Steam rises in delicate wisps from the freshly prepared Alibangbang, the prized flying fish of Orchid Island. Its silvery skin glistens under the soft glow of lantern light, revealing the tender, flaky flesh beneath. The aroma—clean, briny, kissed by the ocean breeze—fills the air, carrying whispers of the deep blue waters where it was caught.
For the Tao people, this Alibangbang is more than sustenance; it is tradition, a connection to the sea that has sustained their way of life for centuries. The fish, fried, in a soup, or gently steamed to preserve its natural sweetness, is served with a simple yet profound reverence—perhaps accompanied by a drizzle of citrus or a pinch of salt, allowing its pure essence to shine.
This is the heart of Orchid Island, known as Lanyu, a volcanic gem off Taiwan’s eastern coast, where the Tao have lived in harmony with nature for generations. Their customs, shaped by the rhythms of the ocean, are woven into every aspect of life—from the intricate craftsmanship of their wooden canoes to the annual Flying Fish Festival, a sacred ritual marking the fishing season.
Sustenance comes from both land and sea, reflecting centuries of tradition. Flying fish remains the most revered catch, with an annual flying fish festival, but the Tao also cultivate taro, a starchy root gifted during mile stones like childbirth and housewarming. Seaweed and shellfish, harvested along the island’s rocky shores, supplement daily meals, while wild bananas, yams, and tropical fruits provide natural sweetness.
Though seafood dominates, the Tao also raise pigs and goats, incorporating them into traditional feasts.
Life in Lanyu moves at a pace dictated by nature. Unlike Taiwan’s bustling urban centers, Orchid Island remains largely untouched by mass tourism, preserving its authenticity. A two hour ferry ride or a flight in a small plane brings visitors who want to experience the peaceful island.
The Tao’s underground stone houses, built to withstand typhoons, stand as architectural testaments to their ingenuity.
Their spiritual beliefs, deeply rooted in ancestral wisdom, influence every aspect of life—from food preparation to the meticulous craftsmanship of their wooden boats.
To visit Lanyu is to step into a world where time is measured by ocean tides and changing winds. Every meal, every tradition, tells a story of survival, respect, and deep connection to the island’s untamed beauty.
| For more information eng.taiwan.net.tw |
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