Seediq Hot Spings

The movie ��Seediq Bale�� has recently brought much awareness to the Seediq tribe and its culture. Practically just about anything Seediq these days is a topic of interest, including the hot springs in which they used to soak.

Li Ji-tian,Seediq Expert:
The Seediq lived in Renai Township. Nantou has the highest hot spring density in the country, and many are here in Renai. We have carbonic acid springs here.

Indigenous people liked to live near the hot springs. After coming back from a hunting trip, they can jump right in for a bath. It��s just really convenient.

Following a nice hot bath is a tasty meal made from very simple ingredients.

Li Ji-tian,Seediq Expert:
Food in those days was very simple. They ate whatever that the rivers and mountains provided.

If they caught a bore, they��d trade it with people at the bottom of the mountain for salt, and salt was the only seasoning they had. At that time, there was no refrigerator either, so when they caught a bore, they��d salt it to preserve it. That��s why there is a lot of salted bore in their cuisine, and also shrimp and freshwater fish.

During the Japanese occupation, the Seediq decided to fight and to take back their dignity and sacred hunting grounds. One day, Mona Rudao, a Seediq chief launched a brutal attack.

After a second incident, there were less than 300 Seediq tribespeople left, and all of whom were then relocated to an internment camp.

If you��re looking for a bit of history and culture to go with a hot spring trip, Nantou��s Renai Township will not disappoint.