PUYUMA (PINUYAMAYAN)- 卑南族

Location of the Island of Taiwan in East Asia
( ontheworldmap.com )

Island of Taiwan & Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu Islands.
Also shown are:
Green Island (Lu Dao) & Orchid Island (Lan Yu).
( cia.gov )

Administrative Divisions of Taiwan
( nouahsark.com )

Traditional geographical distribution of Highland Peoples.
Alternate spellings or names:
Taroko (Truku, Seediq); Yami (Tao)
( wikipedia . org )

Satellite image of Taiwan showing the central mountains. Compare this image with the map (above) to appreciate the geographic distribution of the Highland Peoples.
( geology . com )

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THE PUYUMA (PINUYAMAYAN) PEOPLE – 卑南族

  • The Puyuma (also spelled Pinuyumayan or P’uyuma) people are one of the recognized Indigenous groups of Taiwan. They are primarily located in the southeastern part of the island, mostly in Taitung County. Here’s a detailed overview:
  • Population and Distribution
    The Puyuma are relatively small in population compared with some other Indigenous groups in Taiwan, with around 9,000–10,000 people.
    They mainly live in Taitung City, Chishang Township, and Beinan Township.
    Their settlements are often along rivers and in coastal areas, which historically influenced their livelihood and culture.
  • Language
    The Puyuma speak the Puyuma language, which belongs to the Austronesian language family.
    The language has several dialects, including Kopi, Tjari, and Pinuyumayan proper, but it is considered endangered, with most younger generations speaking Mandarin instead.
    Efforts are being made to revive and teach the language in schools and cultural programs.
  • Society and Culture
    The Puyuma traditionally had a tribal social structure, with clans (or lineages) playing a key role in governance and social cohesion.
    Warrior culture: Historically, Puyuma men were known as skilled warriors and headhunters before Taiwan came under Qing and later Japanese rule.
    Ceremonial life: Rituals and festivals remain central to their identity. For example:
    Kinara-an or Night Ceremony – a ritual involving prayers and offerings for community well-being.
    Harvest festivals – celebrating agricultural and fishing cycles.
  • Economy
    Traditionally, the Puyuma relied on farming, fishing, and hunting.
    Rice cultivation is particularly important, as well as sweet potatoes and taro.
    Today, many Puyuma people work in modern industries, but traditional practices are maintained during festivals and ceremonies.
  • Arts and Crafts
    Weaving: Puyuma women are known for intricate weaving patterns used in traditional clothing and ceremonial attire.
    Music and dance: Traditional songs and dances are often performed during festivals. These performances help preserve oral history and cultural memory.

    Modern Challenges
    Language loss: Younger generations are increasingly fluent in Mandarin rather than Puyuma.
    Cultural preservation: Efforts are ongoing through cultural centers, language courses, and tourism projects.
    Land and rights issues: Like other Indigenous groups in Taiwan, Puyuma communities face challenges related to land rights and development pressures.
  • Notable Facts
    The Puyuma have been featured in Taiwanese media and documentaries highlighting Indigenous traditions and contemporary life.
    They are part of Taiwan’s broader Austronesian heritage, which connects them culturally to other Indigenous peoples in the Philippines, Malaysia, and the Pacific Islands.

  • EASY SEARCH FOR MORE LINKS ! . . . . .

  • scholar.google.com – The Puyuma (Pinuyamayan) People – 卑南族 @ Google Scholar
  • youtube.com – The Puyuma (Pinuyamayan) People – 卑南族 @ You Tube . com
  • images.google.com – The Puyuma (Pinuyamayan) People – 卑南族 @ Google Images

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LATEST PAGE UPDATE: Decembet 28 , 2025 .
最後一次更新時間為:  2025 / 12 / 28 .

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