Xiangtianhu Pasta'ay Ceremonial Ground
Main Deities
About
Xiangtianhu (Lake Facing Heaven), nestled in a mountain basin at 738 meters elevation, is the primary ceremonial ground for the Saisiyat people's Pasta'ay (Short Spirit Ritual) — Taiwan's most mysterious and emotionally powerful indigenous ceremony. The lake, shrouded in morning mist and surrounded by mountains, creates an ethereal setting. A minor ritual is held every 2 years and a grand one every 10 years, lasting three continuous nights of solemn chanting and slow, rhythmic dancing — a ceremony of repentance, gratitude, and prayer to the spirits of the ancient ta'ay people. The Pasta'ay is a nationally designated Important Folk Custom. A museum near the site displays sacred instruments including hip bells and ceremonial flags.
History
The Pasta'ay's origins stretch back hundreds, possibly thousands of years. Legend tells of tiny but mighty ta'ay people who lived alongside the Saisiyat, teaching them farming and songs. When the ta'ay began harassing Saisiyat women, the tribe sabotaged a loquat-tree bridge leading to their settlement, causing the ta'ay to drown. Before dying, the ta'ay cursed the Saisiyat with crop failures. To appease the vengeful spirits, the Saisiyat began performing the Pasta'ay at Xiangtianhu. The ritual songs, said to have been taught by the dying ta'ay, are a precious living artifact of oral tradition. The ceremonial ground maintains its ancient ritual practices to this day.
Xiangtianhu Pasta'ay Ceremonial Ground
Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County
Visitor Info
Address
Xiangtianhu, Donghe Village, Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County
Region
Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County