A traditional sacred site of the tribe, Xiangtian Lake carries a rich history of the Saisiyat culture. It is said that several centuries ago, this area was once a lake. The ancestors, gazing at the sky while observing the lake, named it “Xiangtian Lake” (meaning “Towards the Sky Lake”). The Saisiyat tribe’s important “Basda’ai Festival,” held once every ten years, and the smaller festival held every two years, take place at Xiangtian Lake, giving the site profound historical and cultural significance.
Nanzhuang’s economy was historically driven by camphor, coal, tea, and forestry. However, with changes in the government’s industrial and economic policies after 1970, these industries gradually declined and eventually faded. Starting in 1990, eco-tourism began to emerge, becoming a popular destination for domestic leisure travel. As a result, the tourism industry flourished, with visitors flocking in during weekends and holidays. Nanzhuang is committed to creating a high-quality tourism atmosphere, allowing visitors to relax and unwind from the stresses of daily life. We look forward to welcoming friends who appreciate the charm of the international Cittaslow town of Nanzhuang.
Nanzhuang Township is located in the northeastern part of Miaoli County, covering an area of 165 square kilometers. It is a rural area that integrates diverse natural and cultural elements. The countryside, mountains, streams, and lakes come together with the cultures of the Saisiyat, Atayal, Hakka, Minnan, and new residents. Historically, the residents lived in harmony with nature, developing agricultural, forestry, and mining cultures. Today, except for mining, agriculture and forestry continue to thrive in Nanzhuang. Thanks to its diverse industries, cultural heritage, and rich natural environment, Nanzhuang has developed a unique tourism industry.
In terms of eco-tourism, there are various hiking trails such as the Jiali Mountain Trail, Lion’s Head Mountain Trail, Little Dong River Trail, Xiangtian Lake Trail, Hengpingbei Trail, Penglai Creek Fish Protection Trail, and the 42nd Spring Natural Ecology Trail. These trails offer scenic views ranging from low-altitude terrestrial ecosystems to mid-altitude forest ecosystems. The area features rich resources, including farmland, broadleaf forests, artificial forests, primeval forests, and water ecosystems such as wild streams, spring sources, Xiangtian Lake, and wetlands. Whether you want to engage in mountain climbing, hiking, or leisurely ecological walks, Nanzhuang offers something for all types of visitors.
In terms of cultural tourism, the cultures of the Saisiyat, Atayal, Hakka, Minnan, and new residents are reflected in various parts of Nanzhuang. This includes the Saisiyat Tribal Museum, Shibi Dyeing and Weaving Arts Park, Lion’s Head Mountain Scenic Area, Nanzhuang Old Street, Baguali Aboriginal Tribe, Xiangtian Lake Saisiyat Tribe, and Shibi and Luchang Tribes. Visitors can experience the local architecture, tools, beliefs, cuisine, and the integration of these cultural practices with the natural environment, where different ethnic groups coexist in equality and diversity.
The township adheres to the “Cittaslow” philosophy, which emphasizes slowing down the pace of life while maintaining the sustainability of the local natural and cultural features. Nanzhuang is committed to continuing to create a culturally diverse environment with equal opportunities for cooperation, respecting different cultures and gender uniqueness, and building a sustainable society that benefits everyone. The township remains dedicated to realizing and promoting the Cittaslow concept.
Donghe Suspension Bridge
Located beside Donghe Elementary School in Nanzhuang, Miaoli, the Donghe Suspension Bridge spans approximately 185 meters. Initially built to facilitate students’ travel between the village and Xiangtian Lake, it was later renovated in 2013 to become a scenic viewing bridge. The bridge is adorned with indigenous motifs, adding a unique indigenous flair to the structure. Standing on the bridge, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Shibi Gorge and the winding beauty of the creek, making it a must-see destination for a leisurely visit in Nanzhuang.
