique. It is not exactly "Taiwanese." It is the home of the Tao people, an indigenous Austronesian tribe more closely related to Filipinos than Han Chinese. It is wild, volcanic, and fiercely protected by its locals.

The Flying Fish Festival

The Tao culture revolves around the Flying Fish (Ali bang bang).

• The Season: February to June.
• The Taboos: During this time, you cannot fish for anything else. Women cannot touch the fishing boats (Tatala).
• The Dish: The fish is dried and smoked. It tastes salty, smoky, and tough like jerky. Best eaten with taro.

Why Go?

It is a pain to get to. You have to take a tiny plane or a vomit-inducing ferry ride from Taitung. But that is why it is special.

• No 7-11s (Wait, one opened): The locals fought hard against chain stores to protect their traditional grocery shops. A 7-11 finally opened, but the resistance spirit remains.
• The Goats: They are everywhere. On the cliffs, on the roads, on the cars. They are the true owners of the island.
• Underground Houses: Built partially underground to survive typhoons. You must be invited by a local to enter one.

Respect the culture, slow down, and embrace the "Orchid Island time."

If Lanyu feels too remote, consider the closer Green Island Scooter Loop, which also offers world-class diving and unique saltwater hot springs.

This is not a theme park. It is a living community.

• Do NOT touch the canoes.
• Do NOT take photos of elders without asking.
• DO say "Ayoy" (Thank you).