Famed for its breathtaking coastlines and lush mountain scenery, Donghe Township blends surfing culture, Indigenous traditions, and culinary delights. The Dulan and Jinzun coastlines are among Taiwan’s premier surfing spots, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. Dulan Tribal Village also serves as a hub of art, music, and crafts, showcasing the essence of Amis culture. A visit to Donghe wouldn’t be complete without tasting the famous “Donghe Baozi”, steamed buns stuffed with meat, vegetables or sweet fillings. Donghe Township is a paradise for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.
(Photo credit: @yu_ning0202)
From Mawuku to Donghe
Donghe was originally known as “Mawuku,” meaning “casting fishing nets” in the Amis language, vividly portraying the early Indigenous livelihood that depended on both rivers and the sea. Located on the eastern foothills of the Coastal Mountain Range, this land is blessed with abundant resources and shaped by centuries of Indigenous settlement and migration. From the serene Taiyuan Gorge to the sweeping curve of Dulan Bay, layers of history and cultural transition have woven together the unique identity of Donghe.
(Photo credit: @amstylemia)
From the Qing Dynasty onward, the Amis, Puyuma, Han settlers, and later the Japanese gradually established their presence here, leaving traces in local beliefs, languages, and daily-life traditions. During the Japanese era, the Dulan Village Office laid the foundation for today’s township administration. After World War II, the area was renamed Donghe Township, taking its name from the lower reaches of the “Donghe” (a historical name for the lower reaches of the Mawuku River)—marking a new chapter for the community.
Flavors Grown Along Valleys and Sea Breezes
The local produce of Donghe Township is nurtured by the climate and terrain between the Coastal Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean. Around Taiyuan Valley, the humid air from the river valley provides ideal conditions for citrus crops such as tankan oranges, pomelos, and navel oranges, earning Donghe the name of ‘Citrus Township’. Along the coast and in the hilly areas, sugar apples, atemoyas, and various tropical fruits are also abundant. As the seasons change, these crops reveal different flavors shaped by the local land and climate.
Beyond fruit, Donghe has also developed a food culture closely connected to its local character. With mountains on one side and the sea on the other, agricultural produce and fresh catches naturally become part of everyday meals. Many small eateries and tribal dining experiences continue the practice of cooking with seasonal ingredients. In recent years, many young returnees and small-scale farmers have begun engaging in eco-friendly farming and brand development. Through coffee, handmade foods, and local agricultural products, they are reinterpreting the everyday flavors of Donghe and allowing the stories of the local produce of this mountain-and-sea land to continue growing.
(Photo credit: @yiplay1205)
(Photo credit: The Small Village Far Far Away)
