(Photo credit: iliworkshop)
For years, the Taitung County Government has been dedicated to promoting local cultural crafts, with a particular emphasis on shell ginger, a valuable cultural asset of the indigenous peoples. The Paiwan people regard shell ginger (Alpinia Zerumbet) as a mystical plant, as its stalks, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds can all be utilized. Historically, it has been a favored material for indigenous weaving. From birth to death, shell ginger is an integral part of daily life—not only is it woven into mats, storage boxes, and cradles, in ancient times it was also used for casket burials.
(Photo credit: iliworkshop)
Shell ginger is highly valued for its application in everyday settings. Its leaves are often used to wrap traditional rice and millet dumplings and sweet snacks, imparting a distinct aroma. Folklore suggests that a herbal decoction brewed from shell ginger rhizomes promotes sweating, acts as a diuretic, and alleviates cold symptoms. Additionally, it is believed to help treat peptic ulcers. Indigenous communities traditionally crush the rhizomes to apply on swellings or boil them into a remedy for fevers. The white membranous outer layer of shell ginger seeds carries a pleasant fragrance and serves as the main ingredient in “Rendan” digestive beads, Chinese medicine used to soothe the digestive system and freshen the breath.
(Photo credit: MAYA TJEMAULA)
The part of shell ginger used for weaving is not its leaves but rather the leaf sheath, which connects the stalk to the leaves. Freshly harvested shell ginger leaves must be sun-dried for several days before the stalks and leaves are separated. The leaf sheaths are then manually peeled open, flattened, and rolled into circular bundles. Once dried, these leaf sheaths are ready for weaving. The primary technique used in shell ginger weaving is the warp and weft interlacing technique, ensuring that the final products are both durable and aesthetically structured.
(Photo credit: MAYA TJEMAULA)
(Photo credit: Onmywaytaitung Hostel)
In Dulan Tribal Village, 70-year-old Amis artisan Ba-Nai is regarded as a legend in shell ginger weaving. She originally worked as a hairdresser, but at the age of 50, witnessing the decline of traditional weaving, she devoted herself to learning the craft. In just three months, she mastered the techniques, and over the past 20 years, she has earned the title of “The Shell Ginger Weaver”. Her brand, Panay Modern Crafts, has become a renowned establishment along the East Coast. Her handcrafted creations, ranging from hats, backpacks, handbags, cup mats, and fruit trays, are widely adored by domestic and international visitors.
(Photo credit: Onmywaytaitung Hostel)
In 2022, Taitung’s shell ginger weaving heritage was showcased on the international stage at the Maison & Objet Paris (M&O) Design Exhibition. Featured items included picnic baskets, hats, wine holders, and placemats, all embodying Indigenous cultural characteristics while meeting modern consumer demands for eco-friendly and health-conscious living. Shell ginger products, when kept away from excessive moisture and prolonged exposure to sunlight, can last up to 10 years. Additionally, since shell ginger is a natural material, it decomposes naturally, aligning with the principles of sustainable design.
(Photo credit: Ripples of the Pacific ，photography/dondonstyle)
The Taitung County Government continues to support the preservation and innovation of shell ginger crafts. From the ATA Cultural Workshop in Taitung City to artisans in Shishan Tribal Village, efforts are being made to transform traditional techniques into diverse cultural and creative products. These crafts are available for purchase in locations such as Tiehua Village and Jialulan Handicraft Market, representing the rich cultural craftsmanship of Taitung and demonstrating how indigenous wisdom continues to thrive in the modern era.
(Photo credit: kakawasan )
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