Chain of Atayal

Chain of Atayal: Revitalization and Maintenance of Scenic Spots along Provincial Highway No. 8

The site is located at Guguan area of Provincial Highway No. 8 in Taichung City, Taiwan. Surrounded by mountains and adjacent to Dajia River, it presents a diverse natural landscape blending cloud-covered countryside with water and land. The area is rich in hiking trails, attracting tourists for hiking and summer retreats. This road section features the Taiwanese indigenous "Atayal" tribe, with several Atayal communities residing along the highway, showcasing indigenous cultural characteristics.

Three areas between the 17.6k and 20k marks along the highway, originally irregular spaces or temporary storage sites for disaster debris, were reconsidered for spatial repositioning and revitalized after the highway situation had stabilized. The renovation of these spaces incorporates traditional Atayal architecture and craftsmanship, improvement of tourist attractions, and also enhances the safety of elementary school commutes. Through continuous maintenance, these efforts not only increase environmental resilience and mitigate traces of historical disasters but also integrate the spaces with the natural ecosystem. They have become cultural spots for exploring the mountain ecology and learning story of Atayal tribe along Provincial Highway No. 8. Through the development of individual spots, the highway has transformed into a beautiful and sustainable "Chain of Atayal".