A Harvest Celebration in Ceroh: The Iconic Feast Returns to Taiwan’s East Longitudinal Valley-East Longitudinal Valley National Scenic Area

The East Longitudinal Valley National Scenic Area Headquarters, Tourism Administration, MOTC (hereinafter the Valley Headquarters) continues its long-standing commitment to Indigenous community tourism through its signature event series, “Taste of Native Cuisines, The Journey to Tribes”. Now in its ninth year, the series embraces “The Red Honor Roll” as its 2026 theme, celebrating the most treasured cultural experiences and culinary traditions developed by participating Indigenous communities over the years.

Among the highlights is the much-loved “Footprints in the Rice Fields under the Moon” in the Ceroh Community of Yuli Township, Hualien County. Scheduled for Saturday, October 24, the event will take place amid golden rice fields, offering visitors an immersive celebration of the autumn harvest. Its enthusiastic reception reflects the success of years of efforts to develop community-based tourism, promote cultural interpretation, and encourage environmentally responsible travel, further highlighting the appeal of meaningful travel experiences in Taiwan’s East Longitudinal Valley.

Located along the Xiuguluan River, the Ceroh Community is deeply connected to its fertile land and agricultural heritage. The local Ceroh Mipaliw team, formed by farmers and young community members, carries forward the Amis tradition of Mipaliw, a system of mutual assistance through shared labor. Guided by respect for their culture and land, the team emphasizes sustainable practices throughout the journey from cultivation to consumption. By integrating environmental education with Indigenous cultural experiences, Ceroh has become a well-known destination for community-based tourism in southern Hualien.

According to the Valley Headquarters, the enduring popularity of Ceroh’s Footprints in the Rice Fields under the Moon among domestic and international visitors lies in the community’s ability to weave its spirit of cooperation and mutual care into an authentic dining experience.

Set within the community’s iconic giant footprint-shaped rice paddy, the feast showcases the “Three Treasures of Ceroh”: rice, arrowroot (Alida), and locally grown Kingtol bamboo shoots. Guests can savor a variety of distinctive dishes, from aromatic grilled snail skewers to the comforting “Granny’s Magic Soup.” This year also marks the return of the visually striking “Taiwan Rice,” a signature dish that celebrates the region’s agricultural diversity. Each creation reflects the community’s deep respect for the land and generations of culinary knowledge.

Beyond the farm-to-table feast, Ceroh transforms everyday agricultural practices into engaging hands-on cultural experiences. Visitors can create colorful rice art by layering locally grown red rice, purple rice, millet, brown rice, and white rice into intricate patterns.

Another distinctive activity introduces Alida (arrowroot), a traditional crop valued for its nutritional and practical uses. Through an interactive papermaking workshop, visitors learn to transform arrowroot fibers into beautifully textured handmade paper, creating a personal keepsake that captures the agricultural heritage and cultural memories of the East Longitudinal Valley.

Tsung-Min Hsu, Director of the Valley Headquarters, emphasized the vision behind the program:

“Over the past nine years, Taste of Native Cuisines, The Journey to Tribes has remained committed to the philosophy of ‘One Exhibition, One Meal, One Day.’ We have worked closely with indigenous communities to explore their unique cultural identities and transform everyday traditions, ancestral knowledge, and ways of life into thoughtfully designed experiences with international appeal.

“This year’s theme, ‘The Red Honor Roll,’ celebrates the time-honored traditions and signature experiences that communities have carefully preserved and refined over generations. Ceroh’s strong community bonds and commitment to environmental sustainability serve as an inspiring example of local revitalization and immersive cultural tourism. Through these experiences, we hope to show the world that Taiwan’s East Longitudinal Valley offers not only breathtaking scenery but also an irreplaceable depth of living cultural heritage.”

the Valley Headquarters further noted that the October 24 Footprints in the Rice Fields under the Moon has already sold out due to limited seating and overwhelming demand. However, the warmth and hospitality of the Ceroh Community can be experienced throughout the year.

Visitors are encouraged to explore other cultural tours and activities offered by local community partners and discover Ceroh’s distinctive agricultural products, including naturally grown colorful rice and arrowroot powder.

The 2026 Taste of Native Cuisines, The Journey to Tribes series will continue through late November, with upcoming events hosted by the Tafalong, Ciyakang, Dapu, and Kamcing communities. Each destination will present its own treasured recipes, signature dishes, and exclusive cultural experiences, offering travelers a deeper appreciation of the diverse Indigenous cultures of eastern Taiwan.

Travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters and Indigenous culinary experiences are warmly invited to reserve their places early and embark on an unforgettable autumn journey through the East Longitudinal Valley, guided by the spirit of The Red Honor Roll.

For more information about upcoming events and year-round community tours, please visit the official East Longitudinal Valley Tour website or follow the East Longitudinal Valley National Scenic Area Headquarters on Facebook.

🔗 Official Website 👈

Facebook: Search for “縱谷原遊會” (East Longitudinal Valley Tour).