Walo Industrial Culture Museum
“Walo,” meaning “honey” in the Saisiyat language, symbolizes a place of happiness and sweetness. The Walo Industrial Culture Museum was originally the old Donghe Police Substation. In order to preserve its historical significance and cultural value, it was transformed into the museum, showcasing village history and indigenous craft culture. To help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the unique cultural features of the Slow City, the museum now also offers a selection of handicrafts and local agricultural products for sale. Travelers visiting here can not only experience the distinct historical charm of Nanzhuang but are also encouraged to bring home indigenous cultural goods and local specialties.
Xiangtian Lake Scenic Area
Saisiyat Folklore and Cultural Museum
The Saisiyat Folklore and Cultural Museum, located by the tranquil Xiangtian Lake, is an important site for preserving the Saisiyat culture. The museum houses a collection of Saisiyat bamboo weavings, ramie textiles, indigenous artwork, and early fishing and farming tools used by the Saisiyat people, carrying the mission of preserving and passing on the Saisiyat culture.
Gagaouan Cultural Park
Gagaouan Cultural Park is located in the Saisiyat tribe in Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County. The name “Gagaouan” comes from the Saisiyat language of the Baguali tribe, meaning “a place where the red camphor tree (a type of hardwood) grows.” The park features traditional Saisiyat architecture restored by the tribe’s members using bamboo decorations, alongside artworks by local artists that incorporate ethnic totem designs. It offers guided tours, rattan weaving DIY activities, and experiences such as making mountain rice cakes, allowing visitors to experience the unique culture of the Saisiyat people.
Penglai Creek Natural Ecological Park
Penglai Creek in Nanzhuang Township is the first river in Miaoli County to be designated for conservation with a closed-off creek policy. The water is clear, and the area is rich in natural ecological resources, making it a famous ecological tourism destination in Taiwan. Starting in 2001, the Miaoli County Government implemented a creek closure policy to allow the creek to rest, which in turn restored its vibrant natural landscape and ecology. Furthermore, with the joint efforts of the government and local residents, Penglai Creek was awarded the “Second National Charming Rural and Urban Awards – Quality Natural Ecological Landscape Award” by the Ministry of the Interior’s Construction and Planning Agency in 2002.
Shitou Mountain Hiking Trail
Shitou Mountain is located at the junction of Nanzhuang Township in Miaoli County, Sanwan Township, and Emei Township in Hsinchu. The main peak stands at an elevation of 492 meters and offers picturesque scenery. The mountain is named after its unique shape resembling a lion’s head. In 2001, the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications designated Shitou Mountain, Lishan, and Bagua Mountain as part of the “San Mountain National Scenic Area.” Shitou Mountain not only boasts natural wonders but is also one of Taiwan’s renowned Buddhist sacred sites.
The “Quanhuatang” and “Yuguang Temple” on the Shitou Mountain Hiking Trail are considered the founding temples of the mountain. Quanhuatang is built into the mountain, utilizing natural caves as part of its structure, adorned with intricate stone carvings, wood carvings, and colorful paintings, blending nature and cultural heritage. Yuguang Temple is the highest temple on Shitou Mountain, situated near the summit. The “Wangyue Pavilion,” located at the county boundary between Hsinchu and Miaoli, was originally the “Gaoyang Pavilion” during the Japanese era.
Strolling along the Shitou Mountain Hiking Trail, visitors can witness the majestic temple architecture, purify the soul, and slow down to fully experience the cleansing power of nature, embodying the essence of the Cittaslow spirit.
Agricultural and specialty products
The primary industry in Nanzhuang Township is agriculture, with the main crops changing over time. In the past, rice was the primary crop, but later, crops such as bamboo shoots, shiitake mushrooms, high-altitude vegetables, papayas, and persimmons became more prominent. In recent years, recreational agriculture has gradually gained popularity. As for the fishing industry, due to its inland location, there are only a few fish farms that raise high-altitude species like trout.