Image source：lienyuan lee / via Wikimedia Commons / licensed under CC BY 3.0

Unlocking the Witch’s Secret: Meet the Original Inhabitants of Beitou

Did you know that the name “Beitou” originated from the indigenous Ketagalan word “Patauw,” which translates to “witch”? Centuries ago, the mysterious, perpetual steam rising from the valley led the indigenous people to believe it was the mystical dwelling of witches.

Located just across the street from our resort, the Ketagalan Culture Center is Taiwan’s very first cultural center dedicated to preserving and showcasing the heritage of the Pingpu (lowland) indigenous peoples. Moving away from traditional, stiff museum displays, the center uses vibrant contemporary art, traditional costumes, ancestral artifacts, and interactive multimedia to tell the stories of Taiwan’s 16 officially recognized indigenous tribes and Pingpu clans. It’s an engaging, culturally immersive stop that adds historical depth to your hot spring getaway.

Getting There: Just a 1 to 2-minute walk from our resort. (Located directly across the street, right next to Beitou Park).

Highlights: Discovering the “witch” history of Beitou, viewing traditional and contemporary indigenous art, and browsing the cultural gift shop.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00 – 17:00 (Closed on Mondays and national holidays. Free admission).