I. Key Points and Objectives

This activity was held in the traditional cultural setting of the Rukai Tribe’s Jiamu Village, where students were guided to immerse themselves directly in the tribal environment. Through this hands-on experience, they gained a deeper understanding of local culture and traditional crafts. With personal instruction from tribal elders and skilled artisans, students learned about the historical context of the Rukai people, including their clothing culture, traditional songs and dances, and culinary practices. Through music, dance, and craft-based activities, participants were able to appreciate the cultural values and meanings embedded within these traditions. The program not only provided an opportunity to strengthen ethnic identity, but also allowed students to explore potential career paths related to traditional crafts. Overall, this learning experience fostered cultural literacy and vocational skills, promoted intercultural exchange, and reinforced a sense of responsibility and mission toward the preservation and transmission of Indigenous cultures.

II. Activity Features and Implementation

In this activity, instructors from Jiamu Village—Xu Ren-hui, Ke Xin-xiong, Ba Xiao-ting, and Ke Zheng-guang, among others—led students in gaining an in-depth understanding of the tribe’s history and the events surrounding Typhoon Morakot. They shared how community members worked together to protect their homeland and preserve their cultural heritage, engaging in detailed discussions of the experience. A Q&A session further strengthened students’ understanding of tribal culture and the spirit of cultural transmission.

In addition, tribal elders personally guided students in learning traditional songs and dances, carefully explaining the cultural meanings behind each melody and movement. Through this process, students developed a deeper appreciation of the Rukai people’s emphasis on etiquette and proper conduct. Elders also taught students how to prepare the traditional Rukai dish *abai* and create floral headpieces by hand, allowing participants to recreate traditional craftsmanship in practice. This hands-on experience enhanced students’ sense of cultural identity and their understanding of the importance of cultural preservation and inheritance.

III. Activity Highlights

Group Photo

Introduction to the History of Jiamu Village

Music and Dance Practice

Traditional Food Preparation

Learning Headpiece Weaving

Teacher-Student Q&A Session